Patent ID: 6170505
Filing Date: 2001-01-09
Classification: F01M,Y10T

Abstract:
An apparatus for replacing a fluid employed in a vehicle component, wherein the fluid to be replaced is stored in a reservoir of the vehicle and a replacement fluid is stored in a separate container, the apparatus comprising:a bi-directional pump having a first port and a second port;a service line connected in fluid communication with the first port and including a free end adapted to be placed in fluid communication with the reservoir of the vehicle;a supply line connected in fluid communication with the second port and including a first check valve that permits fluid flow in a direction toward the pump while preventing the flow of fluid in a direction away from the pump, the supply line being adapted for connection in fluid communication with the replacement fluid container;a drain line connected in fluid communication with the second port and including a second check valve that permits fluid flow in a direction away from the pump while preventing the flow of fluid in a direction toward the pump; anda switch movable between an ""off"" position in which the pump is off, a first ""on"" position in which the pump operates in a first direction forcing fluid from the first port to the second port so that fluid is drained from the reservoir, and a second ""on"" position in which the pump operates in a second direction forcing fluid from the second port to the first port so that fluid from the container is pumped into the reservoir.