Trans Fluid

[bigtendude]

My TH350 has been shifting rather harshly lately, so I checked the fluid level and color and smell. Level is normal, color is rusty looking, and there is no odor. The color scares the hell out of me , should it not be red or pinkish instead of rusty? Looks a little thin also. Since this truck was used for hauling 7,000lb. fifth wheel for the last two years, I was wondering if maybe the fluid is shot, even though the previous owner took exquisite care of this truck. He has upgraded trans cooler, to an external one, upgraded radiator to 3 row, installed trans temp gauge to dash. It currently runs between 160 and 180 degrees on freeway at 70mph. Should I change fluid, and how many quarts would I need? How would I get fluid in torque converter to change at same time, without having to remove trans? 350cui., TH350 trans., 235/75R/15 tires, 1978 Big Ten/Silverado 10 trim. Quadrajet carb. Hope it's not too late to do this maintenence?

[Pontiac1976]

Well It might be time for a filter & oil for the trans .
I will say 14-15 liters (quarts) but I would start to check at 10 liters (quarts) this will change a little with cooler or bigger rad, lager pans, size of Tq cov = (torque converter) .

Now have you a hoist to do this . ***If not do you mind getting dirty.
Have you ever did this before, You might want to go to a shop have them do it, at least this one.
As taking out the Tq cov you have to take the trans out .
I change the trans fluid one a year in my car and it see 5 months driving. The truck I change every 16 to 17 months

[bigtendude]

I had heard along time ago, that some vehicles Torque converters had a drain plug in them. I was just wondering out loud, if Chevy trucks may have been one of 'em?

[Pontiac1976]

I had heard along time ago, that some vehicles Torque converters had a drain plug in them. I was just wondering out loud, if Chevy trucks may have been one of 'em?

No No No ;D sorry but they do not.

If you see how they do it get a good idea how the change it." trans filter & oil .