Rootes Group Sunbeam Alpine Series II Owner's Handbook Manual page 17

PAGE. 30
GEARBOX AND OVERDRIVE
OVERDRIVE UNIT (fitted at the factory as an optional
extra)
The overdrive unit is controlled by a manually operated switch
on the steering column and by a switch in the gearbox top cover.
The switch in the gearbox is automatically operated when either
top or third gear is selected so that the overdrive can be engaged
only when the gear lever is in either of these gears.
To engage or disengage the overdrive when the gear lever is
in these gears move the manual switch in the appropriate direction­
downwards to engage overdrive and upwards to revert to direct
drive.
It is not necessary to move the clutch pedal when making these
changes, which should be carried out with the accelerator pedal
depressed.
It is generally advisable to disengage the overdrive switch before
changing from overdrive 3rd to 2nd gear, as this will ensure that the
transmission is not subjected to heavy loads due to by-passing direct
3rd gear.
of
In the unlikely event the overdrive failing
on no
gear should account be used.
MAINTENANCE
A combined level and filler plug is located In the side of the
gearbox in ord. e r to facilitate checking and, when necessary, the
replenishment of oil in the gearbox and overdrive to the correct
level.
The correct oil level is to the filler hole. Always allow excess
oil to drain off before replacing the plug.
When checking the oil ensure that the car is standing on a level
surface.
Draining the gearbox will be easier if carried out shortly after
the car has completed a run. The oil is then warm and will flow
freely.
Only the specified grade of Shell oil should be used.
GE.ARBOX AND OVE.RDRIVE.
to
disengage, reverse
GE.ARBOX AND OVE.RDRIVE.
Draining the Gearbox and Overdrive
This should be carried out when the oil is warm.
The grades of oil recommended in the Lubrication and Main­
tenance Chart should be used (see end of book). Before draining,
the overdrive switch should be moved to the engaged position
and back again, with the ignition on and top gear selected, 10 or 12
times to empty the overdrive hydraulic system. Before draining,
both gearbox and overdrive should be wiped clean, as any dirt
which finds its way into the overdrive unit may cause restrictions in
the ·overdrive hydraulic system. · To drain the gearbox and over­
drive unit remove the drain plug from the gearbox, as shown in the
Lubrication and Maintenance Chart at the end of the book and also
the large brass drain plug located under the overdrive unit.
illustration). When refilling, the oil should be allowed to settle
for a few minutes in order to allow surplus oil to drain off. A further
check should be made when the car has been run.
NOTE THAT THE COMBINED OIL CAPACITY OF GEARBOX
AND OVERDRIVE IS 4 PINTS (4·8 American Pints (2·3 litres)).
DO NOT DISTURB
DO NOT DISTURB
Adjustment of Overdrive Controls
The operation of the controls can be checked by means of the
hole in the solenoid lever on the right-hand side of the unit, accessible
PAGE. 31
(See