1998 Bonneville SSEi...

I'm most likely changing my oil tomorrow, and I thought maybe I would change my tranny fluid also. I do not have that much experience with working on cars much yet, just stuff here and there, like plugs, oil things like that... is changing the tranny fluid something I should attempt? Also, what kind of fluid works best? Has anyone found any differences from that of the walkthrough in Tech Info, for a newer year? Also, about how much should I expect it to cost?

Other questions:

Anybody have a particular brand of oil that gives good results, I heard Mobil One was good, any opinions?

Any idea how much to replace an AC compressor?

How much would a new alternator be?

Thanks for any help.

Mobil 1.
Trans, use any fluid EXCEPT a synthetic. If you want to do a change yourself, get a filter. Drop the pan, change the filter, replace 1/3 of your fluid.

If you want it all, change the filter first, then go get it flushed professionally for about $80.

Replacing an AC compressor is spendy.

An alternator will run you 100-200 bucks depending on what you want.

any idea how much the filter and fluid would be?

$25?

For the oil change, I use regular name brand oils bought on sale at auto stores. I change at 3000 or 3500 and use a new Purolator regular filter each time. Rather than spending more for higher priced oil, I just keep it clean and effective by regular changes.

As for the tranny, just put the car on strong stands, and put plastic down under where you're working. I've done lots of trans changes. I would recommend doing multiple changes at 5K or 10K rather than a complete flush, t hat'* just my opinion on one that'* already got lots of miles. Also don't do the change on a windy day if you're outdoors. The dripping trans fluid flies everywhere.

thanks for the tips. yeah, being in new england really sucks when you have things you need to get done to your car when you don't even have a garage... especially in the winter =( luckily my buddy has a large, heated, barn-type garage with a lift and all kinds of goodies inside =D just have to get a day when him or his dad isn't out there....

If your going to do it on a lift and out of the cold I'd say go for it.
I just changed my fluid yesterday. Make sure you get a rubber gasket instead of a cork one.
Search for a post by jr's3800. He did a good write up on it.

does the gasket come with the filter?

Yes it does, but it'* usually cork. Don't use that one.

If you're careful, you can re-use the OEM rubber gasket. It'* intended for re-use. NEVER cork.

If your old gasket is crap, get a new rubber gasket from the dealer.

Do I have to get one from the dealer, or is that something I could pick up at say Pep Boys or something, while I'm getting the tranny fluid and such?