Where's The Dip-stick

[viking37]

After having my 2002 explorer in for service the last few times I found (when checking fluids before a trip) that I am missing the transmission dip stick. Why did Ford in there ultimiate wisdom decide i dont need one. How can i check for fluid level or burnt fluid. WHY!!!!!!!!!

 

['96explorereddiebauer]

Ford designed the tranny to last the life of the Explorer. So to prevent any fluid change within the first 150k miles, they removed the tranny dipstick. In my opinion, I think they're just trying to save cost.

 

[Charlie's_93EB]

wow now that is the dumass thing that ihave ever hered of, wait.....do you have an auto ora five speed?

 

[explorermike94]

some ponitac sunfires and Honda passports are this way as well. I am a transmission mechanic so this makes it a pain in the ass to do a pain drop on them.

 

[GaSouthern1]

That is absolutely retarted

 

[Crankcase]

That is the dumbest thing I have ever heard!!!! What happens if you get a leak from a pinhole?

How would you ever check the fluid level

 

[etc]

I guess it's ford's way of bringing in the money on service. Some shops will say no cause it's too much hassle so the owner only has the option of going back to the dealer...heh

 

[viking37]

I guess I'm not the only driver that thinks this is DUMB. A pin hole leak could drain all your fluid and you wouldnt know until the tran. burned up. I tow a trailer which puts a little more stress on the unit. I am driving a 2002 XLT auto with trailer package. How does ford check the fluid. In older units there was a transmission modulator valve tied to the vaccuum line and if it went you could loose all your fluid without knowing it. Will call ford and see if they can install dip stick.

 

[X~FACTOR]

Isn't there a gauge to say if you have low level of tranny fluid? For Ford to eliminate the dipstick, they must be confident that the tranny is strong enough to withstand towing for the life of the truck.

 

[viking37]

There is no gauge that I know of and I cant take it back to ford when i'm on the road. What if i develope a leak on the road and if I can't monitor the fluid level i could destroy the tranny. Next thing they will do is eliminate the OIL DIPSTICK. Hope someone has an answer. I just found this site and think its great. Good Info..

 

[sapogmxr]

Drill a hole in your tranny and make room for a new dip stick.. J/k of course....

 

[etc]

Out of curiosity, how hard would it be to add a dipstick to the transmission?

 

[Ford_Racing_Guy]

some of the new volkswagon jettas or golfs are like this too,

and you can only put the tranny fluid in with a special machine that only dealers have!