How do you change the transmission filter on a Chevy S-10 pickup?

Answer 1

Let us start the answer by assuming that one is using an Automatic Transmission, or AT for short. The later model S-10's used a model of trans called the 4l60e, a 4 speed trans with overdrive, very similair to the earlier model's trans known as 700r-4. Both are physically similiar, the main difference being that the E in 4l60e stands for electronically controlled. Some vehicles came with a 3 speed trans called the T-350, but the procedure is essentially the same.

The filter removal is actually quite simple, and there is little difference in procedure between a 4wd and 2wd. First start by allowing the vehicle to warm up for several minutes, even a short drive around the block will do. This is to allow the fluid to run freely, as trans fluid has a tendency to thicken at colder temperatures, thus lengthening the time involved for draining it. The bolts holding the lower transmission pan in place should be loosened at first, but not completely removed. You may remove the front bolts if you wish, but allow several near the side and back of the pan to remain. This is because no models were equipped with a drain plug on the trans pan, so the pan will be filled with hot liquid. With an appropriate container underneath, tip the pan as much as the previously-loosened bolts will allow. The remainder of fluid in the pan will need to be dropped with the pan, so you may need a friend or helper to help you safely lower the pan. The only step left is to gently, and I stress gently, remove the filter stem from the transmission. The gentle comes in because most replacements filters have a plastic housing which is easily cracked. If the little plastic grommet on the top of the filter stays stuck in the filter shaft, a small flat-head screwdriver can be used to pop it out, making sure to be careful not to gouge the shaft entrance. The new filter should just then pop right back into place.

Always make sure to use proper bracing under a lifted vehicle, and never trust a jack alone to support a vehicle when a person is under it. Safety pays!

** THIS ANSWER LEFT OUT A CRITICAL STEP **

On some Chevy S-10 models, the transmission is secured to the cross member. The Y pipe gets in the way of allowing the pan to be removed.