Filling trans through sensor hole.

[CC5K]

I have a 91 KA with a manual transmission and the speedometer quit on me about a month ago and it has a slow leak around many of the switches.

I got a speed sensor, fluid, etc. to fix it...but after a couple trys (wrench and mallet) I haven't been able to get the fill plug out and I'm starting to damage it.

If I measure out the right amount of fluid before I pour it is it OK to fill the trans through one of the sensor holes (like the top switch or reverse lamp switch) or will this screw something up? They look as far up the side of the trans as the fill plug...or should I give in and see if a mechanic with some real tools can get the plug loose? I don't really want to go through taking my shifter off again...

Thanks.

[Philsnotfalling]

pull the shifter out... its sooo easy.

unscrew your knob.

pull the trim off, it just pops off.

unbolt the rubber cover. cut the zip tie.

cut the next zip ties off and pull the second rubber boot off.

use snap-ring pliers to pull the snap ring off the shifter. careful don't loose it. or the washer below it. and pull the shifter straight up.

get a funnel and stick it in the hole. fill with fluid.

reverse steps and replace zip ties or your interior will smell of gear lube.

[CC5K]

Yeah, I've had the shifter off before and it is pretty easy. I was replacing it with a B&M.

I was just thinking that since I'd already have all the switches off to re-seal the threads why not save some time and pump the fluid through there instead. I just don't know much about all the internals of a transmission and if sticking a pump hose through the top like that would damage anything vs. the normal methods (i.e. through the shifter or fill plug). I looked in the service manual and it doesn't look like anything is in the way, but Murphy's law and all...

Thanks for the reply.