How many quarts does a Chevy 350 transmission take?
The capacity depends on the automatic transmission model paired to the Chevy 350. In practice, most common setups fall in a few ranges: about 9 quarts for a TH350, around 13 quarts for a TH400, and roughly 11–13 quarts for newer 700R4/4L60-E units. Check your exact model and year for the precise figure.
Common transmissions and their fluid capacities
Transmissions vary by year and design. The capacities below reflect typical totals for a standard drain-and-refill with a new filter and pan, and can vary with pan size and converter fill. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the exact figure.
Model-year variations
Note that capacities differ across model years and transmission designs. Always verify against factory specifications for your exact vehicle.
- TH350 automatic: Approximately 9 quarts total capacity (pan content plus converter and lines when fully drained and refilled with a new filter).
- TH400 automatic: Approximately 13–15 quarts total capacity, with commonly cited figures around 13 quarts for a standard filter change.
- 700R4 / 4L60-E automatic: Approximately 11–13 quarts total capacity, depending on pan size and converter fill.
These figures are typical guides. Specific vehicles may differ slightly due to pan design, cooler additions, or factory revisions. Always confirm with the exact transmission code and the official service documentation for your year and model.
How to confirm the exact capacity for your vehicle
Because the Chevy 350 could be paired with several different transmissions, the precise fluid capacity should come from the official service manual or the factory specifications for your exact transmission model and year. If that documentation isn’t available, use the transmission code (often stamped on the case) to look up the exact capacity in reputable repair guides or online factory sources.
Summary
There isn’t a single universal number for every Chevy 350 build. Typical total capacities to expect are: TH350 about 9 quarts, TH400 about 13–15 quarts, and 700R4/4L60-E about 11–13 quarts. Always verify the exact figure for your vehicle to ensure proper fill levels and performance.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 350 transmission take?
The transmission fluid for a "350" varies significantly depending on the specific vehicle model and year. For older non-electronic transmissions, such as a GM TH350, you will need a fluid like DEXRON III. For a modern Ford F-350 or E-350, you would need a specific fluid like Mercon LV or Mercon V. For a Mercedes E350, the manufacturer specifies a particular synthetic fluid, and you must check the owner's manual for the exact specification (e.g., MB 236.10, 236.12, or 236.14).
For an older GM TH350
- Fluid Type: DEXRON III
- Note: This is for older, non-electronic transmissions.
For a modern Ford F-350 or E-350
- Fluid Type: Mercon LV or Mercon V are common, but always check your owner's manual for the specific type required for your model year.
For a Mercedes E350
- Fluid Type: A specific synthetic fluid meeting the manufacturer's specifications (e.g., MB 236.10, 236.12, or 236.14).
- Note: Using the incorrect fluid can cause shifting problems.
To confirm the correct fluid
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable method to ensure you get the correct fluid for your specific vehicle.
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.
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 350 Chevy take?
| Transmission Fluid Capacity | |
|---|---|
| Transmission (w/ Stock Pan) | # of Quarts |
| GM TH350 | 4 |
| GM TH400 | 6 |
| GM Powerglide | 4 |
How many quarts of transmission fluid for a drain and fill?
For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid.
How to determine the right amount
- Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling.
- Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process.
- Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid.
- Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high.
- Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading.
Important considerations
- A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter.
- You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage.
- Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.
