Transmission Fluid Cooler Flow Test and Flushing: Notes

Special Tools

DT - 45096 TransFlow Cooler Flush Machine
DT - 45096 - 30 TransFlow Adapter

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

GM studies indicate that plugged or restricted transmission oil coolers and pipes cause insufficient transmission lubrication and elevated operating temperatures which can lead to premature transmission failure. Many repeat repair cases could have been prevented by following published procedures for transmission oil cooler flushing and flow checking. This procedure includes flow checking and flushing the auxiliary transmission oil cooler, if equipped.

NOTE:

Use the DT - 45096 TransFlow Cooler Flush Machine to flush and flow test the transmission oil cooler and the oil cooler pipes after the transaxle is removed for repairs or replacement. Use only GM Goodwrench DEXRON VI automatic transmission fluid in the DT - 45096 TransFlow Cooler Flush Machine. The AF50-8 uses AW - 1 automatic transmission fluid. After completing the flushing and flow test procedure, remove the residual DEXRON VI left in the oil cooler by carefully blowing out with compressed air.

If the fluid in the DT - 45096 transmission oil cooling system flush and flow test tool is different than what is used in the transmission, after performing the flush and flow test, use compressed air to blow the residual transmission fluid out of the oil cooler and lines.

Time allowance for performing the cooler flow checking and flushing procedure is included in the appropriate labor time guide operations. The service procedure steps for oil cooler flushing and flow testing are as follows: