GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

This transmission uses a dry sump method of operation. There is no reservoir of fluid in the bottom pan during operation. The majority of fluid remains in the side pan. Fluid is continuously supplied from the bottom pan to the upper valve body. The upper valve body distributes fluid to the necessary components. The three pumps operate in the following manner:

    • Scavenger Pump -This pump continuously supplies fluid to the side pan by scavenging oil from the bottom pan.
    • Primary Pump - This pump operates on fluid from the scavenger pump and supplies line pressure for all gear ranges.
    • Secondary Pump - During demand driving situations such as forced throttle downshifts, wide open throttle upshifts, and Reverse, this pump helps the primary pump to reach the boosted line pressures that are needed. The secondary pump also helps supply the fluid capacity to the necessary clutches during initial engagement.