So, allow me to clarify, if you will. I want to remove the hose connecting the transmission to the lower radiator fitting. Using a length of 1"ID plastic hose (clear), I want to attach it to the hose I just removed, in essence extending the hose to make it easier to route the fluid into my waste container, right?

I want to connect the clear plastic hose to the end of the hose I removed, and not the radiator fitting, correct?

Then just run the engine until bubbles appear, add two quarts, run until bubbles appear, and repeat until the fluid coming out is clear, then top it off?

As for the filter, the car has 45,000 miles on it. Since this is my first time doing anything 'under the hood', I think I'd prefer to keep it simple and wait to replace the filter. If all goes well, I'll change the transmission fluid again in about 30,000 miles, so I will do it then.

I purchased some car ramps at Sears to put the front end of the car up on, so I'm going to get under there today and check things out. If I see this hose that we speak of, I'll purchase 16 quarts of Mobil or Amsoil synthetic ATF at the store, and do the change over the weekend.

I really appreciate your help. Thank you very much.