A couple years ago, my 2010 VW Routan with 160K miles was shifting hard, and I’d never had anything done to the transmission. So I took it to my local Chrysler place and asked for a fluid and filter change. It didn’t help the shifting, but I felt better about it. Recently I started getting a solenoid D error in the solenoid pack, so I used your videos on changing the solenoid pack. Extreme kudos, Dave! It went without a hitch. During the process, about 3 quarts drained out, and before starting the car, I put 3 quarts back in. Using your video on how to use the oil dipstick, it showed about 80 mm on the stick. I siphoned 1 quart out to get it back where it needed to be. Evidently, my local dealer put 1 quart too much back in when they serviced it for me previously. Evidently, they don’t always use their own procedures for properly ensuring the correct fluid level. BTW, my tranny is shifting smoothly again now with the new solenoid pack. 😊
Thanks! I had cooler lines fixed about 6 months ago on my 2014 Town and Country and has been shifting hard when it gets hot. Decided to order tool and check myself and had to add more than 3 quarts of atf-4 and now shifts great. Took it to the mechanic who replaced cooler lines and he said I was measuring wrong and had to use oil dipstick to get past stop and go to bottom of the pan. He is wrong and won't admit it. Hopefully didn't do any damage running it 3 quarts low.
Thank you David, I have been a MOPAR mechanic for over 50 years, retired now. Your explanation was clear and concise. You do better than even the factory training school guys in your clear explanations. I have reproduced the measurement markings as you describe, it was very helpful.
Many thanks. Its cool to hear from those in the same line of work. I appreciate the kind words as well and thanks for watching/commenting. Make sure to subscribe if you havent already.
It never fails to amaze me how we can even have simple dip sticks anymore. Could be graduated by trans temperature and give a readout on the dash. This is a European and GM type of ridiculously difficult ways to perform what should routine service.
With newer Toyotas a scan tool is needed to compare fluid temp and drain amount of a service plug? At least you can see where to put fluid. A normal dipstick would be better though.
You are right! such an importan part not being monitored on the dash. THe computer does it to an extend but overtime the tranny will succumb... for example: when T converter slipping is detected PCM will stop engaging however repeating this process daily will cause inevitable damaged over time. ..
Thank you! Imagine my frustration after changing my oil when I attempted to check the transmission level. I have been working my own cars for 50 years. They really don't want us under the hood anymore. You are providing a great service.
I purchased the dip stick from Dorman you suggested to me in a comment a while back and got a chart from Eric O. The next trick was a tool to get the temperature of the transmission. One of my higher end scanners did that so it was just a matter of putting the three things together to check the oil. Wow, it sure has become complicated. I did a video on that journey but you did a much better job on this video. Well done!
I had filmed parts of this video along time ago and in those clips I even used a laser thermometer and even taped a thermometer to the pan to see if any big differences in temp.....it really wasnt that much difference which was surprising......i just decided to not include the footage. Thanks Wyatt for always watching and for the support!
Summary: 10mm (cold level) - 40mm (hot level), using the engine dipstick as the measuring tool to "bottom out" in the transmission level check tube (says "dealer only"). You can mark / modify the dipstick (engine) with these marks (either permante or temp) to check the fluid level. "cold level" - Vehicle Idled ~10 minutes, run through gear changes. (~ 75 degree F) "hot level" - vehicle driven ~ 10 miles, nominal operating temperature ( ~ 180 degree F) DUde, super helpful. I'm an engineer and love how you made a simple, easy solution that works with the van, just using the actual dipstick. Rediculous that RAM couldn't have just done this for the promaster, but I get that they're being cheap and simplifying things.
Thanks Trey for the comment and for watching. Sometimes you just have to take a step back and relook at the situation and what you have in front of you.
hello, one question, the measurement is 10 mm exact or is it the minimum when cold, I have seen out there that it is 5-15 mm when cold and 40-45 when hot. I believe that measurements are never so exact, that's why depticks have a minimum and maximum. a greeting.
David, your technical videos have been a blessing to me and have helped me tremendously , especially regarding the Dodge/Chrysler 3.6 pentastar engines / 62te transmissions , the info you have provided is 5star, thankyou so much !!
Totally agree with SwineHoax. This guy is spot on. I’m happy not to be one of the jealous 52 knuckleheads. 4.2 thousand ups? Yeah, that says it all. Thanks so much love it. Clear and concise. A real pro.
Man you are the best, I did a Transmission filter change and saw a few other videos and no one explained it like you. I was freaking out today that I didn't have enough trans fluid, now I know I have too much. I will get it out asap.
Fantastic video tutorial, very well explained, a great help for someone like myself trying to learn and keeping our vehicle going, from the home garage, without dropping heaps of cash at a dealer shop etc. Thank you very much, really appreciate your effort.
What's not to like about a man who speaks in clear Anglo saxon english..thank you kindly seems you helped me out ..I liked the video and also subscribed
Thank you very much for this. The dipstick method is just so much easier. Now I can finally check my trans fluid without having to pay the dealer a crazy amount of money just to have them check it for me.
