Chrysler 300M 2002 Service Manual page 1347

21 - 98 TRANSAXLE
FLUID (Continued)
Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely.
If there is any doubt about its condition, drain out a
sample for a double check.
Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid—
Type 9602) when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed
red so it can be identified from other fluids used in
the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red
color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid
condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin
to look darker in color and may eventually become
brown. This is normal. ATF+4 also has a unique
odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor
and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid
condition or the need for a fluid change.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
DIFFERENTIAL SUMP
The differential sump is checked separately from
the transmission. A fill plug located on the side of the
transaxle must be removed to check fluid level. The
fluid should be within 9 mm (.375 in.) of the bottom
of the fill hole. The differential capacity is 0.95 liters
(32 ounces). Adjust if needed. Use Mopar Fuel Sav-
ing 75w-90 Petroleum Based Hypoid Gear Lubricant.
Inspect the differential area during engine oil
changes for any leaks. If leakage is present, deter-
mine the source of the leak and repair as required.
Remove the fill plug and verify the proper level.
Adjust if needed. Use Mopar
Petroleum Based Hypoid Gear Lubricant.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID/FILTER
SERVICE
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules, or the
vehicle owner's manual, for the recommended
maintenance (fluid/filter change) intervals for this
transaxle.
NOTE: The 42LE Transaxle has separate transmis-
sion and differential fluid sumps. Only fluids of the
type labeled Mopar
sion Fluid-Type 9602) should be used in the trans-
axle sump. A filter change should be made at the
time of the transmission oil change. The magnet
(on the inside of the oil pan) should also be cleaned
with a clean, dry cloth.
NOTE: If the transaxle is disassembled for any rea-
son, the fluid and filter should be changed.
Fuel Saving 75w-90
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmis-
FLUID/FILTER SERVICE (RECOMMENDED)
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist (Refer to LUBRICA-
TION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING - STANDARD
PROCEDURE). Place a drain container with a large
opening, under transaxle oil pan.
(2) Loosen pan bolts and tap the pan at one corner
to break it loose allowing fluid to drain, then remove
the oil pan.
(3) Install a new filter and o-ring on bottom of the
valve body and tighten retaining screws to 5 N·m (40
in. lbs.).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new Mopar Silicone Adhesive sealant. Tighten
oil pan bolts to 19 N·m (165 in. lbs.).
(5) Pour four quarts of Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 through the dipstick
opening.
(6) Start engine and allow to idle for at least one
minute. Then, with parking and service brakes
applied, move selector lever momentarily to each
position, ending in the park or neutral position.
(7) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 236).
(8) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180°F.).
(Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTO-
MATIC - 42LE/FLUID - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(9) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
Fig. 236 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
LH