1987 Jeep Wrangler Manual Transmission Fluid

The 1987 Jeep Wrangler features a manual transmission that requires specific fluid types and maintenance procedures for optimal performance. Proper fluid selection, checking, and changing are essential for smooth shifting, transmission longevity, and preventing gear damage. Below are key sections covering fluid specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and safety guidelines.

1. Transmission Fluid Specifications 2. Checking Transmission Fluid Level 3. Changing Transmission Fluid 4. Recommended Fluid Types 5. Tools and Materials Needed 6. Step-by-Step Fluid Change Procedure 7. Common Symptoms of Low/Bad Fluid 8. Troubleshooting Transmission Issues 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Safety Precautions 11. Frequently Asked Questions

Transmission Fluid Specifications

The 1987 Jeep Wrangler manual transmission requires specific fluid types and capacities for proper operation.

SpecificationDetails
Transmission ModelAX-5 (4-cylinder) / AX-15 (6-cylinder)
Fluid CapacityApproximately 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters)
Fluid TypeGL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (75W-90 recommended)
Viscosity75W-90 for all-season use
Change IntervalEvery 30,000 miles or 2 years

Checking Transmission Fluid Level

Regularly check transmission fluid to ensure proper lubrication and prevent damage.

  1. Park on level surface and engage parking brake.
  2. Locate transmission fill plug on side of transmission case.
  3. Clean area around fill plug to prevent contamination.
  4. Remove fill plug - fluid should be level with bottom of plug hole.
  5. If low, add fluid until it begins to seep from fill hole.
  6. Reinstall fill plug and tighten securely.

WARNING! Check fluid when transmission is cool to avoid burns. Use proper tools to prevent stripping plugs.

Changing Transmission Fluid

Complete fluid change procedure for optimal transmission performance.

  1. Drive vehicle to warm transmission fluid for better drainage.
  2. Park on level surface and engage parking brake.
  3. Place drain pan under transmission drain plug.
  4. Remove fill plug first, then drain plug to allow complete drainage.
  5. Allow fluid to drain completely (15-20 minutes).
  6. Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer if needed.
  7. Refill with recommended fluid until level with fill hole.
  8. Reinstall fill plug and check for leaks.

CAUTION! Use jack stands if lifting vehicle; never work under vehicle supported only by jack.

Recommended Fluid Types

Tools and Materials Needed

Essential tools for transmission fluid service.

Tool/MaterialPurpose
3/8" drive ratchetFor removing drain/fill plugs
Socket set (various sizes)For plug removal (typically 3/8" or 1/2")
Fluid transfer pumpFor adding new fluid
Drain panTo catch old fluid
Jack and jack standsFor vehicle lifting and support
Gloves and safety glassesPersonal protection
Shop towelsFor cleanup
New gear oil3.5 quarts of recommended fluid
New drain plug washerIf original is damaged

Step-by-Step Fluid Change Procedure

Detailed instructions for complete fluid replacement.

  1. Gather all tools and materials before starting.
  2. Drive vehicle for 10-15 minutes to warm transmission fluid.
  3. Park on level surface, engage parking brake, and chock wheels.
  4. Safely lift vehicle and support with jack stands.
  5. Place drain pan under transmission drain plug.
  6. Remove fill plug first to ensure drainage.
  7. Remove drain plug and allow complete drainage.
  8. Inspect drained fluid for metal particles or unusual color.
  9. Clean drain plug and reinstall with new washer.
  10. Use transfer pump to add new fluid through fill hole.
  11. Continue adding until fluid begins to seep from fill hole.
  12. Reinstall fill plug and tighten to specification.
  13. Lower vehicle and test drive to check operation.

Common Symptoms of Low/Bad Fluid

Recognize signs indicating transmission fluid issues.

SymptomDescription
Difficulty shiftingHard to engage gears, grinding noises
Transmission noiseWhining or grinding sounds in neutral
Gear slippageGears pop out or disengage unexpectedly
Fluid leaksVisible fluid under transmission area
Burning smellOverheated fluid odor
Discolored fluidDark, milky, or metallic-looking fluid

Troubleshooting Transmission Issues

Common problems and solutions related to transmission fluid.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Hard shiftingLow fluid level, wrong fluid typeCheck level, use correct GL-4 fluid
Grinding gearsWorn synchronizers, low fluidCheck fluid, consider transmission repair
Transmission leaksWorn seals, loose plugsInspect seals, tighten plugs properly
Noise in neutralLow fluid, bearing wearCheck fluid level, inspect bearings
Fluid contaminationWater intrusion, metal wearChange fluid, inspect for damage

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for transmission fluid.

Safety Precautions

Important safety measures when working with transmission fluid.

  1. Always use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack.
  2. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect from fluid contact.
  3. Work in well-ventilated area to avoid fume inhalation.
  4. Allow transmission to cool before checking fluid to prevent burns.
  5. Use proper tools to avoid stripping drain/fill plugs.
  6. Dispose of used fluid properly at recycling facility.
  7. Clean spills immediately to prevent slips and environmental damage.

WARNING! Transmission fluid can be extremely hot after driving. Allow adequate cooling time before service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about 1987 Jeep Wrangler manual transmission fluid.

QuestionAnswer
Can I use GL-5 gear oil?No, GL-5 can damage synchronizers; use GL-4 only
How often should I change fluid?Every 30,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first
What if I used wrong fluid?Drain immediately and refill with correct GL-4 fluid
Can I use synthetic fluid?Yes, synthetic 75W-90 GL-4 is recommended
Where is fill plug located?On driver's side of transmission case, above drain plug
What causes fluid leaks?Worn seals, loose plugs, or damaged transmission case
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