How many quarts does a 350 transmission hold?
The Turbo-Hydramatic 350 (TH350) automatic transmission typically holds about 9 quarts of ATF for a standard refill; when the torque converter and full system are included, the total capacity runs around 12 to 13 quarts. Exact figures vary by model year, pan configuration, and whether you’re draining the converter during a full flush.
Understanding TH350 capacity
Below are the typical capacity figures mechanics rely on when servicing a TH350, noting that actual numbers can differ based on year, pan size, and service method.
Before the list: the following figures reflect common shop estimates used during fluid changes and full-system fills.
- Pan-drain/refill capacity (no torque converter drained): about 8.5–9.5 quarts
- Full-system capacity including the torque converter: about 12–13 quarts
These figures serve as practical guidelines for planning a drain-and-fill or a complete transmission service. Always verify with the specific GM service manual for your exact year and configuration.
Summary
In short, plan for roughly 9 quarts for a standard TH350 refill, with about 12–13 quarts when the torque converter is included and the system is fully filled. Variations arise from pan size, cooler lines, and whether a full converter drain is performed.
How many quarts does a 350 transmission take?
| Transmission Fluid Capacity | |
|---|---|
| Transmission (w/ Stock Pan) | # of Quarts |
| GM TH350 | 4 |
| GM TH400 | 6 |
| GM Powerglide | 4 |
What type of transmission fluid does a TH350 take?
The correct fluid for a TH350 transmission is Dexron III (or a fluid that meets its specification), although some applications and performance builds may specify Type F fluid. While Dexron VI is a modern replacement for some older transmissions, it has a lower viscosity and may increase the converter's stall speed, making it less ideal for older TH350s designed for Dexron III or Type F. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual or the specific requirements of a custom build for the most accurate fluid type.
Dexron III
- What it is: The original factory fill and recommended fluid for most stock TH350 applications.
- Modern equivalent: Today, you'll find aftermarket fluids that are designated as meeting the older Dexron III (H) specification, such as those labeled as "DEX/Merc".
- Important Note: Dexron VI is a newer fluid that has replaced Dexron III in some modern applications. However, because it is a lower viscosity fluid, it is not the best choice for older transmissions like the TH350.
Type F
- What it is: Some high-performance or heavily modified TH350s, especially those that did not originally have an electronic control unit, may be built to use Type F fluid.
- Why it's used: Type F fluid can provide quicker, firmer shifts and lower heat build-up in certain applications.
- Important Note: Type F should not be used in a stock transmission that was not designed for it, and vice-versa. Check with the manufacturer of your transmission for compatibility.
Universal fluids
- What they are: Some universal automatic transmission fluids are designed to be compatible with multiple specifications, including Dexron III.
- Important Note: Read the label carefully to ensure the fluid is compatible with your application. Do not mix universal fluids with other types of transmission fluid unless the manufacturer specifies it is safe to do so.
Conclusion
- For most stock TH350s, use Dexron III or a modern equivalent that meets that specification.
- For performance builds, check the requirements of your specific transmission. Some may require Type F fluid.
- Always check the owner's manual or with the transmission builder: for the correct fluid specification before adding any fluid.
How much transmission fluid does an F350 take?
The Ford F-350 transmission fluid capacity varies by model year and transmission type, with automatic transmissions typically ranging from approximately 16.5 to 17.7 quarts for a total fill. For a standard filter and pan drop service, the initial fill is often around 8 quarts. Always consult your specific owner's manual to confirm the correct capacity for your vehicle.
Automatic transmission (6R140)
- Total capacity: 16.5 to 17.7 quarts (15.6 to 16.8 liters)
- Initial fill (after pan drop): About 8 quarts
Manual transmission (S6-650)
- Capacity: 11.6 pints (5.8 quarts) without the oil cooler, and 12.7 pints (6.3 quarts) with the oil cooler
How many quarts of oil does a 350 small block take?
A 350 small block engine typically takes 5 quarts of oil, including the oil filter, when changing the oil. After refilling, start the engine, let it run briefly, and then recheck the oil level with the dipstick, adding more as needed to ensure the correct level.
- Capacity: A standard oil change for a Chevy 350 small block engine holds about 5 quarts of oil when a new filter is installed.
- After Refill: After adding the initial 5 quarts, it's crucial to start the engine and let it run for a short period. This circulates the new oil and fills the new filter.
- Final Check: After the engine has run and then been turned off for a few minutes, use the dipstick to check the oil level. Top it off as needed to reach the full mark, but avoid overfilling.
- Important Note: If your engine has a non-standard or custom oil pan, the capacity can vary, so it's best to add the oil in increments and check the dipstick to be sure.