Wow! You have a great way of explaining something that seemed so foreign to me. The close-up shots were some of the best that I've seen in a video - great angles and lighting. Thanks so much!
THANK YOU. Paid for the aftermarket dipstick, my journey never gets about 140-160. Used the dipstick, made my marks, perfect…right at 5.5 quarts. THANK YOU AGAIN!!!!
David, thanks for all of your great videos. Our 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan just hit 100k miles and the dealership quoted us $1,200 for the 100k maintenance. I ended up doing the work myself and saving a ton of money, your videos were a huge help!
Great job! As you saw....once you know the steps its not that bad. Do it a few times and it becomes gravy and you can eventually do it in your sleep. Glad to see that the videos are helping. Thanks for reaching out and make sure to subscribe if you havent already.
Amazing tutorial I wish I watched this b4 buying a dipstick from Amazon for my 2016 Town and Country. Could have saved me a couple of dollars the one they said fit only goes halfway was like 4ft long 😆. I just did what you did to the oil dipstick works great and you explained everything so easy ty. You have a new subscriber looking forward to watch all the videos stay safe
From a woman's opinion here I think you did an Excellent breakdown on the levels and markings!!! Thank you! I'm going to attempt changing the transmission filter vs a flush. After doing some research, it's not a good idea to flush transmission fluid. Wish me luck!!
I've built two airplanes and countless classic cars. This has to be the best UA-cam I've ever seen. Based on this video, here is the procedure I used to replace the fluid in my 2014 Caravan. My truck has 59k miles and I bought it new so this is the first trans fluid change. No gasket was found on the pan so the factory must have used transmission RTV only. By removing all of the bolts on three sides of the pan and loosening the remaining bolts 1-2 turns, I was able to tip the pan and drain it into a catch pan. I measured the fluid I removed and it was approximately 6 quarts. Too much spilled on the floor for an exact measurement. Using my wire wheel, I removed the old gasket cement from the pan, case and all bolts. I cleaned the inside of the pan with gas and cleaned the magnet. After using gas, I cleaned the inside of the pan again using lacquer thinner so I didn’t leave any gasoline solvents in the pan. Once the pan & filter was out, I lowered the truck so the remaining fluid would drain faster. I did not want the remaining fluid to ruin the RTV or the new gasket. After two hours, I raised the front of the truck again. I installed the new filter and torqued the bolts to 40 inch pounds. I put a small bead of Permatex 81180 RTV on both sides of the Felpro gasket number TOS 18757, installed the pan, and finger tightened the bolts till the RTV started to squeeze out. I let it sit for 1 hour to cure. Next, I removed each bolt one at a time & dressed each bolt with LocTite Blue. I tightened the bolts using a cross pattern, tightening opposite sides till all bolts were 105 inch lbs. At 105 inch pounds the gasket started to squeeze out so it’s important not to over tighten. I left the transmission pan empty overnight so the RTV dried before adding fluid. Next morning, I started the truck and filled it with 4 quarts, ran for 10 min, added another 1.5 to the initial fill setting of 5.5 quarts. Drove the truck for 10 minutes. Fluid level was not on the dipstick, still too low. I used an infrared temperature detector to measure the trans temp which is the same tool I use to measure temps on air conditioning systems. I pointed the red infrared lite at the pan to get readings. My temp was 153 degrees meaning I needed appx 36mm of fluid on the dipstick. In total, it took 6.3 quarts. So far, no leaks. Hope this helps.
Your welcome and thanks for commenting. I have seen alot over filled....they have a trans issue or concern and then start adding fluid for some reason. Make sure to subscribe Larry.
Excellent video for the DIY'er. I also have the special tool but will implement this modification to allow me to check when fueling and checking all fluids. Thanks again for a great video.
Thank you so much man how didn't understanding how to read this special tool chart for my chrysler 300 but how you explain it was step by step made it very easy to understand so I wanna say thank you again
Thank you for your video! I watched the transmission range sensor videos because I am currently working on a 2010 Journey with the 62te transmission and I couldn't figure out the reason I couldn't get the sensor out. Nobody had a video on the replacement process except for you. Thank you very much!
I watched your three videos on the how to change the range selector three days ago and remembered everything that you said down to the tea you explained stuff very well I’m not subscribed very many things on UA-cam but I most definitely got you down. Look forward to seeing some more videos, I recommend this channel to anybody
Also be careful, I just got into trouble. There is a bend in the trans dip tube and in a certain orientation, the oil dipstick feels like it bottomed out, but it was something in the bend that felt that way. This caused me to overfill the trans by 3 liters!.... Something didn't feel right about adding almost 5 liters to the trans... So I looked at the video again to see how far down the dipstick went down in the tube and saw that mine was much higher. So I pushed a bit harder and it went down to the real stopper! I had to siphon out all the oil I had added and start over. In the end I was only down about 2 liters... So make sure you get past that bend in the tube and get to the real stopper. The handle of the dipstick should go below the air filter about a hand width or 3-4 inches (forgot to measure exactly how much) from the top of the tube. If yours only goes down a bit and stops at the bend, (the handle is above the air filter) try turning the dipstick 90 degrees and try again to get past the bend.
