How to Change the Transmission Fluid in a 1990 Lincoln Town Car

Changing the transmission fluid in your 1990 Lincoln Town Car is a crucial maintenance task that can help prolong the life of your transmission and prevent costly repairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it yourself⁚

What You’ll Need⁚

• New transmission fluid (Dexron III or equivalent)
• Transmission fluid drain pan
• Torque wrench
• 17mm wrench or socket
• Funnel
• Rag or shop towels
• Jack and jack stands (optional)

Safety Precautions⁚

• Always work on a level surface.
• Use jack stands for safety if lifting the vehicle.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Never work under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack.
• Use caution when handling hot fluids.

Procedure⁚

1. Warm Up the Transmission⁚

Start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes to warm up the transmission fluid. This will make it easier to drain.

2. Locate the Drain Plug⁚

The transmission drain plug is located on the bottom of the transmission pan. It is usually a 17mm bolt.

3. Drain the Old Fluid⁚

Place the drain pan under the drain plug. Using a 17mm wrench or socket, loosen and remove the drain plug. Be careful as hot fluid will pour out. Allow all the fluid to drain out.

4. Remove the Transmission Pan⁚

If you want to replace the transmission pan gasket, remove the pan now. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the pan in place.

5. Clean the Pan and Magnet⁚

Clean the transmission pan thoroughly with a wire brush or a rag and some solvent. Remove any debris or metal particles from the magnet inside the pan.

6. Install New Gasket⁚

If replacing the gasket, install a new one on the pan. Ensure it is properly seated and aligned.

7. Reinstall the Transmission Pan⁚

If you removed the pan, carefully reinstall it and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening.

8. Reinstall the Drain Plug⁚

Install the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening.

9. Fill the Transmission⁚

Locate the transmission dipstick. Using a funnel, slowly pour new transmission fluid into the dipstick tube. Check the fluid level frequently and stop when it reaches the full mark on the dipstick.

10. Start the Engine⁚

Start the engine and run it for a few minutes. Check the fluid level again and add more if needed.

11. Test Drive⁚

Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure smooth shifting and proper operation. Check the fluid level again after the drive and top off if necessary.

Conclusion⁚

Changing the transmission fluid in your 1990 Lincoln Town Car is a simple maintenance task that can help keep your transmission running smoothly. By following these steps, you can extend the life of your transmission and save yourself money in the long run.

Note⁚ This article is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult your owner’s manual and refer to a qualified mechanic for any specific maintenance or repair procedures.