x300 gearbox oil change, anything special I need to know???

[Trikeman]

Hello all Newbie here, thank you for your welcome and im very sure I will feel at home here.

I have a 1996 x300 3.2 automatic without the 'S' button, im not sure which gearbox but its very responsive and quick. Since I purchased her through a deal she was cheap (£900). Dad and I have fell in love with her but she hasn't any service history so I have changed the engine Oil and filter, airfilter, spark plugs and replaced all the front end braking system plus rear shoes. The power steering has a slight weep but it doesnt warrant replacement parts yet as the loss is insignificant at the moment.

The gearbox has been checked but its not showing any Oil on the dipstick. I havepurchased the fluid for the change but thought it best to ask owners if there is anything I should know or any tips, tricks of the trade etc. Im not a mechanic but do have a good knowledge of this stuff but I dont know everything and I dont want to make a problem solving one.

Thanks in advance, the reg it helps is N673UEC.

Vic

[KEN33Y]

In my own personal opinion Victor take it to someone who knows what the are doing. Automatic Gearbox Oil changes are not all straight forward in that of emptying the old and refilling with new. I know with my old SL500 there was a procedure that was to be followed.

You will find a list of recommended garages on the forum rather than taking it to a main dealer cannot comment on Wrexham I live at the better end of Wales down South Dai Own.

Welcome to The Jaguar Owners Club and enjoy the experience.

[Trikeman]

He Ken. Thanks for your advice. I was under the impression from what I have read that all the transmission doesnt come out because the selector and somewhere else holds some. But the majority can be dropped then you refill about 4litres.

At the moment shes fine but theres no fluid on the dipstick. Would it be better just to top it up?? Just as a stop gap until a garage can be sourced..

Thanks

Vic

[KEN33Y]

In that case then yes I would say so to ensure you are not running dry resulting in damage to the box. However, I would most certainly source a recommended garage and have it checked out asking the question to myself out loud "Why is the dip stick showing no fluid"?

[Old Peter]

Hi Victor, and welcome to the Club.

 

I used to live just down the road from you when there was a Steelworks at Shotton in which I worked.

 

Kenny has given you some very sound advice and I think you will find a good independent garage not too far away.

 

Regards,

 

Peter.

[SDSXJ6]

Hi all,

Generally one has to run through a procedure to check an automatic gearbox level. It's not just a "wipe it and dip it" job (oooo-errr). 

You would have to check the procedure, however I suspect it would be drive the vehicle til warm, then with your foot on the brake run it through all the gear positions (P to 2) twice, leaving it in park. 

Then remove and wipe dipstick, insert and check level - you may have to do this several times for a true reading as a pool of Oil tends to form at the base of the dipstick tube. I hope this helps.

 

Simon. 

[SDSXJ6]

Additional, I concur with the others - it may be best that this is left with a professional.