I think this is where I'm at. I wasn't sure if I was passing the "bottom out" spot, because on my Journey I hit a "bottom" with the dipstick above the air filter (no fluid) then another further down that make it seem way overfilled. I'm not sure which one is right. It didn't look like he hit anything at the "bend" so I'm wondering if I went down below the stop and really need more rather than being overfilled. I'm debating going to the dealer vs guessing.
I went to the junk yard and got a trans dip stick out of a 99 Sebring which has the same transaxle. I cut off the extra length and keep in my van. Works great.
The 99 Sebring didn’t come with the 6 speed trans. The 6 speed never came with a dipstick on any model. Most like the Sebring had the 4 speed. Either way…..as long as it’s long enough to bottom out you can make your marks and use it for sure. Otherwise don’t rely on the marking on that stick unless they match up to the same measurements as in the video
Very clear explanation. Makes good sense. Over the years doing a lot of transmissions starting with the cast iron Powergide what u find is that if u overfill them they will belch it out up a long Hill on a hot day. Ever drive behind a car going up Baker grade and it starts smoking? You're waiting for this guy to melt down but he never does. Then it stops smoking. Trans level is about right now. A little high, but functional
Thanks Bill for checking out this latest video. The older 41TE transmissions didnt like the level being at the high mark....they too would blow some fluid out the top of the dipstick tube...trick was to always keep it at the low mark.
Thanks for the video!! Watching it helped me figure out the issue with my 62TE. The little stopper bracket was misaligned, not allowing the special tool to even reach the end of the bracket, and when I tried to use the engine oil dipstick, it slid behind the bracket all the way to the pan. I dropped the pan, and had my wife insert and remove the dipstick repeatedly while I adjusted the bracket. If your tool goes into the tube about 16 inches, everything's good. If not, check the bracket. I don't know if this was installed wrong from the factory since this was my first fluid change, or if I bent it while I was getting the filter off. Either way, it's fixed now.
I have seen some people when they are wiggling the trans filter on or off....they bump that stopper and cause it to get out of line with the tube....then the special tool hits the top of the stopped and cant go any further. I actually measure a total length for my special tool so that I know when its fully seated incase that issue comes up being that it has happened to me in the past . I measure from the bottom of the tool up 16 inchs and make a mark. Then when I insert it into the tube I know when it should stop.....the 16 inch mark should be at the top of the tube. Thanks for watching and for the comment. Make sure to subscribe if you havent already
Thank you David. Just got my transmission fluid and filter changed. As a newbie, I used gasket, Fel-Pro TOS18757 to seal the pan. So far no leak yet from the gasket, although the gasket was torn at the outside edge. Hopefully it will seal the pan for another 50,000 miles and no debris inside the pan will go to my clutch. Roughly 5 quarts come out and I put 5 quarts back in. I checked the fluid level at cold side of the chart and measured roughly 22mm. It seem I overfilled it. Hopefully I will be fine since roughly same amount of fluid was exchanged. Thank you again. Hopefully everything will go well!
There is a safe range on the fluid that wont hurt if your slightly over or slightly under. Yeah I have seen those gaskets leak over time and learned not to use them......good old trans RTV always does the job. Thanks for commenting on another video and for following the channel.
The tool can be used on others where you dont have a long enough oil dipstick to check the fluid with such as a NAG trans. Thanks for watching and for the comment! Happy New Year!
From one retired tech to another, thanks for sharing the info, I need help with stuff that I'm "to old" to know.., but I still figure it out, thanks to guys like you (and Yes UA-cam) but seriously I love your teaching method and love your videos I definitely subscribed and I will be watching you hopefully learn a lot for me thank you I just found your Channel today keep up the nice videos and the good work
Thank you for this informative video. I have a 2010 Town and Country and actually took it to the local Chrysler dealer to have them check fluid levels in the transmission. I do not know if THEY even knew how to check the fluid. They put it on a rack and raised it up and noticed seepage. The vehicle has 298000 miles on it and that i know of has NEVER had the transmission fluid checked. They actually DECLINED to even check the transmission fluid level. They told me the seepage means that the transmission is actually leaking and they declined any further service work and sent me on my way. All i wanted was to know if i needed to add fluid. True almost 300k is a lot of miles but the mechanic in me just wanted to check the fluid level. Now i can check it myself.
Was told today after I took my 2013 200 to the dealership for a recall that the "transmission fluid" was leaking. This was a complete surprise to me because my car stays parked in a closed garage, and online sources like this say I would have noticed the red fluid under the car. I had recently driven the car so I know the fluid would at least be above cold. Took me a while to figure out there is no dipstick, despite my owner manual SAYS there is. Thank you for this guide. I was able to check the level with my oil dipstick, and even though I didn't put any measurements on it, I could easily see that there was at least 30-40mm when I pulled the dipstick back. This I think tells me that the levels are probably normal, which probably wouldn't be the case if there was a "decent" leak like the dealership service told me. I've placed white paper under the car and am going to check tomorrow to see anything leaked as another measure. At least this way, I can tell if they were trying to get me to pay for a $360 for total BS, or if there is any truth to their claims. Other guides say the reason of the leak would be due to normal wear and tear, not changing fluid, or impact/accident(which isn't the case). The cars barely 6 years old and only at 47000km, and owner manual recommends trans fluid change at 10 something years or 100k+ something millage, so normal wear and tear and from lack of changing fluid also seems really unlikely. Any serious persons please feel free to point any flaws in the logic I applied. I'm just using my reasoning based on all the online sources, combined with the likeliness that I'm being lied to due to odd circumstances to come to the result that I am most likely being targeted for a scam.
