Transmission converter question

[1BADOLZ]

The guy I bought my olds from says he never added any fluid to the converter when he installed it.

Should I pull it out and dump some in or can I just add fluid to the transmission before I start it up for the first time and if so how much?

Its a turbo 400 from a 76 cutlass.

The motor and tranny are installed in the car.

[grumpy hvacr]

I would pull it and fill it.

"The charts below list the fluid capacities for most popular domestic automatic transmissions and a variety of torque converter diameters. Please note that the charts show the fluid capacity for a new converter. Generally a converter that has been previously run will retain some fluid. Always fill a new converter with fluid before installing into your transmission."


http://www.tciauto.com/Products/TechInfo/fluid_capacity.asp

In theory,the trans pump should fill it, but after reading this, I would not take a chance. Now, I've only helped install 2 transmissions , installed a shift kit, and done fluid/filter changes. I'm no expert on transmissions. If I'm totally full of it, sorry-I'll owe you a couple of cold ones.

Hope this helps

[dwtucker]

I have never filled the converter with oil prior to installation. Here is what I recommend:

Assuming new trans with NO oil:
1) Check the oil level with the engine running just to be sure.
2) Shut off the engine
3) Slowely add 2-4 qts.
4) Check the oil level with the engine running
repeat 2-4 until you get 4-5 qts in it
Start the engine and let it idle, check the oil level a few times to see where it is. If it still low (should be) add more 1 qrt at a time.

Figure 3-4 qts for the TC and 4 qts for the Trans to start. Go slow and let the trans move it around as it needs to. Have someone put the car in drive and check the oil level again. Let the engine and trans get to operating temp (80C) and check it once more.

Fill as needed until it is full.

Drive the car to speed and ensure it shofts to all gears. Chekc the oil again.

Be sure to do all of this on a flat surface.

Best of luck...

[MrRocket]

Before I put my converter in I added a small amount. Maybe a couple of quarts. Call a local tranny shop and ask them.

[ragz442]

Personally I've always added a quart in the converter before install, cheap insurance. You don't want to start it up dry.

[1BADOLZ]

My local trans builder says add 6 or 7 qts then check after run a bit until full.

He's been there since I was a kid and beyond over 30 years.

So I think that will be ok