Transmission Sampling
Why Sample Transmission Fluid?
Most modern transmissions require more oil, as it does not just lubricate and clean internal parts, it also performsn functions such as:
- Lubricate teh gears and bearings of the gear sets
- Operates as hydrulic fluid for control systems
- Controls the friction characteristics of oil immersed clutches and breaks
Transmission fluid can become contaminated with metals, solids, and moisture. Analysis of this fluid sample can identify potential problem before they get serious. Transmission problems are generally expensive and time consuming to repair. Regular oil analysis can help prevent severe repairs by detecting wear metals, contaminants, water content, acid number and nitration and many more factors that affect the health of a transmission.
Benefits of Transmission Sampling with the KP Pushbutton Sampling Valve
The KP Pushbutton is the recommended sampling valve for automatic transmissions. With the KP Pushbutton you can:
- Take an active, data-rich sample while the equipment is idling
- Significantly reduces sampling time to under a minute
- Get a sample by simply pushing a button
Image 1: KP installed on an Allison Transmission
When to Sample?
The base of any good oil analysis program is having the proper practices and procedures in place to take a representative oil sample. The sample intervals depend on the model of transmission and the type of oil used. A general rule of thumb is to take samples as following:
| Distance Driven |
10,000 km - 15,000 km (6214 miles - 9321 miles) |
| Hours of Operation |
200 Hours |
| Scheduled Services |
Every Service |
Fluid sample frequency may need to be modified due to analysis results. For example, if analysis indicates fluid viscosity has changed by 25 percent, customer should sample at a greater frequency than recommended above. Local conditions, severity of operation or duty cycle may require frequent fluid sample intervals that differ from the above recommendations. Please refer to your equipment manual.
How to Get Started:
Step 1: First, identify the brand and model of transmission used in your vehicle. Please see below for frequently recommend solutions.
| Transmission Make | Direct or Remote | Frequently Used KP Kit or Part # | |
| Allison |
Direct |
KP716UV |
Visit The Product Page |
| Voith |
Direct |
KP1215MB |
|
| ZF Ecolife |
Direct |
KP101MB9 |
|
Figure 1: Location of main pressure tap on an Allison Transmission
Step 2: If your transmission is not included in the chart above, locate the Main Pressure Port on your transmission. Use OEM support to locate this port.
Step 3: Identify the size, and type of the port. If the port is not accessible a remote access kit can be used. Checkfluid can provide further assistance for remote access kits.
Figure 2: Example of a Remote Access Kit for Transmissions