I see no issues with your reasoning. Simple checking in my opinion. You should be able to crawl underneath just enought to look with a flash light to see if you see anything obvious.
You are a valuable resource and this procedure, particularly the fluid level procedure on any modern Cvt transmission is critical to the longevity of that transaxle. Nissan transaxles are highly sensitive 2 fluid level and most importantly fluid temperature. Even the setting on your engine coolant is critical nowadays. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.
Yeah the cvt can be checked the exact same way. Its not a good trans and glad to see that we have gone away from it. Concept seemed valid but it generates to much heat and causes issues with our vehicles.....if you drive high speeds, long distances, on hot days, with car full of people.....the trans temp light will come on. Thanks for watching and for the comment!
That's a great video. I could not get the plastic cap off the transmission tube, so I called the Dodge dealer to ask how to get it off, and they told me not to mess with that, that only Dodge dealer does that. I told him I will do what ever I want to it, as I own it! Amazing telling me that, pretty lame! I guess it is stuck, so I will have to use pliers to grip and twist it. Thanks for showing this!
I second that!! ESPECIALLY the videos explaining how to change the solenoid pack in the transmission. I may have to watch those videos again; if changing the fluid doesn't fix the problem from a p0760 error code🙏🏼
I just saw a forum post on this very matter, a guy used a 36” zip-tie, made the marks and it worked brilliant. I have a ProMaster 1500, the engine oil dip-stick is a cable, I’m hesitant to mark that. The zip-tie is the best rout IMO.
The Chrysler method is expensive, overly complicated and ridiculous as is with many things about Chrysler products. Their method is insane. Thanks for a more common sense method. I always enjoy your videos and find them very helpful
Wow. the best explanation I found on internet. how hard to find such great channels with so specific clear explanation without extra useless information! Thank you!
I have 2005 low milage Chrysler PT Cruiser GT convertible. Do you have video for timing belt, tensioner and water pump replacement? As soon as covid is over it is on the dyno. What fun . You are a massively proficient instructor. I the Mopar motor head just discovered your videos. Keep it up.
I hadn’t thought of the transmission fluid temperature gauge on the U connect. Good catch.....hope I can remember in about another 50-60K miles when the fluid will need to be checked and probably changed.
Now here’s a dude who cares enough about his craft to speak about the subject intelligently and offer a solution to the “dealer only” scam. To those uploading videos purporting to offer a solution in their titles, take a lesson from this video on NOT how to be a douche bag! There is a video on UA-cam that is specifically titled: “ How to check the trans fluid on Dodge Journey” and the douche bag talks about not being able to check the fluid. All that aside, this video is downright awesome! So, I got to thinking about my trade/high school years many, many moons ago. My auto shop instructor mentioned a landmark Supreme Court case where it basically held that if a manufacturer made a certain widget to repair or service its product, that thing had to be provided to the consumer of its product free of charge. The principal being to ward off monopolies of items, products, or services that eliminate choice for the consumer. For instance, if Chevy mandates use of only AC Delco oil filters for its 2500 Silverados as a condition to accessing warranty coverage claims on the truck, then Chevy is obligated to provide the oil filter to 2500 Silverado owners at no charge since its forcing its customers to purchase GM exclusive parts despite a robust oil filter aftermarket that deprives the consumer of choice. I say all that to make the point that if these automakers are building their products to have the consumer bring it back to the dealership for service, they just built exclusivity into their product that undermines the consumer’s choice in the free market. So, I’m especially grateful to an individual who broadcasts ideas that work where the consumer has choice. Thank you.
Those were alot of kind words. I am always glad to hear how the videos help people out. I do get some grief from people every now and then so reading something like this allows me to focus on the good and forget about that one comment or that one person full of negativity. My whole purpose is to show people that with the right tools and the knowledge....almost all thses repairs I show can be done. So the knowledge is what I give....the tools is up to them and in most cases I tell them where to get them lol. I feel the information should be shared with everyone and not hoarded. I just wish it was something I could do full time. Currently it doesnt pay more then my day job so for now I film when I can and try to answer as many questions as possible in between. Know that there are viewers like yourself out there appreciating the videos I put out just makes me want to step up my game with each one and to try to live up to what you expect and deserve. Thanks again for kind words!
@@MotorCityMechanic David, just remember that you can never please everyone no matter how hard you try. I think that it is one of the best video's on car maintenance out there. Keep up the good work and be sure to Thank those negative butt hole's that how nothing more important to do in life. You are doing a great service to the DIY people in America. Carry On.
