Transmission Fluid Level - Inspection Procedure
NUMBER: 21-11-99GROUP: Transmission
DATE: Jul. 23, 1999
THIS BULLETIN SUPERSEDES TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 21-13-98, DATED OCT. 16, 1998, WHICH SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM YOUR FILES AND NOTED IN THE 1998 TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN MANUAL (PUBLICATION NO. 81-699-99003). ALL REVISIONS ARE HIGHLIGHTED WITH **ASTERISKS** AND INCLUDE CHANGES TO THE FLUID/FILTER REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE AND ADDING ADDITIONAL MODELS AND MODEL YEARS.
SUBJECT:
Transmission Fluid Level Inspection Procedure/Service Cautions
MODELS:
**2000 (AN) Dakota**
**2000 (DN) Durango**
1999 - **2000** (WJ) Grand Cherokee
NOTE:
THIS INFORMATION APPLIES TO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 45RFE TRANSMISSION.
DISCUSSION:
The 45RFE transmission, **newly introduced in the 1999 model year on Grand Cherokee models and for 2000 Dakota and Durango models, has some unique service features** compared with its predecessors. The following are some items to consider during service:
Fluid Level Inspection
1. Warm the fluid to at least 21° C (70° F.) by operating the vehicle.
2. Measure the transmission fluid temperature using the DRB III(R).
3. Move the gear selector through drive and reverse. Place the gear selector in Park.
4. Check the fluid level against the fluid level/temperature chart (Figure 1).
NOTE:
WHEN COLD (BELOW 10° C {50° F}) THE FLUID LEVEL WILL NOT REGISTER ON THE DIPSTICK.
Fluid/Filter Replacement
Accurate fluid level is difficult to determine cold. Initially add only 5
quarts of fluid during the refill procedure. **This amount will allow the engine to be started and the transmission to be operated in neutral until the transmission temperature has reached at least 21 C (70° F.)**. Once the fluid temperature is known, the final amount can be added without overfilling the transmission. Additionally, during this procedure, pressure switch and/or loss of prime DTC's may be set. If they are, erase them using the DRB Ill� before returning the vehicle to the customer.
POLICY: Information Only