Jeep Cherokee Transmission Pan: Removal Guide

Removing the transmission pan from a Jeep Cherokee can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and guidance, it is achievable. The process involves several steps, including draining the transmission fluid, removing the pan bolts, prying the pan loose, and navigating obstacles such as the crossmember and exhaust. One of the key challenges is separating the dipstick tube from the pan, which may require some force or modifications such as cutting and replacing with tubing and clamps. When removing the pan, it is important to be cautious to avoid spilling transmission fluid and to ensure that the pan is cleaned and inspected for any issues.

Removing the bolts and prying the pan loose

Before beginning, ensure you have the necessary tools, such as a flat-edge prying tool, and that you are wearing appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.

First, locate and remove the bolts securing the transmission pan in place. Depending on the model of your Jeep Cherokee, there may be multiple bolts that need to be removed. In some cases, you might need to loosen all the bolts and then leave a couple of bolts in one corner to prevent the pan from falling. This will also help control the flow of transmission fluid when you start prying the pan loose.

Once the bolts are removed, you can begin to gently pry the pan loose. Insert the flat-edge prying tool between the transmission pan and the transmission case. Work your way around the pan, gently applying leverage to break the pan seal. Be cautious not to apply excessive force, as you could damage the pan or the transmission case.

As you are prying, angle the pan downward to allow the transmission fluid to drain neatly into a suitable receptacle. This process can be messy, so it is recommended to have a large-volume drain pan or container ready to catch the fluid.

If your Jeep Cherokee's transmission fluid level dipstick is attached to the transmission pan, make sure to remove it before prying the pan loose. This will give you more room to work and prevent damage to the dipstick.

In some cases, you may encounter challenges when trying to remove the pan due to obstructions from the crossmember or exhaust. If this occurs, you may need to take additional steps such as removing the crossmember bolts and sliding it back or disconnecting the exhaust pipe at the header to create the necessary clearance.

Remember to work carefully and patiently throughout the process, as prying the transmission pan loose can be a delicate task. Always refer to your Jeep Cherokee's service manual for model-specific instructions and consult a professional mechanic if you feel uncomfortable performing this task.

Dealing with the dipstick tube

• Make sure to remove the bolt for the dipstick tube on the firewall. This will allow you to move the pan around and get it out.
• If the dipstick tube is stuck, try using some PB Blaster or another penetrating lubricant to help loosen it. You can also try heating the joint with a torch to help break it free.
• If the tube still won't come apart, you may need to unbolt the upper half of the tube from the block and remove it together with the pan. You can then separate the tube halves by heating the joint and pulling upwards, or by using a slide hammer or other tool to break them apart.
• Some people choose to cut the tube and replace it with tubing and clamps to avoid having to deal with the stuck joint in the future.
• When reassembling, make sure to replace the O-ring with a new one to ensure a proper seal.

The dipstick tube can be a challenging part of removing the transmission pan on a Jeep Cherokee, but with some patience and persistence, it can be done.

Draining the transmission fluid

First, lift your Jeep to ensure you have enough clearance to work. Place a large catch pan, rags, and cardboard under the transmission pan to catch the fluid. The pan has either 13 or 15 bolts, so remove all except one on each corner. Pry the pan down gently if it does not drop, as some fluid may come out.

Loosen the bolts on the lowest corner of the Jeep by a quarter of an inch. Remove the corner bolt, and loosen the other corner bolts, excluding the one opposite the one you removed. When the fluid flow slows, remove the bolts you loosened, and then slowly loosen the remaining bolt without removing it. When the fluid is mostly drained, hold the pan up and remove the last bolt. Lower the pan, being careful not to spill the remaining fluid inside.

Now that the pan is removed, you can inspect and clean it. There should be a round magnet in the bottom that will have very fine metal particles on it. Clean the magnet and replace it. Clean the inside and outside of the pan and set it aside.

Removing the pan from the vehicle

Removing the transmission pan from a Jeep Cherokee can be a challenging task, but with careful preparation and the right tools, it can be accomplished successfully. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove the pan from the vehicle:

Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, a large adjustable pliers, a ratchet, extensions, and a catch pan to collect the fluid. It is also important to have rags and cardboard ready to catch any spills and make clean-up easier.

Begin by jacking up the vehicle and securing it with jack stands to ensure a safe working environment. Place the catch pan under the transmission pan to collect the fluid. The next step is to remove the bolts from the pan, leaving one bolt on each corner to control the flow of fluid. Depending on the pan style, there will be 13 or 15 bolts to remove. Loosen the bolts by a quarter inch and gently pry the pan down if it does not drop. Some fluid will be released, so be prepared.

Once the fluid starts to drain, remove the corner bolt that is lowest. Then, loosen the bolts on the opposite corner, allowing more fluid to drain. When the fluid flow slows, remove the remaining bolts on that side. Finally, slowly loosen and remove the last bolt, holding the pan up to prevent spilling. Lower the pan and remove it from under the Jeep, being cautious as there will still be some fluid in it.

At this point, you can inspect and clean the pan. There should be a round magnet at the bottom, which will have fine metal particles on it. Clean the magnet and replace it. Also, clean the inside and outside of the pan thoroughly.

The next step is to remove the transmission filter, which is held on by two long Torx head screws. Remove the screws and twist the filter to release the rubber seal. Again, fluid will be released, so keep the drain pan close.

Now, you can focus on removing the transmission pan itself. Before attempting to remove the pan, make sure to take out the transmission dipstick first. Carefully lower the pan, being cautious not to bend or damage any components, such as the exhaust, driveshaft, or crossmember. There will be residual fluid in the pan, so be careful not to spill it.

In some cases, you may need to disconnect the exhaust pipe or adjust the crossmember to create enough clearance for the pan to be removed. This can be done by placing a floor jack under the transmission and lifting it slightly to remove the crossmember bolts, allowing you to slide the crossmember back. Alternatively, you can use ratchet straps to loop around the exhaust and the front axle, tightening them to move the exhaust back and create the necessary clearance.

With the necessary clearances created, you can now wiggle and twist the pan to remove it completely. This may require some force and maneuvering, but with patience and caution, it can be accomplished.

Remember to always be cautious when working with automotive fluids and to dispose of them properly at an auto supply store or a designated recycling facility.

Cleaning and reinstalling the pan

To clean and reinstall the transmission pan of a Jeep Cherokee, follow these steps:

First, remove the transmission pan by taking out all the bolts and prying it loose. If the cross member is in the way, you may need to drop it a little to create more space. Be careful not to damage any nearby components, such as the transmission fluid lines.

Once the pan is removed, clean it thoroughly. Make sure to remove all the old gasket material and debris from the pan and the sealing surface on the transmission. You can use a gasket scraper or a similar tool to carefully scrape away the old gasket material. Be sure to clean the inside of the pan as well.

After the pan is clean, inspect it for any damage, such as cracks or dents. If the pan is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Assuming the pan is in good condition, install a new gasket or sealant onto the sealing surface of the transmission, ensuring it is clean and free of debris.

Carefully position the transmission pan back into place, ensuring it is properly aligned with the gasket or sealant. Secure the pan with the appropriate bolts, tightening them to the specified torque settings.

Finally, refill the transmission with the appropriate amount and type of fluid. Check for any leaks and ensure that the dipstick is properly installed. Test the vehicle to ensure the transmission is functioning correctly.

By following these steps, you can clean and reinstall the transmission pan on your Jeep Cherokee, ensuring a proper seal and preventing leaks.

Frequently asked questions