So strange, saw my temp at 177 today and wondered if that was in range. Perfect timing to find this vid. QUESTION: if it’s running hot 200+ does that mean fluid is low?
Very great video, nice recap. Had a teacher in tech school like that. He was hands down the best teacher anybody I know ever hand. So,,, how long do these transmission usually last. I asked a junk yard friend and he said trouble seems to start after 200,000 miles in ave situations. I have a 09 TnC with 153k mi I just purchased and it just had the trans serviced few 1000 ago, running well.
This guy is one of the BEST mechanic technical video creator I've seen. Very clear, precise information and thorough explanations.
Many many thanks for those kind words. It’s much appreciated.
He really is the best of the best
Very Well explained. Seems you Do Like your Job/career
Can you leave the dip stick in place of that dealer cap?
@@angelgomez2013 No! Use the dealer cap!
This man is an OUTSTANDING instructor. I routinely come to him for guidance, and it’s always spot on.
A couple years ago, my 2010 VW Routan with 160K miles was shifting hard, and I’d never had anything done to the transmission. So I took it to my local Chrysler place and asked for a fluid and filter change. It didn’t help the shifting, but I felt better about it. Recently I started getting a solenoid D error in the solenoid pack, so I used your videos on changing the solenoid pack. Extreme kudos, Dave! It went without a hitch. During the process, about 3 quarts drained out, and before starting the car, I put 3 quarts back in. Using your video on how to use the oil dipstick, it showed about 80 mm on the stick. I siphoned 1 quart out to get it back where it needed to be. Evidently, my local dealer put 1 quart too much back in when they serviced it for me previously. Evidently, they don’t always use their own procedures for properly ensuring the correct fluid level. BTW, my tranny is shifting smoothly again now with the new solenoid pack. 😊
What a legend you are. An amazing teacher, patient and willing to show step by step. And keeps it simple.
A gifted man who is not selfish dropping the jewels
Thanks! I had cooler lines fixed about 6 months ago on my 2014 Town and Country and has been shifting hard when it gets hot. Decided to order tool and check myself and had to add more than 3 quarts of atf-4 and now shifts great. Took it to the mechanic who replaced cooler lines and he said I was measuring wrong and had to use oil dipstick to get past stop and go to bottom of the pan. He is wrong and won't admit it. Hopefully didn't do any damage running it 3 quarts low.
Thank you David, I have been a MOPAR mechanic for over 50 years, retired now. Your explanation was clear and concise. You do better than even the factory training school guys in your clear explanations. I have reproduced the measurement markings as you describe, it was very helpful.
Many thanks. Its cool to hear from those in the same line of work. I appreciate the kind words as well and thanks for watching/commenting. Make sure to subscribe if you havent already.
Thanks! This is for the rocker arm replacement 5 part series too!
Thanks for watching the videos and for supporting the channel
Only guy I need to explain anything.. he makes it easy
Thanks for watching David
It never fails to amaze me how we can even have simple dip sticks anymore. Could be graduated by trans temperature and give a readout on the dash. This is a European and GM type of ridiculously difficult ways to perform what should routine service.
With newer Toyotas a scan tool is needed to compare fluid temp and drain amount of a service plug? At least you can see where to put fluid. A normal dipstick would be better though.
This is a chrysler item
Excellent video. Thank you so much..
You are right! such an importan part not being monitored on the dash. THe computer does it to an extend but overtime the tranny will succumb... for example: when T converter slipping is detected PCM will stop engaging however repeating this process daily will cause inevitable damaged over time. ..
Very straight forward. I highly recommend. I also appreciate that there isn't a huge story before you get the information you need.
THIS IS HANDS DOWN THE BEST VIDEO ON UA-cam FOR THE 62TE TRANSMISSION! wowww thank you so much :)
Thank you! Imagine my frustration after changing my oil when I attempted to check the transmission level. I have been working my own cars for 50 years. They really don't want us under the hood anymore. You are providing a great service.
How do I know where's up
I purchased the dip stick from Dorman you suggested to me in a comment a while back and got a chart from Eric O. The next trick was a tool to get the temperature of the transmission. One of my higher end scanners did that so it was just a matter of putting the three things together to check the oil. Wow, it sure has become complicated. I did a video on that journey but you did a much better job on this video. Well done!
I had filmed parts of this video along time ago and in those clips I even used a laser thermometer and even taped a thermometer to the pan to see if any big differences in temp.....it really wasnt that much difference which was surprising......i just decided to not include the footage. Thanks Wyatt for always watching and for the support!
This guy is an amazing mechanic he knows how to explain things really well thanks for posting
Summary: 10mm (cold level) - 40mm (hot level), using the engine dipstick as the measuring tool to "bottom out" in the transmission level check tube (says "dealer only"). You can mark / modify the dipstick (engine) with these marks (either permante or temp) to check the fluid level.
"cold level" - Vehicle Idled ~10 minutes, run through gear changes. (~ 75 degree F)
"hot level" - vehicle driven ~ 10 miles, nominal operating temperature ( ~ 180 degree F)
DUde, super helpful. I'm an engineer and love how you made a simple, easy solution that works with the van, just using the actual dipstick. Rediculous that RAM couldn't have just done this for the promaster, but I get that they're being cheap and simplifying things.
