The filter is internal... You must take the bottom PAN off to get to it. You'll get some on you and pretty near everything around you too...
Big JIm <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Should I start the engin when I drain the ATF?

No, never do that! What is left in the engine needs to stay put.
Big Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

Most aw-4 trannys I've seen have a drain plug in the pan. Drain the oil and let it drip for a while. The AW-4 pan is rectangular in shape and is held on with 19 bolts. Get a filter kit from the parts store and look at the filter and when you take the pan down you'll see which bolts you need to remove to change it. If it's like mine, three bolts hold the filter in place. The kit should include a new gasket for the pan. You should need at least 4 or 5 Liters of fluid to refill, it will vary according to how much fluid remained in the torque converter when you drain it. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

OK,
Pete you right in what you say.
I put in new filter kit and new fluid. Now I am done. After a drive test...everything the same. So, was a waste of...
All the same.
Next step...scrap, right?

Seems like you need a "hands on" mechanic to check it out.

If indeed you had the transmission electronic controller disconnected and the transmission still shifted into first gear when you put the lever in drive, then there is a mechanical problem with the transmission.
I hate to recommend taking it to a shop because I don't trust them, especially when it comes to transmissions. It is so easy for them to say you need a rebuilt transmission when maybe all you need is an adjustment. But I don't know what else to tell you. Maybe someone else has an idea to share. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

Pete I don't know much about these fancy new trannys but if it was an older tranny I'd look to the detent device... I wonder what the hell that looks like today?
Big Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

Hey, I have an 89 Cherokee and i do all repairs my self (I work for a Shop) if your tranny is staying in first and will not shift until you wind it out all of the way I can just about say for certain that it is your TPS sensor mine has gone bad. I replaced it and it worked fine unfortunatly it is a pricey part but if your fuse under the passenger side dash just before the trannny computer is good then i would say it is your TPS.

May I damage the TPS by watering???