Fluid Level Check
FLUID LEVEL CHECKLow fluid level can cause a variety of conditions because it allows the pump to take in air along with the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too high. When the transmission has too much fluid, the geartrain churns up foam and cause the same conditions which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transmission vent where it may be mistaken for a leak.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level. It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
Fluid level is checked with the engine running at curb idle speed, the transmission in NEUTRAL and the transmission fluid at normal operating temperature. The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle on level ground.
The transmission fluid level can be checked two ways.
PROCEDURE ONE
1. Transmission fluid must be at normal operating temperature for accurate fluid level check. Drive vehicle if necessary to bring fluid temperature up to normal hot operating temperature of 82°C (180°F).
2. Position vehicle on level surface.
3. Start and run engine at curb idle speed.
4. Apply parking brakes.
5. SHIFT transmission momentarily into all gear ranges.
5. Shift transmission momentarily into all gear ranges.
Then shift transmission back to NEUTRAL.
6. Clean top of filler tube and dipstick to keep dirt from entering tube.
7. Remove dipstick (1) and check fluid level as follows:
a. Correct acceptable level is in crosshatch area.
b. Correct maximum level is to MAX arrow mark.
c. Incorrect level is at or below MIN line.
d. If fluid is low, add only enough Mopar(R) ATF +4 to restore correct level. Do not overfill.
PROCEDURE TWO
1. Start engine and apply parking brake.
2. Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approximately 2 seconds.
3. Shift the transmission into REVERSE for approximately 2 seconds.
4. Shift the transmission into PARK.
5. Hook up DRB(R) scan tool and select engine.
6. Select sensors.
7. Read the transmission temperature value.
8. Compare the fluid temperature value with the chart.
9. Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the dipstick according to the chart.
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission, wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully drain from
the fill tube into the transmission before rechecking the fluid level.
10. Check transmission for leaks.