Thanks Trey for the comment and for watching. Sometimes you just have to take a step back and relook at the situation and what you have in front of you.
hello, one question, the measurement is 10 mm exact or is it the minimum when cold, I have seen out there that it is 5-15 mm when cold and 40-45 when hot. I believe that measurements are never so exact, that's why depticks have a minimum and maximum. a greeting.
David, your technical videos have been a blessing to me and have helped me tremendously , especially regarding the Dodge/Chrysler 3.6 pentastar engines / 62te transmissions , the info you have provided is 5star, thankyou so much !!
Man I tell you( you're good at what you do ) the help you provide is unpresidented,thank you.
Thanks Smitty! Always happy to share what knowledge I have and glad to see that others enjoy. Make sure to subscribe
Totally agree with SwineHoax. This guy is spot on. I’m happy not to be one of the jealous 52 knuckleheads. 4.2 thousand ups? Yeah, that says it all. Thanks so much love it. Clear and concise. A real pro.
Man you are the best, I did a Transmission filter change and saw a few other videos and no one explained it like you. I was freaking out today that I didn't have enough trans fluid, now I know I have too much. I will get it out asap.
Love your videos man! Couldn’t possibly be explained better. Thank you for taking the time to make them.
Fantastic video tutorial, very well explained, a great help for someone like myself trying to learn and keeping our vehicle going, from the home garage, without dropping heaps of cash at a dealer shop etc. Thank you very much, really appreciate your effort.
You are a good teacher, thank you for all educational videos
This is the first video that makes this really simple. I’ve done it before, but didn’t have such an easy explanation. Good job!
Many thanks for watching! Appreciate the feedback as well.
You've got a lot of great Chrysler mechanic knowledge. If I could I would take my vehicles to you!
Thanks. Good info. Only thing not mentioned(unless I missed it) is to check while idling in park.
I did fail to mention it and then changed the title of the video to show it. Thanks for watching.
What's not to like about a man who speaks in clear Anglo saxon english..thank you kindly seems you helped me out ..I liked the video and also subscribed
Thanks Mike for the feedback and kind words. Make sure to subscribe.
Thank you very much for this. The dipstick method is just so much easier. Now I can finally check my trans fluid without having to pay the dealer a crazy amount of money just to have them check it for me.
Glad the video helped out. Appreciate the comment/feedback Eddie. Make sure to subscribe and Merry Christmas
Wow! You have a great way of explaining something that seemed so foreign to me. The close-up shots were some of the best that I've seen in a video - great angles and lighting. Thanks so much!
I agree, even getting close for the dipstick markign and dremel shots with good lighting and minimal glare.
THANK YOU. Paid for the aftermarket dipstick, my journey never gets about 140-160. Used the dipstick, made my marks, perfect…right at 5.5 quarts. THANK YOU AGAIN!!!!
David, thanks for all of your great videos. Our 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan just hit 100k miles and the dealership quoted us $1,200 for the 100k maintenance. I ended up doing the work myself and saving a ton of money, your videos were a huge help!
Great job! As you saw....once you know the steps its not that bad. Do it a few times and it becomes gravy and you can eventually do it in your sleep. Glad to see that the videos are helping. Thanks for reaching out and make sure to subscribe if you havent already.
Amazing tutorial I wish I watched this b4 buying a dipstick from Amazon for my 2016 Town and Country. Could have saved me a couple of dollars the one they said fit only goes halfway was like 4ft long 😆. I just did what you did to the oil dipstick works great and you explained everything so easy ty. You have a new subscriber looking forward to watch all the videos stay safe
From a woman's opinion here I think you did an
Excellent breakdown on the levels and markings!!!
Thank you!
I'm going to attempt changing the transmission filter vs a flush. After doing some research, it's not a good idea to flush transmission fluid. Wish me luck!!
I've built two airplanes and countless classic cars. This has to be the best UA-cam I've ever seen. Based on this video, here is the procedure I used to replace the fluid in my 2014 Caravan. My truck has 59k miles and I bought it new so this is the first trans fluid change. No gasket was found on the pan so the factory must have used transmission RTV only. By removing all of the bolts on three sides of the pan and loosening the remaining bolts 1-2 turns, I was able to tip the pan and drain it into a catch pan. I measured the fluid I removed and it was approximately 6 quarts. Too much spilled on the floor for an exact measurement.
Using my wire wheel, I removed the old gasket cement from the pan, case and all bolts. I cleaned the inside of the pan with gas and cleaned the magnet. After using gas, I cleaned the inside of the pan again using lacquer thinner so I didn’t leave any gasoline solvents in the pan.
Once the pan & filter was out, I lowered the truck so the remaining fluid would drain faster. I did not want the remaining fluid to ruin the RTV or the new gasket. After two hours, I raised the front of the truck again. I installed the new filter and torqued the bolts to 40 inch pounds. I put a small bead of Permatex 81180 RTV on both sides of the Felpro gasket number TOS 18757, installed the pan, and finger tightened the bolts till the RTV started to squeeze out. I let it sit for 1 hour to cure.
