Cannot read the transmission dipstick

FLOOGLEMAN

MEMBER
1991 JEEP CHEROKEE
4.0L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
162,000 MILES

I changed the transmission fluid filter and fluid and gasket and the new fluid is so freaking clear that I can't read the stick. I can't do that trick where you slide the stick across the paper towel either because the stick is like curvy. Any tips? (The picture is when the engine is cold FYI, just meant to show the shape of the dipstick)

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1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Hi Floogleman,

Even though the fluid is new, you should still be able to see it when you turn the dipstick and have it reflect in the light. However, I know this can be difficult because it is harder when it is new.

Please see the picture attached. I circled in red where your hatch marks should be indicating the full level. The "S" curve in the dip stick is simply to keep the dip stick from banging around in the tube and creating a rattle noise or from coming out of the tube. The fluid should not be this high.

Here is a video that shows at the end how to check the fluid:

https://youtu.be/pHPkHP4m0SM

Here is another one that shows how to check it with the S type dip stick. Keep in mind, if you just can't see it and when you wipe it there is no fluid on the white rag, then you may not have put enough fluid in yet.

How many quarts did you put back in?

https://youtu.be/KMwshsmo6b8

Also, another trick you can do is when you pull the dip stick out to check it, pinch the stick in your pointer and thumb and run them down the stick until you reach the fluid. Again, if you don't feel it then you may not have put enough in yet.

Let me know if you need more help and we can come up with something. Thanks

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