22
Transmission
Automatic Gearbox
The Chrysler Torqueflite 8 Automatic Gearbox combines a torque-converter with a fully automatic 3
speed planetary gear system. For correct operation of the gearbox, it is
essential
that only the
recommended fluids are used, and that the fluid level is checked and replenished as necessary.
To prevent overheating of the transmission, the fluid is circulated through an oil cooler in the bottom
tank of the main cooling radiator.
In an emergency
If the fluid level is low, and none of the recommended fluids are available, SAE 10 engine oil may be
added. However, the gearbox should be drained and re-filled with the correct fluid as soon as possible.
Checking and Topping Up
The fluid level should be checked every 8,000 miles. When checking, the engine and transmission
should be idling and at normal operating temperature. To circulate the transmission fluid the
handbrake should be firmly applied, and, with the engine idling, each gear position selected in turn,
Neutral (N) being finally held.
The dipstick and oil filler pipe are located behind the right hand bank of cylinders. The fluid level
should be between the ‘FULL’ and ‘ADD ONE PINT’ marks, but never above the ‘FULL’ mark, when
checked in this way. If necessary, fluid should be added via the oil filler pipe. If it is necessary to check
the level when cold the level should be at, or just below, the ‘ADD ONE PINT’ mark.
Changing Transmission Fluid and Filter
Under normal driving conditions it should not be necessary to change fluid or filter but if a great deal
of towing, (or traffic work in hot weather), is done, this operation should be carried out every 32,000
miles. The following procedure should be adopted :
1)
As no direct drain plug is fitted, a large container should be placed under the gearbox
sump and the sump bolts removed.
2)
With the sump dropped, the access plate in front of the convertor housing should be
removed, revealing the drain plug for the torque convertor. This should be removed, allowing
the oil to drain out.
3)
The convertor plug should then be replaced (14 in. lbs. torque) and the access plate
bolted back.
4)
The oil filter should be removed by undoing the three screws which hold it in position.
5)
The filter should be replaced with a new one. A new gasket should be used, and the
screws tightened (28 in. lbs. torque.)
6)
Clean and replace the gearbox sump using a new gasket (150 in. lbs. torque).
7)
Fifteen pints of clean transmission fluid should be added.
The procedure for checking the level should then be followed, and any fluid necessary added to bring
the level to the full mark (approx. 2 pints).
Propeller Shaft
The one piece propeller shaft has a constant velocity joint at the forward end and a universal joint at
the rear end. The sliding spline at the forward end allows the axle some fore and aft move-ment. The
rear joint is of the normal cross and roller type.
Both joints are packed with lubricant and sealed. They should be inspected every 8,000 miles (or 6
months) for external leakage otherwise it is not necessary to relubricate at all. If the car has been
used under severe conditions (see Auto-transmission) then it should be cleaned and repacked at
32,000 miles.
If it should be necessary to remove the propeller shaft, the following procedure should be adopted :
1)
The clamps holding the universal joint to the yoke on the pinion nose should be undone.
2)
The shaft should be supported, and not allowed to hang loose.
3)
The sliding spline on the front of the forward universal joint should be disengaged from
the transmission unit.