Next, I removed each bolt one at a time & dressed each bolt with LocTite Blue. I tightened the bolts using a cross pattern, tightening opposite sides till all bolts were 105 inch lbs. At 105 inch pounds the gasket started to squeeze out so it’s important not to over tighten. I left the transmission pan empty overnight so the RTV dried before adding fluid.
Next morning, I started the truck and filled it with 4 quarts, ran for 10 min, added another 1.5 to the initial fill setting of 5.5 quarts. Drove the truck for 10 minutes. Fluid level was not on the dipstick, still too low. I used an infrared temperature detector to measure the trans temp which is the same tool I use to measure temps on air conditioning systems. I pointed the red infrared lite at the pan to get readings. My temp was 153 degrees meaning I needed appx 36mm of fluid on the dipstick. In total, it took 6.3 quarts. So far, no leaks.
Hope this helps.
Many thanks Barry for the awesome feedback! I do appreciate those kind words as well. Make sure to subscribe.
Awesome video David! Much more in depth than my version.
Many thanks!
Thanks buddy. I was going crazy trying to figure out how to do it myself. Just got the car and found out its 2 quarts overfilled!!!!!
Your welcome and thanks for commenting. I have seen alot over filled....they have a trans issue or concern and then start adding fluid for some reason. Make sure to subscribe Larry.
A terrific job of explaining the dipstick modification. thanks. I just bought a 2016 Caravan !
Excellent video for the DIY'er. I also have the special tool but will implement this modification to allow me to check when fueling and checking all fluids. Thanks again for a great video.
Thank you so much man how didn't understanding how to read this special tool chart for my chrysler 300 but how you explain it was step by step made it very easy to understand so I wanna say thank you again
Thanks!
Thank you for your video! I watched the transmission range sensor videos because I am currently working on a 2010 Journey with the 62te transmission and I couldn't figure out the reason I couldn't get the sensor out. Nobody had a video on the replacement process except for you. Thank you very much!
Very nicely done sir , nice smooth talk and nothing excessive 👍
Thanks Jim for checking this video out. Make sure to subscribe.
I watched your three videos on the how to change the range selector three days ago and remembered everything that you said down to the tea you explained stuff very well I’m not subscribed very many things on UA-cam but I most definitely got you down. Look forward to seeing some more videos, I recommend this channel to anybody
Awesome! No idea why they didn't have the stick. How many trans were lost to that hassle of having to sched an appnt to check it. Thanks for the tips.
Also be careful, I just got into trouble. There is a bend in the trans dip tube and in a certain orientation, the oil dipstick feels like it bottomed out, but it was something in the bend that felt that way. This caused me to overfill the trans by 3 liters!.... Something didn't feel right about adding almost 5 liters to the trans... So I looked at the video again to see how far down the dipstick went down in the tube and saw that mine was much higher. So I pushed a bit harder and it went down to the real stopper! I had to siphon out all the oil I had added and start over. In the end I was only down about 2 liters... So make sure you get past that bend in the tube and get to the real stopper. The handle of the dipstick should go below the air filter about a hand width or 3-4 inches (forgot to measure exactly how much) from the top of the tube. If yours only goes down a bit and stops at the bend, (the handle is above the air filter) try turning the dipstick 90 degrees and try again to get past the bend.
I think this is where I'm at. I wasn't sure if I was passing the "bottom out" spot, because on my Journey I hit a "bottom" with the dipstick above the air filter (no fluid) then another further down that make it seem way overfilled. I'm not sure which one is right. It didn't look like he hit anything at the "bend" so I'm wondering if I went down below the stop and really need more rather than being overfilled. I'm debating going to the dealer vs guessing.
That is a great explanation, very clear and precise.
Many thanks!
Very good idea on how to use the engine oil dipstick to measure the transmission fluid. This helps me big time. 😊 thanks a bunch.
Thank you ! Great hack for measuring atf level , please note that engine must be running when checking transmission atf level
I went to the junk yard and got a trans dip stick out of a 99 Sebring which has the same transaxle. I cut off the extra length and keep in my van. Works great.
The 99 Sebring didn’t come with the 6 speed trans. The 6 speed never came with a dipstick on any model. Most like the Sebring had the 4 speed. Either way…..as long as it’s long enough to bottom out you can make your marks and use it for sure. Otherwise don’t rely on the marking on that stick unless they match up to the same measurements as in the video
Very clear explanation. Makes good sense. Over the years doing a lot of transmissions starting with the cast iron Powergide what u find is that if u overfill them they will belch it out up a long Hill on a hot day. Ever drive behind a car going up Baker grade and it starts smoking? You're waiting for this guy to melt down but he never does. Then it stops smoking. Trans level is about right now. A little high, but functional
Thanks Bill for checking out this latest video. The older 41TE transmissions didnt like the level being at the high mark....they too would blow some fluid out the top of the dipstick tube...trick was to always keep it at the low mark.
