I'm installing new filter in trans 4+3. I bought the kit from Ecklers. I saw where the fill drain plug is above the filter. But what is the other drain plug on side of trans up closer to front of car?

 

You're probably talking about the Trans itself, as opposed to the OD unit. Don't put ATF in that one.

 

The 4-speed portion has a pipe plug on the right side of the case for filling. The 4-speed uses regular GL5-rated 80W-90 gear oil. If you intend to change the gear oil in the 4-speed, make sure you can open the fill plug before you drain the old oil out.

Too bad you wasted your money on the Eckler's kit. The filter used in the OD unit is the same one as was used in the Ford FMX auto transmissions found in some late 60's and early 70's Mustangs and Mercury Cougars, some Fairlanes and a few F-150's. These filters can be found at parts stores for around $7 to $8. Here's some part numbers:
CarQuest 85926
AC Delco TF-184
Fram FT1024
NAPA ATP14717
Ford D0AZ-7A098-A (this will cost more from a dealer)

If the old rubber grommet is in good condition, just re-use it on the new filter. Make sure the magnet goes back in the same spot on the bottom of the pan.

There is no need to use a cork gasket as a good grade of RTV Sealant works just fine. Make sure the pan rails and the bottom of the OD case are completely clean of old material and that the pan rails are straight. Apply a 3/16 bead of RTV arond the pan rails, circle the bolt holes and immediately install the pan. Tighten the bolts evenly but not too tight.

Use a good grade of DexronIII ATF fluid. Don't use synthetics. Should take about 2 quarts to refill.

 

Ok. Thank you. I got everything done today. Not to bad just wish I had a lift. What temp should my car be running. Today it got very humid in Maryland and when I took car out the temp got about 210-215

 

What was the ambient air temps?? My 87 will run 180-200 on 80 degree days. Gets to 225-230 during track days but it will immediately cool down on cool-down laps.

If the coolant is less than 3 years old, I would do a complete flush and refill using a good grade of ethylene glycol coolant (green) and distilled water.

Check the front of the A/C condenser and the radiator. Chances are that there is a bunch of dirt and debris between the cooling tubes that is not allowing air to pass thru. You can use a garden hose and nozzle from the fan side to remove it. You might want to replace the thermostat when you do a flush. A 180 degree stat works fine.

Check the condition of the lower radiator hose. If the hose is old, it could be weak and possibly collapsing which cuts the flow of coolant.

 

Don't you mean if the coolant is MORE than 3 years old?

When I flushed my 89, I filled with Zerex G-05. As it is supposed to be safe to use in GM vehicles, and has a longer service life of 3 years. On the green stuff, they say you should change it every year.