How to change transmission fluid on a 2002 Chevy S-10

My first hand experience with this seemingly easy maintenance task

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basic sockets
• Jack stands
• Floor jack

1. Start out with getting parts such as transmission filter, pan gasket and fluid. I got my supplies from advanced auto and was informed that two gaskets are available. One gasket was for a trans pan with a hump in the front. I looked under my trunk and determined it was not that gasket. So by eliminating one I knew which gasket would fit my truck.( the Hayes manual mentioned none of this)

2. 
   If you have problems viewing the picture on the Ehow website just right Click the picture and select "save picture as" save it to the desktop for easy viewing ( you can even zoom in or out; neat)

   Ok ready to raise the vehicle and insert the jack stands. When you get under the truck and look up you'll be relieved to find most of the bolts are easy to get to with a socket and ratchet. However we'll also notice the linkage that connects the trans shifter to the trans. At first glance it looks complicated to remove ( well it did to me ) but it's not so don't worry. Start at the very end of the linkage which is a round end that snaps into the trans.(1) Use a screw driver and pop it off. Now follow the linkage to the point where in attaches to a bracket which attaches to the trans pan.(2)Remove a horseshoe clip from the linkage and squeeze the two ends separating it from the bracket. Now the bolts holding the bracket (and thus holding the trans pan) are now exposed and ready for removal. Refer to pictures for (1) and (2)
   
   
   working on finishing more steps
   E-mail me if you have any questions [e-mail]

3. Remove all bolts and get ready for a mess. The old gasket came off clean, no scraping of grinding at all. I sprayed the trans pan out with carb cleaner and whipped it clean. The Hayes manual says use a solvent but I'm unclear on what solvent to use. Also In the bottom of the pan is what looks like a magnet to catch any metal particles. If anyone knows what this is contact me.

4. Put the gasket on and then insert the pan back on the trans. once everything is put back together fill the trans with about 5 quarts of fluid. Check the level every few days to make sure you have no leaks.