How to change the Jimmy' s gear box oil

Before I attempt to do a job on the jimny I always Google 'how to...'. It's gives you a heads up of common issues that may arise. For changing gearbox oil I couldn't find a guide online like the helpful youtube video of Mlines changing the engine oil. So here are 10 easy steps for those that want to look after their gearbox, especially if like me you have an M13A vvt engine. I hope you find it helpful.

Although I have successfully changed all the oils on the Jimny I'm a diy mechanic not a professional so please consult a professional if you are unsure.

Specifiations:
M13AA Manual Gearbox Oil API GL-4 1.3 litres 75W - 80
G13BB Manual Gearbox Oil API GL-4 1.3 litres 75W - 90
(Courtesy of bigjimny.com)
Engine specifications and servicing

Things you need...

Ratchet, socket set, square 10mm drain plug key, oil drain tray, funnel, hand suction pump, oil catch container and thread lock.
Oil: Api GL-4 75w/90 (important it is gl-4 not 5 for the gearbox)

1) Warm engine up to operating temperature or after you have driven it to increase the flow of oil when you drain it. It does get warm but not as hot as engine oil. Once you have done this ensure the car is on a level surface.

2) I managed to do this without using my trolley Jack and axle stands but if you do require better access you may wish to use one. Follow the usual safety precautions when jacking a car up using the manufacturers instructions.

3) Place the tray under the gearbox and firstly undo the filler plug located above the drain plug in case you can't remove it which would be a problem if you drained the oil then cant refill it. The plug is the same as the tapered drain plug but minus the magnet ,these tend to be easy to remove unlike the filler plugs on the axles that often require heat to remove them.

4) Using the 10mm square drain plug key undo the drain plug key slowly and move the bowl into potion to catch the oil, it tends to be a foul smell so some latex gloves are recommended. Have a look at the used oil checking for anything that shouldn't be in there.

5) Whilst the oil is draining clean the plugs thoroughly making sure there is no gunk or swarf left on the magnet. If you are using a new drain plug you will notice there is thread locker already on the threads if not apply some medium strength thread locker. The tapered shape plugs the hole very well but it's best to make sure it's properly sealed to avoid leaks. If the threads are corroded clean them with a wire brush or replace them to make future regular changes easier.

6) Wipe the drain plug hole to remove gunk or swarf and replace the drain plug, if you have a torque wrench you can refer to the manual for the specific settings.

7) As access is limited use the hand pump (can be bought on ebay for less than £5) to fill the gear box back up through the top filler hole. For the M13a vvt models the bigjimny site states 1.1litres of gearbox oil.

Unlike the axles I did not fill until it started trickling out as I didn't want to put too much oil in and put pressure on any seals, once full re-fit the filler plug.

9) Wipe off any oil drips underneath, start the car and check for leaks. Take the car for a drive and again check for leaks.

10) Make sure any oil is disposed of correctly as its toxic, do this by pouring the drain tray into a suitable container being careful not spill it and dispose of it at your local recycling centre.

Now you can enjoy a smooth gearbox with slick gear changes.


jim

When i refill my box i use a funnel and a length of hose and fill it from under the bonnet, saves messing about with a pump

That's a good tip

Grrrrrr ! auto spell changed it to jimmy in the title. Mods if you could please change it so folks can find it when using search function many thanks

Another small but useful tip....before you drain out the oil make sure that you can get the fill plug out....it's a bit of a bugger turning the car upside down if it doesn't!!!!! :woohoo:

Step 3
3) Place the tray under the gearbox and firstly undo the filler plug located above the drain plug in case you can't remove it which would be a problem if you drained the oil then cant refill it. The plug is the same as the tapered drain plug but minus the magnet ,these tend to be easy to remove unlike the filler plugs on the axles that often require heat to remove - See more at: www.bigjimny.com/index.php/forum?view=to...d=7&id=58818#154131t the fill plug out....it's a bit of a bugger turning the car upside down if it doesn't!!!!! :woohoo:[/quote]

You are right Gus, and that's the sort of thing I would have done if I hadn't have read it on bigjimny first.