I would like to know the fluid capacity when doing a filter change on a 1965 Skylark 2 spd automatic transmission behind a 300 cu in. My book only shows total capacity including the torque convertor. Anyone have first hand knowledge on how many quarts it will take to get it filled back up?
It shouldn't take more than 4 quarts if you use the car often. However, if it has sat idle for over a month and you didn't start it before draining the pan, you could need up to 6. Use only Dexron III fluid. The torque converter will drain slowly into the pan when the car sits. You will never get all of it out, but a lot will drain. I was able to "flush" most of the old fluid in my 64 that way. It sat all winter and I did the change before I started it one spring. Try to have enough fluid on hand. After changing the filter and putting a new gasket on, put 2 quarts in and see where it reads on the stick. Between full and add is a good start. Start the car and then check again. Fill it until it is around 1/4" below the Add mark. ATF expands quite a bit. When driven and warmed up, check again and bring it to the full mark. You may also want to consider doing a band adjustment per the chassis manual. If it has not been done before, it could be out of adjustment. Basically, it is loosten the lock nut and use and allen wrench (want to say 7/32", but use one that fits snugly) and tighten the adjuster all the way in tight. Then back off 4 turns and tighten the lock nut without the adjuster moving. You should be set, Mark
