DRAIN AND REFILL

The automatic transmission fluid is a long lasting type, and Mazda does not specify that it need ever be changed. However, if you have brought the truck used, driven it in water deep enough to reach the transmission, or used the truck for trailer pulling or delivery service, you may want to change the fluid and filter. It is a good idea to measure the amount of fluid drained from the transmission, and to use this as a guide when refilling. Some parts of the transmission, such as the torque converter, will not drain completely, and using the dry refill capacity listed in the Capacities chart may lead to overfilling.

1. Drive the truck until it is at normal operating temperature.
2. If a hoist is not being used, park the truck on a level surface, block the wheels, and set the parking brake. If you raise the truck on jackstands, check to see that it is reasonably level before draining the transmission.
3. There is no drain plug, so the transmission pan must be removed to drain the fluid. Carefully remove the screws from the pan and lower the pan at the corner. Allow the fluid to drain into a suitable container. After the fluid has drained, remove the pan.
4. The filter consists of a screen bolted to the lower valve body. Remove the screen attaching bolts and remove the screen. Clean it thoroughly in solvent, allow it to air dry completely, and replace it. Tightening torque for the attaching bolts is only 2.2–2.9 ft. lbs., so be careful not to overtighten them.
5. Remove the old gasket and install a new one. The pan may be cleaned with solvent, if desired. After cleaning, allow the pan to air dry thoroughly. Do not use a rag to dry it, or you risk leaving bits of lint in the pan that will clog the transmission fluid passages. When the pan is completely dry, replace it, and tighten the bolts in a circular pattern, working from the center outward. Tighten gently to 3.5–5.0 ft. lbs.
6. Refill the transmission. Fluid is added through the dipstick tube. This process is considerably easier if you have a funnel and a long tube to pour through. Add three quarts (2.8 liters) of fluid initially.
7. After adding fluid, start the engine and allow it to idle. Shift through all gear positions slowly to allow the fluid to fill all the hydraulic passages, and return the shift lever to Park. Do not race the engine.
8. Run the engine at fast idle to allow the fluid to reach operating temperature. Place the selector lever at N or P and check the fluid level. It should be above the L mark on the hot side of the dipstick. If necessary, add enough fluid to bring the level between the L and F marks. Do not overfill the transmission. Overfilling will cause foaming, fluid loss, and plate slippage.