When changing the trans fluid on my 2004 Avalanche, I understand that you have to disconnect the trans lines from the radiator and run the engine until the fluid stops flowing. Is this correct? If so, do I need to disconnect both lines or just the top or just the bottom? Thanks for your time! Adam

TO HAVE TO DISCONNECT SHIFT LINKAGE.

I didn't read about running the engine at all during the transmission fluid change. --- Removal & Installation 4L60E/4L65E To Remove:

1. Raise and safely support the vehicle.
2. Place a drain pan under the transmission.
3. If equipped with a drain plug, drain the transmission fluid.
4. If necessary, remove the bolts and position aside the range selector cable bracket for clearance while lowering the pan. It is not necessary to remove the cable from the lever or bracket.
5. Remove the catalytic converter.
6. Remove the oil pan bolts from the front and sides of the pan only.
7. Loosen the rear oil pan mounting bolts about 4 turns.
8. Lightly tap the oil pan with a rubber mallet in order to loosen the pan and allow the fluid to drain.
9. Remove the remaining oil pan bolts.
10. Remove the oil pan and the gasket.
11. Remove the filter by twisting and pulling on it.
12. Remove and discard the filter seal. The filter seal may be stuck in the pump; if necessary, carefully use pliers or another suitable tool to remove the seal.
13. Clean the transmission and the oil pan sealing surfaces with solvent, and air dry. You must remove all traces of the old gasket material.

1. Coat the new filter seal with transmission fluid.
2. Install the new filter seal into the transmission case. Tap the seal into place using a suitable size socket.
3. Install the new filter.
4. Install the oil pan and new gasket. Tighten the bolts alternately and evenly to 97 lb in (11 Nm).
5. Install the catalytic converter.
6. If previously removed, install the range selector cable bracket and bolts. Tighten the bolts to 18 lb ft (25 Nm).
7. Apply a small amount of sealant GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480), or equivalent to the threads of the oil pan drain plug, if equipped.
8. Install the oil pan drain plug, if equipped. Tighten the plug to 13 lb ft (18 Nm).
9. Lower the vehicle.
10. Fill the transmission to the proper level with DEXRON® III transmission fluid.
11. Check the COLD fluid level reading for initial fill only.
12. Inspect the oil pan gasket for leaks.

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
2. Place a drain pan under the transmission oil pan. Drain the transmission fluid and install the plug. Tighten the drain plug to 13 lb ft (18 Nm).
3. Support the transmission with a transmission jack.
4. Remove the transmission crossmember.
5. Disconnect the range selector cable end from the transmission range selector lever ball stud. NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the selector cable from the bracket.
   
6. Remove the transmission range selector cable bracket. Reposition the bracket and cable.
7. Remove the oil pan bolts. NOTE: The transmission oil pan gasket is reusable. Replace as needed.
   
8. Remove the oil pan and gasket.
9. Remove the magnet from the bottom of the pan, if necessary.
10. Remove the oil filter and neck seal.

1. Clean the transmission and the oil pan sealing surfaces with solvent.
2. Install the filter neck seal and filter.
3. Install the oil pan gasket to the pan.
4. Install the magnet into the bottom of the pan, if necessary.
5. Install the oil pan and bolts. Tighten the oil pan bolts to 18 lb ft (24 Nm).
6. Install the transmission range selector cable bracket. Tighten the bolts to 18 lb ft (25 Nm).
7. Connect the range selector cable end to the transmission range selector lever ball stud.
8. Install the transmission crossmember. Tighten the fasteners to 70 lb ft (95 Nm).
9. Install the transmission mount nuts. Tighten the nuts to 30 lb ft (40 Nm).
10. Remove the transmission jack.
11. Lower the vehicle.
12. Fill the transmission to the proper level with DEXRON® III transmission fluid.