Transmission Fluid Level Check: Material

Fig 1: Materials

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fluid Fill Reference 

Fig 2: Identifying Transmission Fluid Level

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

1. Using the scan tool (WDS), monitor the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) using PID: TFT.
2. Start the vehicle.
NOTE: Engine idle speed is approximately 650 rpm.
3. While proceeding with this procedure, run the engine until the transmission fluid temperature is between 27°C - 49°C (80°F - 120°F).
4. Move the range selector lever slowly through each gear, stopping in each position and allowing the transmission to engage.
   Fig 3: Identifying Range Indicator

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
5. Place the range selector lever in the PARK position.
6. With the engine running, position the vehicle on a hoist and set it as close to level as possible.
7. Hold the larger drain plug with a wrench and remove the small (center) fluid level indicating plug using a 3/16-inch Allen key.
   Fig 4: Removing Small (Center) Fluid Level Indicating Plug

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
8. Install the special tool into the pan.
   Fig 5: Installing Special Tool Into Pan

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Prior to filling the special tool with clean transmission fluid, make sure that the canister is clean.
Fig 6: Identifying Filling Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
9. Fill the special tool with clean automatic transmission fluid.
10. Hang the special tool under the vehicle.

    Position it upright and close to the transmission.

    Fig 7: Hanging Special Tool Under Vehicle

    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
11. Connect the special tools.
    • Connect the open end of the fluid hose from the Fluid Transporter/Evacuator/Injector to the Fluid Level and Fill Plug Adapter at the bottom of the transmission fluid pan.
      Fig 8: Connecting Open End Of Fluid Hose From Fluid Transporter

      Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
12. Apply a maximum of 206.85 kPa (30 psi) to the open end of the vacuum/pressure hose from the special tool. Fluid will immediately start flowing out of the special tool into the transmission fluid pan.
    Fig 9: Applying Air Pressure To Fluid Transporter Vacuum Hose

    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
13. Add one pint of transmission fluid into the fluid pan. Stop the process by releasing the air pressure and removing the air nozzle from the end of the hose.
14. Inspect the fluid level in the special tool. If the fluid drains back into the canister, the transmission is full. If no fluid drains back, more fluid will need to be added. Repeat steps 12 and 13.
15. Once the transmission is full, place a hand vacuum pump on the open end of the vacuum/pressure hose of the special tool and apply vacuum to the system. This will pull out any extra fluid trapped in the system and direct it into the container.
    Fig 10: Inspecting Fluid Level In Special Tool

    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
16. Allow the fluid to drain. Make sure that the fluid temperature is between 27°C - 49°C (80°F - 120°F). When the fluid comes out as a thin stream or drip, the fluid is at the correct level.
    Fig 11: Identifying Drain Fluid

    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
17. Reinstall the small (center) fluid level indicating plug using a 3/16-inch Allen key.
    Fig 12: Installing Small (Center) Fluid Level Indicating Plug

    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
18. Check the operation of the transmission by moving the range selector lever slowly through each gear, stopping in each position and allowing the transmission to engage.