Automatic Transaxle - Tribute Except Hybrid: Maintenance Mazda Tribute II

Lubrication

The transaxle fluid enters the lubrication circuits after flowing through the transaxle fluid cooler. The transaxle fluid filler is mounted at the front of the vehicle. When the transaxle fluid is not up to operating temperature, an internal thermal bypass valve allows the transaxle fluid to bypass the transaxle fluid cooler. When the transaxle fluid circulates through the transaxle fluid cooler, the transaxle fluid returns to the transaxle from the transaxle fluid cooler tubes through the back transaxle fluid cooler tube

The transaxle fluid enters main lubrication circuit through the transaxle case and flows through passages in the input shaft to lubricate the transaxle.

The transaxle fluid in the input shaft circuit flows from the back of the input shaft toward the front of the input shaft and passes through ports in the input shaft to lubricate the planetary gearset, clutches, final drive assembly and other components of the transaxle.

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Scheme 458

Transaxle Fluid Filter

The transaxle fluid in the sump area at the bottom of the transaxle case flows through a transaxle fluid filter to the pump assembly. The pump is bolted to the torque converter housing and is driven by the torque converter hub.

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Transaxle Fluid Level

The transaxle fluid level is checked with the transaxle at normal operating temperature between 80°C and 93°C (175°F and 200°F).

The transaxle fluid level indicator is part of the transaxle fluid filler tube located at the back of the torque converter housing.

The correct transaxle fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the transaxle fluid level indicator.

Scheme 460

TRANSMISSION FLUID DRAIN AND REFILL

Note. In order to completely clean the torque converter, this procedure needs to be carried out 3 times.

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Scheme 462

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL position it on a hoist. See «LIFTING»(ref-348626-S31954056142009112700000) .
2. Remove the transmission fluid drain plug and allow the transmission fluid to drain. NOTE: If an internal problem is suspected, drain the fluid through a paper filter. A small amount of metal or friction particles may be found from normal wear. If an excessive amount of metal or friction material is present the transaxle will need to be overhauled.
3. Install the transmission fluid drain plug. Tighten to 9 Nm {0.9 kgf.m, 80 lb-in}.
4. Fill the transaxle with clean transmission fluid.
5. Start the engine and let it run for 3 minutes. Move the range selector lever into each gear position. Repeat Steps 2 , 3 , 4 and 5 two more times. After the transmission fluid has been changed a total of 3 times, check the transmission fluid level for a final time, making sure that the transmission fluid is at the correct level.