"Ad Astra" (ad-astra)
09/04/2013 at 22:28 • Filed to: Auto Shop, DIY
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"Ad Astra" (ad-astra)
09/04/2013 at 22:28 • Filed to: Auto Shop, DIY | 2
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I just got back from changing the transmission fluid in my car at the Automotive Skills Center, which is located on the military base where I work. It was my first time to use the shop, and I was really impressed.
You might have read !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! Oppo post about how the Automotive Skills Center works. Basically, it's a fully outfitted auto shop where people with access to a military base (military and civilians) can work on their cars for a small fee. After taking a brief safety tour, you're left mostly to yourself to work on your car using the shop's tools. Of course, if you have a question about something, the shop staff will help you out.
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I decided that changing my transmission fluid would be a good first use of the shop. A couple weekends ago, I went to my parents' house (I live in an apartment) and attempted to change the fluid with the car on jack stands, but I couldn't get enough leverage laying on my back to remove the fill plug. Shortly after that frustrating failure, I read about the auto shop and went to take the safety tour. Tonight, I simply drove up, showed one of the staff members my card (pictured above), and was directed to a lift bay. For $5/hour, I had access to the lift and more tools than I am ever likely to own. The fluid change was a breeze.
I have very little automotive repair/maintenance experience and was wary of looking like a moron in front of other more experienced car enthusiasts, but the Auto Skills Center had a really relaxed atmosphere, and I didn't feel out of place. If you have access to one of these shops, I recommend you visit it. I'm planning to go back soon to do some other repairs.
bhardoin
> Ad Astra
09/04/2013 at 22:33 |
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I'd love to have access to a garage like that. Freaking sweet.
Makoyouidiot
> bhardoin
09/04/2013 at 22:36 |
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No kidding...almost makes me want to lose 100 lbs, pay 30 grand to fix my knee, and join the military....
bob262
> Ad Astra
09/04/2013 at 22:51 |
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Just so you are aware, changing transmission fluid is not a real normal thing to accomplish. Reason: There is usually a small metal mesh filter within the transmission housing that tends to capture any fine metal particles during normal operation. Changing the transmission fluid without removing and cleaning (or replacing) the related filter can (sometimes) allow metal particles to enter the transmission and possibly cause damage; however, I would guess that you have not caused any problems. Perhaps you should check your owner's manual or maybe ask a repair-person at your local vehicle-related transmission shop.
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Ad Astra
> bob262
09/04/2013 at 23:08 |
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Thanks for the advice. The fluid that BMW uses in e36 transmissions is supposedly good for the lifetime of the car, but I've read on numerous forums (admittedly, not necessarily the best source for advice) that the fluid should be changed. Those who changed it generally reported better shifting feel, especially in high mileage vehicles, and I haven't read about any negative impacts on the transmission's lifetime after a fluid change. I followed a repair guide when doing the change, and it didn't mention a filter. I could be imagining it, but shifts seemed to be a bit smoother afterward. I guess I'll have to wait and see if there are any negative effects in the future.