What is the difference between total ATF capacity and drain-n-refill capacity of an auto transmission?

Question

My 4-speed auto transmission is Toyota's A240L (on 5AFE engine) which is hydraulically controlled. I googled and found that the total ATF capacity is 7.2 liters but drain-n-refill capacity is 3.3 liters. What's the difference here?

When I do the ATF change, the mechanic usually removes the drain nut underneath, removes the pan, cleans the filter, re-seals and pours in fresh Dexron. In this process how much ATF should I use? In one site, I found that A240L gearbox differential is shared with gearbox ATF so at ATF change, 7.2 liters should be used.

I am just looking for expert opinion for my next ATF change. Recommended ATF is Dexron II, but can I use Dexron III H?

Thanks

Answer 1

when the pan is dropped or the drain plug is removed, most of the fluid remains in areas like the valve body, the pump, the lines, the cooler and the torque converter. go with what the site states for a refill on the pan. worst case scenario, you will have to add a bit more but not much.

Answer 2

When you drain an automatic trans most of the time they do not drain the torque converter. That is why the capacity is larger than the drain & fill.

Answer 3

use dextron two if thats what it calls 4 the difference is drain n refill only is going to drain pan it does not drain converter front pump

Answer 4

the difference is it would take 7.2 liters to fill it if it was completely empty and with drain and fill it wont be completely empty so only 3.3 liters would fit