2008 v6 Transmission Hard Shifting

[cdness]

So typically I am doing my own vehicle maintenance for many years. I recently picked up this Explorer as a replacement for my rusting out Sable. However after driving it for a few months I am noticing the transmission seems to have some hard shifts... As I have done in the past, I popped the hood to locate the transmission dipstick to check fluid levels and couldn't find one. Upon searching Google, it seems this model doesn't have an accessible dip stick without a lift.

Is that correct that the dipstick isn't really accessible or am I just blind?

My intention was to check the levels and add some Lucas Transmission to make up for some any fluid missing as I don't know the maintenance history on this vehicle. However if I can't find the dip stick, I am at a loss on what to do other than take it in to a shop, which I really don't like doing...

The Explorer is at 155,000 miles. Is there anything you fellow Explorer owners think I should do as a preventative measure due to not knowing the history of the vehicle?

 

[Tech By Trade]

Dont add lucas, these things are very picky about their fluid. Your best bet is to drop the pan, and change the filter. Top it up with 5 quarts of MERCON V only. MERCON V. it is a process requiring a special adapter and a vacuum pump. Next up a band adjustment wouldn't hurt either. Have a search, guides for both processes can be found.