SECTION 07: TRANSMISSION
DOB 2490-2789 | X3-45 Commuter PA1605 Maintenance Manual (Final Version – Rev.2 April 2016)
7
Transmission Fluid Operating Temperature Requirements
Fluid type
Minimum operating temperature
Celsius
Fahrenheit
TES295 -35 -31
TES389 -25 -13
CAUTION
Disregarding minimum fluid temperature limits
can result in transmission malfunction or
reduced transmission life.
NOTE
The use of an arctic preheat kit is
recommended at temperatures below -25ºF (-
32ºC). If a preheat kit is not available, the TCM
will restrict full operation until the sump
temperature is increased.
3.3.1
Importance of Proper Fluid Level
It is important that the proper fluid level be
maintained at all times because the transmission
fluid cools, lubricates, and transmits hydraulic
power. If the fluid level is too low, the converter
and clutches do not receive an adequate supply
of fluid. If fluid level is too high, the fluid can
aerate, causing the transmission to shift
erratically or overheat.
3.3.2
Keeping Fluid Clean
Oil must be handled in clean containers, fillers,
etc., to prevent foreign material from entering the
transmission. Place the dipstick on a clean
surface area while filling the transmission.
CAUTION
Containers or fillers that have been used to
handle antifreeze or engine coolant must
NEVER be used for handling transmission
fluid. Antifreeze and coolant solutions contain
ethylene glycol that, if introduced into the
transmission, can cause the clutch plates to
fail.
3.3.3 Oil
Contamination
At each oil change, examine the drained oil for
evidence of dirt or water. A nominal amount of
condensation will emulsify during operation of the
transmission. However, if there is evidence of
water; check the cooler (heat exchanger) for
other signs of leakage. This, however, may also
indicate leakage from the engine oil system.
3.3.4 Metal
Particles
Metal particles in the oil (except for minute
particles normally trapped in the oil filter) indicate
damage has occurred in the transmission. When
these particles are found in the sump, the
transmission must be disassembled and closely
inspected to find the source. Metal contamination
will require complete disassembly of the
transmission and cleaning of all internal and
external circuits, coolers, and all other areas
where the particles could lodge.
CAUTION
If excessive metal contamination has occurred,
replacement of the oil cooler and replacement
of all bearings within the transmission is
recommended.
3.3.5 Coolant
Leakage
If engine coolant leaks into the transmission oil
system, immediate action must be taken to
prevent malfunction and possible serious
damage. The transmission must be completely
disassembled, inspected, and cleaned. All traces
of the coolant contamination must be removed.
Friction clutch plates contaminated with ethylene
glycol must be replaced.
