Automatic Transmission - Checking Fluid Level Cold (99-5-3)

Publication date: 1999-03-22
Reference number: 99-5-3

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CHECKING FLUID LEVEL COLD

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 99-5-3

TRANSMISSION - CHECKING TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL COLD - SERVICE TIP

APPLICATION

Model(s): Ford: 1997 Thunderbird

1997-99 Contour, Crown Victoria, Mustang, Taurus

Lincoln-Mercury: 1997-98 Mark VIII

1997-99 Continental, Grand Marquis, Mystique, Sable, Town Car

1999 Cougar

Light Truck: 1997-99 Econoline, Expedition, Explorer, F-150, F-250 LD, Mountaineer, Ranger, Windstar

1998-99 Navigator

1999 Super Duty F Series Bulletin No.: 99-5-3 Date: March 22, 1999

ISSUE

Some vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission/transaxle are being overfilled with transmission fluid after repairs and during the pre-delivery inspection. Over-filling the transmission/transaxle with transmission fluid may cause transmission shift concerns and/or internal transmission/transaxle damage. The 1999 Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Manual is being revised for clarity.

ACTION

The appropriate year Workshop Manual contains the proper transmission fluid checking and adding procedure specific to each vehicle model. Prior to the update of the Pre-Delivery Inspection Manual, refer to the appropriate model year Workshop Manual by vehicle line for the proper information on checking and adding transmission fluid. Dipstick application is model dependent (Fig 1 ).

NOTE: Transmission fluid level on the dipstick changes as the fluid achieves normal operating temperature. Transmission fluid expands as temperature increases. During pre-delivery inspection, do not add/remove transmission fluid when the fluid temperature is below normal operating temperature (between 66-77°C (150-170°F)).

As stated in the Workshop Manual, normal operating temperature is reached after driving approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles). Then with the transmission in Park (P), the engine at idle, and foot on the brake, move the range selector through all gears. Place the range selector back in the Park position, set the parking brake, and check fluid level.

Over-filling or under-filling transmission fluid may cause shift concerns and/or internal transmission/transaxle damage.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

WARRANTY STATUS: Information Only.

OASIS CODES: 504000, 510000, 590000

Fig 1: Transmission Dipstick Fluid Level Markings