Q: How to drain and replace transmission fluid and filter on Mercury Capri?
A: At the specified intervals, the transmission fluid should be drained and replaced. This procedure should only be performed after the engine has completely cooled down as the fluid will remain hot long after driving. Before beginning work, purchase the specified transmission fluid, a new filter, and a gasket. Never reuse the old filter or gasket! Other tools necessary for this job include jackstands to support the vehicle in a raised position, a large, shallow drain pan capable of holding at least eight pints, newspapers, and clean rags. Raise the vehicle and securely support it on jackstands. Do not crawl under the vehicle when it is supported only by a jack! Place the drain pan beneath the transmission. On pan-filled C4 and CS transmissions, disconnect the fluid filler tube from the pan to drain the transmission fluid. On all other models, with the drain pan in place, remove the mounting bolts from the front and sides of the transmission pan. Loosen the rear pan bolts approximately four turns. Let the pan hang down so the fluid can drain. Carefully pry the transmission pan loose with a screwdriver, allowing the fluid to drain. Avoid damaging the pan or transmission gasket surfaces to prevent leaks from developing. Remove the remaining bolts, pan, and gasket. Carefully clean the gasket surface of the transmission to remove all traces of the old gasket and sealant. Drain the fluid from the transmission pan, clean it with solvent, and dry it with compressed air if available. Remove the filter from the mount inside the transmission. The automatic transmission filter is held in place with small bolt(s). Install a new filter and gasket. Tighten the mounting bolt(s) securely. Ensure that the gasket surface on the transmission pan is clean, then install a new gasket. Put the pan in place against the transmission and install the bolts. Work around the pan, tightening each bolt a little at a time until a final torque is reached. Avoid overtightening the bolts! On pan-filled models, reconnect the filler tube to the pan. Lower the vehicle and add automatic transmission fluid through the filler tube. With the transmission in Park and the parking brake set, run the engine at a fast idle, but don't race it. Move the gear selector through each range and back to Park. Check the fluid level. Add fluid if needed to reach the correct level. Check under the vehicle for leaks during the first few trips.