1997 Ford Explorer Changing Transmission Fluid Removed Pan There Plastic Top

1997 FORD EXPLORER
200,000 MILES
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JKOST
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Changing transmission fluid when I removed the pan. There was a plastic top shaped plug with an o-ring on it sitting at the bottom of the pan. Can't find where it goes, not sure what it is. Any ideas?
Nov 3, 2012 at 11:45 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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Not part of an old filter neck is it?
Nov 3, 2012 at 11:46 PM
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JKOST
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The new filter had nothing like that on it. it looks like a small spinning top toy, with an o-ring on the larger end.
Nov 4, 2012 at 12:34 AM
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MHPAUTOS
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Can't place it, can you post a pic at all?
Nov 4, 2012 at 12:59 AM
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CARADIODOC
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OH NO!!! You need a new transmission!

That is the plug used on the assembly line to keep debris out. Throw it away. It gets shoved in when they install the dipstick.
Nov 4, 2012 at 1:41 AM
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JKOST
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Your joking about the new transmission right? That makes sense, it is about the same size as the dipstick hole.
Nov 4, 2012 at 3:05 AM
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CARADIODOC
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Yes, the new transmission comment was sarcasm because that is the most opposite of the good news. All that plug you found means is no one has ever had the transmission pan off before. It is supposed to be tossed.
Nov 4, 2012 at 6:03 AM
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