| aka Stabby Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mead, CO Posts: 5,336 | 
if possible, try a method my friend and i used for the diff, a long clear piece of flexible tubing. you'll likely need a helper to make sure it stays in the fill out, then fill from a higher point so that it drains into the trans fill hole. a jub with a pump on it would also work, if you can find one. EDIT: as for mixing old and new, i'm not sure. it says this in my bentley manual: Quote: the automatic transmissions installed in the E36 models are normally filled with Dextron III (3) automatic transmission fluid (ATF), although alternative fluids have been installed from the factory, depending on transmission type and model year. some transmissions are filled with a special bmw "lifetime" automatic transmission fluid, which does not require periodic fluid changes.
CAUTION: mixing different types of transmission fluids will lead to transmission failure.
NOTE: the transmission lubricant installed can be found on a type plate on the side of the transmission. in addition, a sticker may be located on the fluid sump indicating the type of transmission lubricant used. if in doubt, consult an authorized bmw dealer for alternate fluid use and current information regarding transmission operating fluids.
the transmission is not equipped with a dipstick. checking the ATF level requires measuring and maintaining a specified ATF temperature during the checking procedure. the checking temperature is not fully warm or cold (the ATF sump should be approximately warm to the touch. | so it appears the biggest problem is mixing different types of fluid. check the plate on your trans to make sure what you have. i'm not sure what the lifetime ATF is that bmw uses, but you may very well need to go get some from a dealer to make sure you get the right stuff  __________________ 1996 318ti, California package, 267k miles
current mods: bilstein sports, bavauto springs, e30 m3 LCABs, solid metal ball joints, bavauto RSMs w/reinforcements, e30 3.73 LSD & halfshafts, supersprint cat-back exhaust, turner rear sway bar reinforcements, IE poly subframe & RTABs + camber/toe kits, powdercoated e36 32x front calipers, sport mirrors, H&R 28mmF/19mmR sway bars, x-brace, auto solutions SSK w/poly bushing upgrade, BMW CD43 head unit, DICE HD Radio w/iPod integration and "stealth" HD antenna, staggered style 68s, orange electronic TPMS, leather arm rest, JT Designs metal undertray
acquired and awaiting install: heated seat kit, cali top switch relo, lumbar support kit, park distance control kit, heated washer nozzle kit, m-coupe rear subframe, trailing arms, differential, and halfshafts, m-coupe front/rear brakes with master cylinder, under hood light kit, mud flaps, rear sun blind, auto-dimming rear view mirror, tilt steering wheel retrofit, apexcone 5000K HIDs with 55W ballasts
2002 X5 4.4 Sport Package, 53.5k miles
Current Mods: e46 m3 steering wheel |