how to change transmission fluid in a 1988 chevy calvalier

Get the vehicle up off of the ground using either car ramps or a hoist. Locate transmission oil pan and loosen all the pan bolts a few turns. Then pry on the pan lightly with a screwdriver to break the gasket seal. Once that is accomplished have your oil drain pan ready on the floor under the transmission. Then remove all but the two front pan bolts slowly letting the pan lower down and the oil to drain. You will still have some oil in pan while removing it. Next take off the filter it should slide out of the housing with a little resistance. A new filter will cost about $48-$52. Make sure to clean all the gasket material off of the pan and the transmission before installing the new one. Make sure to tighten all the bolts evenly and not to over tighten them when reinstalling. Next check your manual for quantity and type of fluid required by your car and refill, test drive and recheck fluid level and for leaks around pan. Before driving your car after changing fluid let it idle for several seconds and run the gear selector through all the gears slowly to get the fluid to refill transmission.