Trying to drain my MT but found fill plug is in really awkward position. I can only access using a universal joint (bent at almost 90 degrees) and extension bar. I don't have access to a lift so can't really get and pressure on it.

 

Your over thinking. Nothing about modern cars is easy. I know I did it with a 3/8drive ratchet and an extension. Don't be a fried to get dirty and scraped knuckles.

 

i used a 3/8" breaker bar to get it loose.

 

break the fill plug loose when you can, then the drain plug. Use the reverse switch up top for filling, and keep the car level with the fill plug removed, the fluid will dribble out when full.

if you remove your air intake and your battery, you can access both plugs from up top if you can reach around the transmission

 

Thanks! I'm liking the "...remove your air intake and your battery..." idea especially if it allow the bolt to be reached without using a universal joint!

All I'd have to worry about is the radio security code! Guess I'd have to phone the Dealer for that.

Things would be super easy if I'd bought an AT 'cause as you know, they have dipsticks!

 

radio code should be inside the glovebox

 

I doubt it.




Try offset box end wrenches, like these:

Sears.com

and ratchet wrenches, like these:

https://www.acwholesalers.com/Klein-...FUVbfgodCpQASQ .

Once the fill plug is out, you'll have a lot of fun pumping the fresh fluid in. Especially with no lift and no professional garage tools. Look at Pep Boys for something like this:

 

That is how I did mine, and Im 6feet, beer gut, and fat hands lol



No need to pump at all, remove the reverse switch that is on top next to mounting bracket, and use a small tip funnel.

Screw pumping it.


Doing the reverse switch way also allows you to lower the car to the ground so its level, so that you get a perfectly accurate fill level

 

Yes! offset box end wrenches! I never thought of using them! Doh! This has fired me up to have another go!

As to filling, I'll use the gravity method. Attaching some hose to a funnel and snaking the hose down through the engine compartment into the fill hole. Simple and I don't need to pump anything anywhere.

Thanks for jogging my memory!