I have the haynes manual, and it says nothing about checking or changing transmission fluid. All it gives it the capacity. The car is a 1980 with 5 speed manual trany. Any tips on how to check the fluid?

 

Sure, toss the Haynes and download the FSM from the link in my sig line.
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Hi R-K
Only way to check is the "finger-dip" method AFAIK. There are TWO plugs on the 'box - lower is (d-uh!) the drain, upper left is filler. Car needs to be jacked up on all 4 corners to be level, remove the upper plug, fluid should be just below the drain lip. Sticking a short toothpick, etc and noting depth of insertion should give a "dipstick" level too. GREAT time to switch over to a synthetic like Redline 75-90 tranny fluid. Very popular here - others my offer other brand suggestions. NOTE!! the drain plugs are a TAPERED thread!! Do NOT keep torquing it in - it actually spreads open the threaded hole (its aluminum, remember). Firm but not over tighten. Some plumbers-tape on the threads help with the seal too-
Stu Aull
80GS
Alaska

 

thanks alot...any tips on filling it. It seems hard to do because of the position of the fill plug.

 

get some long, preferably clear hose connected to a funnel. Stick the hose in the fill hole from the engine bay. Fill it until the lube starts coming out a little. This is the easiest way for me. Don't forget lots of rags cause it gets messy if the hose slips out, that's why you need a long hose.

 

^ Excellent tip. I have not thought about doing it that way. I have always purchased those damn dispensing pumps that attach to the bottles. Problem with alot of those pumps they come apart half way thru the job. Even the better one that attaches to the gallon container is less than adequate.

 

Or take it to an oil change place. I work at 1 and we charge $20 to drain and fill a manual tranny.