Acura CL Axle Swap – Drain Transmission Fluid First?

[philh]

Quick question:
Getting ready to swap out the right hand (Passenger Side) axle in a 97 Acura CL.

Do I have to drain the transmission fluid before doing this?

If I don’t drain it, approximately how much fluid will leak out?

Also, any concern about using Honda remanufactured Axle assemblies vs new Honda vs after-market?

Thanks!

Topic

[Shaun_300]

If they’re like the GM’s you won’t lose more than a litre of fluid, like dreamer said just put a drain pan under the trans and top it off after the job is done.

[dreamer2355]

I would just use a drip pan under each inner stub axle as i removed them. Then top off the fluid as necessary. Eric may have a better insight on your particular vehicle with it being a Acura C8-)

I prefer to use OEM replacements and never used a aftermarket rebuilt design. The last CV Axles i replaced on a Ford Escape came from Ford.

[philh]

I just finished changing the tranny fluid when I noticed the leaking CF boot — Doing things in the wrong order.

Was curious how much would leak out when I pull the axle — don’t really want to drain of lose too much of that precious Honda ATF DW-1.

[EricTheCarGuy]

You shouldn’t loose any if your transmission fluid is filled to the proper level. BTW make sure you use Honda transmission fluid only and that you check the level with the engine off not running.

[EricTheCarGuy]

Come to think of it the process is almost identical to what is shown in this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jydxpsh13WQ

[philh]

Quoted From EricTheCarGuy:

You shouldn’t loose any if your transmission fluid is filled to the proper level. BTW make sure you use Honda transmission fluid only and that you check the level with the engine off not running.

Thanks Eric. Yes, using Honda ATF DW-1. (the new stuff).

On the video you changed the drivers side so just want to double check that I shouldn’t lose fluid when the passengers side is changed.

Also, do you have a preference when replacing Honda axles between Honda new, Honda Rebuilt, or after-market?

Thanks!

[EricTheCarGuy]

At least at the dealer where I worked there was no Honda rebuild, we just got remans from the local auto parts store. You can even find some aftermarket NEW axles that are the same price as the remans.

[Author]

Replies