How to Install 6L80 Cast Aluminum Deep Transmission Fluid Pan

In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing a 6L80 cast aluminum deep transmission fluid pan. This pan is designed for GM vehicles equipped with 6L80 transmissions, specifically the 2010-2014 Camaro SS with an automatic transmission. The B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Fluid Pan provides several advantages over stock factory oil pans, including increased oil volume, added cooling, and improved heat transfer.

Warning

The B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Transmission Fluid Pan has been designed with added capacity and external cooling fins, which cause the pan to hang as much as ¾” or more, lower than the original transmission pan. Extra care and caution should be taken when driving the vehicle over objects and/or straddling debris.

For a tutorial on how to install a new deep transmission pan on a 6L80E transmission, you can watch this YouTube video.

Tools Required to Install a 6L80 Cast Aluminum Deep Transmission Fluid Pan

• Drain Pan
• 14mm Deep Socket
• Ratchet Extension
• Ratchet
• 10mm Socket
• Flat Blade Screwdriver
• 4mm & 3/8” Hex Wrench
• 5mm Hex Drive
• 7/16” Box Wrench
• Teflon Tape
• Torque Wrench(s)
• Clean Rags
• 8 Quarts (7.6L) Dexron VI Trans Fluid
• Jack & Jack Stands
• Funnel
• B&M P/N 22168-Locking Transmission Dip Stick (suggested – otherwise use a Fluid Pump and Tubing)

6L80 Cast Aluminum Deep Transmission Fluid Pan Installation Steps

1. Drain the Oil Pan: Place a drain pan underneath the transmission. To drain the oil pan, first unscrew the rear center oil level check plug, using a 14mm deep socket and ratchet.

2. Remove the Pan Bolts: Loosen two opposing corner bolts and remove the rest of the pan bolts using a 10mm socket, extension, and ratchet. If the pan and gasket stick, pry it down slightly with a screwdriver to break the seal.

3. Remove the Pan: Carefully remove the two remaining corner bolts while holding the pan and lower the pan without spilling the remaining fluid. The pan will be about 7/8 or more, full of fluid, so keep the pan level and slowly move it out from underneath the vehicle where it can be safely drained.

4. Clean the Magnet: Remove the magnet from the pan, fully clean it, and set it aside as it will be re-used.

5. Change the Filter: The oil filter will now be exposed. If changing the filter (recommended), pull the filter out of the valve body, being careful not to bend the filter pickup tube as it is plastic and may crack or break. If the seal remains in the valve body and does not come out with the filter, remove it by using a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the surface. Then install the new filter (GM p/n: 24236931).

6. Place the Magnet: Place the magnet removed earlier on the bottom of the B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Transmission Fluid Pan directly on top of the star feature with a threaded hole. Using the supplied button head screw and over-sized washer, affix the magnet to the bottom of the pan and tighten it with a 4mm hex wrench.

7. Install the Plugs: Place Teflon tape on the threads of the magnetic drain plug and temperature sensor plug (or sending unit if using a temperature gauge) and tighten them into the pan using a 3/8″ hex wrench and 7/16″ box wrench.

8. Install the Oil Level Check Plug: Using a 14mm deep socket, extension, and ratchet; remove the oil level check plug from the stock pan and install it into the oil level check recess of the B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Fluid Pan. Tighten to 18 ft-lbf (25 N-m).

9. Inspect the Gasket: Closely inspect the transmission pan gasket for any signs of problems including, rips, tears, or excessive deformation. Replace with a new gasket (GM p/n: 24224781) if necessary. Align the gasket onto the mounting flange of the B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Fluid Pan and push the nubs of the gasket into the guide hole of the pan to hold the gasket in place.

10. Clean the Transmission Surface: Clean the transmission mating surface with a clean rag.

11. Install the B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Oil Pan: Install the B&M Cast Aluminum Deep Oil Pan using the supplied bolts and washers. Using a 5mm hex drive, extension, and torque wrench tighten the bolts to 80 in-lbf (9N-m) in the sequence shown in diagram A. Do not over-tighten as this can cause leaks or damage to the transmission case or gasket.

12. Add Transmission Fluid: Add approximately 7.3 quarts (6.9L) of Dexron VI transmission fluid (only) to the transmission using one of these methods:
    • Method A (preferred): With the dipstick removed, use a funnel and slowly add the transmission fluid through the previously installed B&M 6L80 Locking Dipstick P/N 22168 tube. Pouring the fluid in too quickly can cause fluid to back up in the tube and spill. Pour slowly and carefully.
    • Method B: Locate the fill plug on the right side of the transmission case and remove it by pulling it straight out from the top. Using a tube and a pump, pump the fluid into the transmission pan through the fill plug hole.
    • Method C: Remove the oil level check plug and using a tube and pump, pump the fluid into the transmission pan through the oil level check hole.

13. Check the Fluid Level: Check the fluid level of the transmission. The transmission fluid level must be checked when the operating range of the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) is between 86-122°F(30-50°C). If the transmission fluid is outside this range the level of the transmission fluid cannot be accurately determined resulting in either an overfilled or underfilled transmission.

14. Inspect for Leaks: Inspect the pan gasket and any of the ports for any signs of leaks and correct them immediately before operating the vehicle.

15. Reset the Oil Life Monitor: Reset the oil life monitor in the DIC.
16. Periodic Checks: Over the next several cycles of vehicle operation inspect the transmission, pan, and ports for any signs of leaks and periodically check the transmission fluid level.

By following these steps, you can successfully install a 6L80 cast aluminum deep transmission fluid pan. This will enhance the performance and longevity of your vehicle’s transmission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Installing a 6L80 cast aluminum deep transmission fluid pan is a significant upgrade for your vehicle’s transmission system. Not only does it increase the oil volume and improve cooling, but it also enhances heat transfer, contributing to the overall performance and longevity of your transmission.

With the right tools and careful adherence to the provided instructions, the installation process can be straightforward and rewarding. Remember, regular checks of the fluid level and inspection for leaks are crucial to maintaining the optimal functioning of your transmission. 

Upgrade your vehicle today with the 6L80 cast aluminum deep transmission fluid pan and experience the difference!