2001 S60 Transmission cooler connection problem

[NinoJ]

Hi everybody,

New to the world of DIY maintenance, and I would like to flush the transmission fluid and install an in-line filter myself.

I've bought some Mobil 3309 fluid, a magnetic in-line filter and the IPD hose ATF flush kit, however when I go to disconnect the return line at the radiator, one of the tabs on the green clip has been broken. (see pic)



Does anyone have any ideas on how to remove the return hose? I was thinking of removing that aluminium fitting on the radiator that the hose goes into, but I would like to get some other suggestions before I take a spanner to it

The other idea that I had was to drain the ATF from where I will cut the return line to install the in-line filter, but that could get a little messy.. besides the IPD flush kit came with a new green clip so if I'd prefer to remove the old broken clip and replace it with a new one if I can.

What do you guys reckon? Thanks in advance

[Georgeandkira]

Hello NinoJ, Without looking at my spare green clip I think you can get a piece of thin metal (dull knife blade) beside the remaining part of the broken ear and move it inward. A third hand would be helpful. Two things to keep in mind are: 1) The ears don't seem to move that much when you squeeze them. Don't expect to see alot of travel. Squeezing the good ear will give you an idea. Have good lighting etc. 2) With the ears squeezed in you might have to pull hard. Nothing Herculean but the fitting has been made for how long? Some people claim to have had their's come out real easily. I put on a thick leather glove so I wouldn't bang my hand. In my case it was necessary. Today I'll look at my spare green clip to see if I was right. Kira

[jda2000]

The way to remove the hose is to squeeze the ears of the green clip, push inward on the clip and pull the hose out with the other hand(while you're pushing the clip inwards).

[NinoJ]

Hello NinoJ, Without looking at my spare green clip I think you can get a piece of thin metal (dull knife blade) beside the remaining part of the broken ear and move it inward. A third hand would be helpful. Two things to keep in mind are: 1) The ears don't seem to move that much when you squeeze them. Don't expect to see alot of travel. Squeezing the good ear will give you an idea. Have good lighting etc. 2) With the ears squeezed in you might have to pull hard. Nothing Herculean but the fitting has been made for how long? Some people claim to have had their's come out real easily. I put on a thick leather glove so I wouldn't bang my hand. In my case it was necessary. Today I'll look at my spare green clip to see if I was right. Kira

Thanks for the tips, will try a piece of thin metal on the broken ear on the weekend (if I get time, hopefully)