1999 CHEVROLET CORVETTE check transmission fluid

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HIGH TRANS TEMP (Automatic Transmission
Only): You will hear four chimes when this message
is displayed. To acknowledge this warning, press the
RESET button. After you press the RESET button,
the message will be displayed every 10 minutes until the
condition changes. If you do not press RESET,
the message remains on the display until the
condition changes.
If the transmission fluid temperature rises above
270
F (132
C) or rises rapidly, this message is
displayed. The transmission may shift gears or apply the
torque converter clutch to reduce the fluid temperature.
Driving aggressively or driving on long hills can cause
the transmission fluid temperature to be higher than
normal. If this message appears, you may continue to
drive at a slower speed. You should also monitor the
transmission fluid temperature and allow it to cool to at
least 230
F (110
C). The transmission fluid temperature
can be monitored with the GAGES button on the DIC.
See ªAutomatic Transmission Fluidº in the Index.
You should also check the engine coolant temperature.
If it is also hot, see ªEngine Overheatingº in the Index.If the HIGH TRANS TEMP message is displayed
during normal vehicle operation on flat roads,
your vehicle may need service. See your dealer for
an inspection.
SERVICE ACTIVE HANDLING: If the SERVICE
ACTIVE HNDLG message is displayed, there is a
problem with your Active Handling System and your
vehicle needs service. The instrument cluster light will
also be on and a chime will sound. When this message is
displayed, the system is not working. Adjust your
driving accordingly.
ACTIVE HANDLING: Your vehicle is equipped with
an optional computer controlled system to assist the
driver in controlling the vehicle in difficult driving
conditions. You may feel or hear the system working
and see the ACTIVE HANDLING message displayed in
the DIC. This is normal when the system is operating.

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If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you're
planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make
your trips safer and more enjoyable.

Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid
levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and
transmission. These parts can work hard on
mountain roads.

Know how to go down hills. The most important
thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the
slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go
down a steep or long hill.
CAUTION:
If you don't shift down, your brakes could get so
hot that they wouldn't work well. You would then
have poor braking or even none going down a
hill. You could crash. Shift down to let your
engine assist your brakes on a steep
downhill slope.
CAUTION:
Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the
ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to
do all the work of slowing down. They could get so
hot that they wouldn't work well. You would then
have poor braking or even none going down a hill.
You could crash. Always have your engine running
and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down
to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine
and transmission, and you can climb the hill better.

Stay in your own lane when driving on two
-lane
roads in hills or mountains. Don't swing wide or cut
across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let
you stay in your own lane.

As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could be
something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.

You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of
special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or
no
-passing zones, a falling rocks area or winding
roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action.

6-
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Section 6 Service and Appearance Care
Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information,
and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your
vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
6
-2 Service
6
-3 Fuel
6
-6 Filling Your Tank
6
-9 Checking Things Under the Hood
6
-12 Engine Oil
6
-16 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
6
-18 Automatic Transmission Fluid
6
-19 Manual Transmission Fluid
6
-20 Hydraulic Clutch
6
-21 Rear Axle
6
-22 Surge Tank Pressure Cap
6
-23 Engine Coolant
6
-26 Power Steering Fluid
6
-27 Windshield Washer Fluid
6
-29 Brakes
6
-32 Battery
6
-33 Bulb Replacement
6
-38 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
6
-41 Tires6
-52 Lifting Your Corvette
6-56 Appearance Care
6
-56 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
6
-59 Cleaning a Removable Roof Panel
6
-60 Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
6
-61 Cleaning Your Convertible Top
6
-62 Cleaning Aluminum Wheels
6
-62 Cleaning Tires
6
-62 Finish Damage
6
-63 Underbody Maintenance
6
-64 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
6
-65 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
6
-65 Service Parts Identification Label
6
-66 Electrical System
6
-74 Replacement Bulbs
6
-74 Capacities and Specifications
6
-76 Air Conditioning Refrigerants
6
-76 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

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2. Pull the assembly out.
3. Replace the filter.
4. Push the assembly back into place.
5. Fasten the clips.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
How to Check
Because this operation is difficult, you may choose to
have this done at your dealer service department. It is
not necessary to check the transmission fluid level. A
transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss.
If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer service
department and have it repaired as soon as possible.
There is a special procedure for checking and changing
the transmission fluid. Contact your dealer for additional
information or the procedure can be found in a Corvette
Service Manual. To purchase a service manual, see
ªService and Owner Publicationsº in the Index.
NOTICE:
We recommend that only fluid labeled
DEXRON
-III be used, because fluid with
that label is made specially for your automatic
transmission. Damage caused by fluid other than
DEXRON

-III is not covered by your new
vehicle warranty.

