Next thing to try is pulling the lower pipe of the transmission cooler rad to get a few liters out that way.

I'm trying this to learn if improving the fluid quality helps shifting.  If it does not then I would then know that I  have to pull the pan and either clean or replace the two shift solenoids.

Anybody see a flaw..?

The fluid is quite dirty so changing it is a good idea.

If you've got a large enough catch tray then just drop the pan and let it all come out.

Try cleaning the solenoids with solvent cleaner (throttle/carb or MAF cleaner) first to see if that gives an improvement, or take them out and get them tested for leaks, then, maybe, think about changing the shift solenoids at the next fluid change.

Thanks Dave.

Side question, my transmission dipstick, each time it comes up with fluid everywhere. I find it impossible to read any level from it. Is this normal? The engine oil dipstick is easy to read...

15 hours ago, ride_comfort_is_my_object said:

Thanks Dave.

Side question, my transmission dipstick, each time it comes up with fluid everywhere. I find it impossible to read any level from it. Is this normal? The engine oil dipstick is easy to read...

Do you check level with transmission warm, in Park, Engine running?

Do you check level with transmission warm, in Park, Engine running?  O... Right... It's that way... I see...

Let's just say I do now..!

Got a question Dave, as I now intend to remove more transmission fluid via the return radiator pipe. If I just pump out all the fluid would the transmission seize up light the engine would without oil?  If so is it better to remove say 3L at a time and refill the same amount or do I go much lower and slower?

Update to previous: I only sucked out 0.5L and drove it, 1 to 2 shifting was even more delayed. Decided to put in 1L new fluid, 1 to 2 shifting noticeably improved. Still not smooth, more work needed.

8 hours ago, ride_comfort_is_my_object said:

Got a question Dave, as I now intend to remove more transmission fluid via the return radiator pipe. If I just pump out all the fluid would the transmission seize up light the engine would without oil?  If so is it better to remove say 3L at a time and refill the same amount or do I go much lower and slower?

Update to previous: I only sucked out 0.5L and drove it, 1 to 2 shifting was even more delayed. Decided to put in 1L new fluid, 1 to 2 shifting noticeably improved. Still not smooth, more work needed.

I'd honestly say, just drop the pan, change the filter, fill and check level.

Then, maybe after a couple of thousand miles, drop the pan and change the fluid again.

Don't run it without fluid