I just drain the transmission from the plug hole (I did not remove the pan) and put 3 quart of transmission fluid in it. The dip stick shows the level on the hatch area. But, only 3 quarts? I would think it would take more than that even though it is drain and fill method.


What is the best way to check the level in the transmission?


2001 F250 5.4V8 4 speed automatic transmission.

 

I think I only got 3 quarts out of the 4R100 in my Excursion, but it's been a couple years. I used to subscribe to the factory shop manual, but I don't anymore. The only spec I can find is 6.5 quarts if you drain the torque converter, or 17 overall if you rebuild.

 

Thats why I check it before i drain it. should be in the 7-8 quart range thats what I got the last time I drained a 4r100 I pulled the pan though. But there wasn't that much in the pan after pulling the drain plug. the I always measure what comes out. Then you know it was full before you drained it and you know how much came out and how much you should put back in. Tom, didn't they get rid of the drain plug on the converter in either 2000-2001?

 

I do the same, it's tough to screw up when you measure what comes out.

Yep, I believe it was 2001. Which is why it's odd that the '04 shop manual instructs you to drain the converter.

 

Should be around 8 quarts from the pan alone. If you're doing the full flush you will need 20 quarts on hand.

First time my brother drained my pan it was around 8 quarts used from two five quart jugs.

You should be filling with the engine running as well.

 

It was August, 2001, which was well into the 2002 production. All 2001 trucks left the factory with a drain plug in the converter.

Draining only the pan should get 5-7 quarts out.

The level needs to be checked with the trans warmed up, after the shifter has been cycled to EVERY position, then left in Park, and the engine idling.

 

I get exactly 7 out of mine..