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Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles
(80 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one of
these conditions:

In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90F (32C) or higher.

In hilly or mountainous terrain.

High performance operation.
If you do not use your vehicle under one of these
conditions, change the fluid and filter every
100,000 miles (166 000 km).
See ªScheduled Maintenance Servicesº in the Index for
the proper service intervals for the transmission fluid
and filter.
Manual Transmission Fluid
When to Check
A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is
changed. However, the fluid in your manual
transmission doesn't require changing.
How to Check
Because this operation can be difficult, you may choose
to have this done at your Chevrolet dealership
Service Department.
If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the
instructions here, or you could get a false reading.
NOTICE:
Too much or too little fluid can damage your
transmission. Too much can mean that some
of the fluid could come out and fall on hot
exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure
to get an accurate reading if you check your
transmission fluid.
Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the
vehicle is parked on a level place and the transmission is
cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the
transmission case.

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Crankcase
With Filter Change 6.5 quarts (6.1 L). . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel Tank19.3 gallons (73.1 L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Transmission
(Overhaul) 4.1 quarts (3.8 L). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Axle
Lubricant 1.69 quarts (1.6 L). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Limited Slip Additive 4 ounces (118 ml). . . . . . . . .
Tire PressuresSee Tire
-Loading Information . . . . . .
label on rear edge of driver's door.
Wheel Nut Torque100 lb
-ft (140 N´m) . . . . . . . . . .
NOTE: All capacities are approximate. When adding, be
sure to fill to the appropriate level, as recommended in
this manual. Recheck fluid level after filling.
Engine Specifications
Type5.7L V8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VIN Engine CodeG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Displacement350 cubic inches (5662 cc) . . . . . . . . .
Fuel DeliverySequential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multi
-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Valve ArrangementOverhead Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Piston Displacement5.7L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bore3.90 inches (9.9 cm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stroke3.62 inches (9.2 cm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compression Ratio10.1:1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Horsepower345 @ 5600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Torque350 @ 4400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Firing Order1
-8-7-2-6-5-4-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thermostat Starts to Open187
F (86
C) . . . . . . . .

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7-14 At Least Twice a Year
Restraint System Check
Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are
working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged
safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might
keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it
repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings,
and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade
inserts that appear worn or damaged or that streak or
miss areas of the windshield. Also see ªWiper Blades,
Cleaningº in the Index.
Weatherstrip Lubrication
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold,
damp weather more frequent application may be
required. (See ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº in
the Index.)Manual Transmission Check
Check the transmission fluid level; add if needed. See
ªManual Transmission Fluidº in the Index. Check for
leaks. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Have the
system inspected and repaired if needed.
Automatic Transmission Inspection
It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level.
A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid
loss. Check for leaks. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to
your Chevrolet dealership Service Department and have
it repaired as soon as possible.
At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders Service
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant
specified in Part D.
Body Lubrication Service
Lubricate all body door hinges. Also lubricate all hinges
and latches, including those for the hood, rear
compartment, console door and any folding seat
hardware. Part D tells you what to use. More frequent
lubrication may be required when exposed to a
corrosive environment.

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Section 9 Index
A
ccessory Power Outlet 2-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Active Handling
System 4
-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Light 2-81 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle 6-3 . . . . . .
Air Bag 1-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How Does it Restrain 1-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How it Works 1-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Location 1-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Readiness Light 1-21, 2-78 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing 1-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System 1-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What Makes it Inflate 1-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What Will You See After it Inflates 1-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
When Should it Inflate 1-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Cleaner 6-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Conditioning 3-3, 3-8, 3-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Conditioning Refrigerants 6-76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Dam 2-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alignment and Balance, Tire 6-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning 6-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antenna
Fixed Mast 3
-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Integrated 3-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Mast 3-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antifreeze 5-13, 5-16, 6-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anti
-Lock
Brake System Warning Light 2-80, 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brakes 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-Theft Radio 3-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appearance Care 6-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appearance Care Materials Chart 6-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ashtray 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio Equipment, Adding 3-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio Systems 3-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic
Electronic Dual Climate Control System 3
-4 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlamp Control 2-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overdrive 2-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Transmission
Check 7
-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid 6-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation 2-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Park Mechanism Check 7-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shifting 2-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting Your Engine 2-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Axle, Limited-Slip Rear 2-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Axle, Rear 6-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .