Procedures

STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK

FLUID LEVEL CHECK USING THE DIP STICK

1. Verify that the vehicle is level.

WARNING: There is a risk of accident from vehicle starting off by itself when engine is running. There is a risk of injury from contusions and burns if you insert your hands into the engine when it is started or when it is running. Secure vehicle to prevent it from moving off by itself. Wear properly fastened and close-fitting work clothes. Do not touch hot or rotating parts.

2. Actuate the service brake. Start the engine and let it run at idle speed in selector lever position "P".
3. Shift through the transmission modes several times with the vehicle stationary and the engine idling.
4. With the engine running, raise the vehicle.
5. Remove the belly pan if equipped Belly Pan - Removal.




6. Remove the differential fill plug (1).

7. Monitor the transmission oil temperature using the appropriate scan tool.




8. Using Dip Stick 10323 (1), check the transmission fluid level by inserting the tool into the transmission as shown.
9. The Dip Stick is calibrated for cold inspections ranging from 45-55°C (113 - 131°F) and hot inspections ranging from 80-90°C (176 - 194°F)
10. Add or remove oil as necessary based upon the operating temperature of the transmission.






NOTE: Replace the O-rings before reinstalling the plugs.

11. To reduce the fluid level or drain the transmission, remove the cross car cradle brace (1).
12. Remove the small plug (1) to adjust fluid level. Remove the large plug (2) to drain the case.
13. Install and tighten plug (1) to 8 Nm (71in. lbs.), tighten plug (2) to 51 Nm (38 ft. lbs.)
14. Shift through the transmission modes several times and recheck the oil level
15. Once the oil level is correct, install a new O-ring seal to the plug and re-install. Tighten the plug to 51 Nm (38 ft. lbs.).
16. Install the cross car brace and tighten the bolts to 90 Nm (66 ft. lbs.)
17. Install the belly pan if equipped Belly Pan - Installation.

FLUID CONDITION

It is also important to check the condition of the fluid. Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely. If there is any doubt about its condition, drain out a sample for a double check. Mopar(R) AW1 when new is red in color. The fluid is dyed red so it can be identified from other fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin to look darker in color and may eventually become brown. This is normal.Mopar(R) AW1 also has a unique odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid change.