Great video, I just got a 2008 t&c with no tyranny dipstick, now I can save a long trip to dealer. Thanks
Glad to help
Thanks for the video!! Watching it helped me figure out the issue with my 62TE. The little stopper bracket was misaligned, not allowing the special tool to even reach the end of the bracket, and when I tried to use the engine oil dipstick, it slid behind the bracket all the way to the pan. I dropped the pan, and had my wife insert and remove the dipstick repeatedly while I adjusted the bracket. If your tool goes into the tube about 16 inches, everything's good. If not, check the bracket. I don't know if this was installed wrong from the factory since this was my first fluid change, or if I bent it while I was getting the filter off. Either way, it's fixed now.
I have seen some people when they are wiggling the trans filter on or off....they bump that stopper and cause it to get out of line with the tube....then the special tool hits the top of the stopped and cant go any further. I actually measure a total length for my special tool so that I know when its fully seated incase that issue comes up being that it has happened to me in the past . I measure from the bottom of the tool up 16 inchs and make a mark. Then when I insert it into the tube I know when it should stop.....the 16 inch mark should be at the top of the tube. Thanks for watching and for the comment. Make sure to subscribe if you havent already
Thank u David: really i got very easy and good idea to measure transmission oil level👍
Thank you for taking the time to watch the video and for the comment! Make sure to subscribe
Excellent video by an excellent teacher. Thank you and God Bless.
Many thanks Tom! I appreciate that feedback. Make sure to subscribe.
Thank you David. Just got my transmission fluid and filter changed. As a newbie, I used gasket, Fel-Pro TOS18757 to seal the pan. So far no leak yet from the gasket, although the gasket was torn at the outside edge. Hopefully it will seal the pan for another 50,000 miles and no debris inside the pan will go to my clutch.
Roughly 5 quarts come out and I put 5 quarts back in. I checked the fluid level at cold side of the chart and measured roughly 22mm. It seem I overfilled it. Hopefully I will be fine since roughly same amount of fluid was exchanged. Thank you again.
Hopefully everything will go well!
There is a safe range on the fluid that wont hurt if your slightly over or slightly under. Yeah I have seen those gaskets leak over time and learned not to use them......good old trans RTV always does the job. Thanks for commenting on another video and for following the channel.
That's great stuff. I've actually got that dorman dipstick and now I have a nice range to use since I can't read the exact trans temp.
The tool can be used on others where you dont have a long enough oil dipstick to check the fluid with such as a NAG trans. Thanks for watching and for the comment! Happy New Year!
Great info. I didn't think of using the engine dipstick. Feels good to find a video that teaches something useful.
Great video
Thank you David!! YOU are THE MAN!
Your welcome!
You do an absolutely fabulous job explaining things
Thanks Jim. Appreciate the feedback and for you watching. Make sure to subscribe
From one retired tech to another, thanks for sharing the info, I need help with stuff that I'm "to old" to know.., but I still figure it out, thanks to guys like you (and Yes UA-cam) but seriously I love your teaching method and love your videos I definitely subscribed and I will be watching you hopefully learn a lot for me thank you I just found your Channel today keep up the nice videos and the good work
Many thanks for the kind words. Glad to have this platform to share what I know. Thanks for subscribing as well!
Thank you for this informative video. I have a 2010 Town and Country and actually took it to the local Chrysler dealer to have them check fluid levels in the transmission. I do not know if THEY even knew how to check the fluid. They put it on a rack and raised it up and noticed seepage. The vehicle has 298000 miles on it and that i know of has NEVER had the transmission fluid checked. They actually DECLINED to even check the transmission fluid level. They told me the seepage means that the transmission is actually leaking and they declined any further service work and sent me on my way. All i wanted was to know if i needed to add fluid. True almost 300k is a lot of miles but the mechanic in me just wanted to check the fluid level. Now i can check it myself.
Was told today after I took my 2013 200 to the dealership for a recall that the "transmission fluid" was leaking. This was a complete surprise to me because my car stays parked in a closed garage, and online sources like this say I would have noticed the red fluid under the car. I had recently driven the car so I know the fluid would at least be above cold. Took me a while to figure out there is no dipstick, despite my owner manual SAYS there is. Thank you for this guide. I was able to check the level with my oil dipstick, and even though I didn't put any measurements on it, I could easily see that there was at least 30-40mm when I pulled the dipstick back. This I think tells me that the levels are probably normal, which probably wouldn't be the case if there was a "decent" leak like the dealership service told me. I've placed white paper under the car and am going to check tomorrow to see anything leaked as another measure. At least this way, I can tell if they were trying to get me to pay for a $360 for total BS, or if there is any truth to their claims. Other guides say the reason of the leak would be due to normal wear and tear, not changing fluid, or impact/accident(which isn't the case). The cars barely 6 years old and only at 47000km, and owner manual recommends trans fluid change at 10 something years or 100k+ something millage, so normal wear and tear and from lack of changing fluid also seems really unlikely.
Any serious persons please feel free to point any flaws in the logic I applied. I'm just using my reasoning based on all the online sources, combined with the likeliness that I'm being lied to due to odd circumstances to come to the result that I am most likely being targeted for a scam.
I see no issues with your reasoning. Simple checking in my opinion. You should be able to crawl underneath just enought to look with a flash light to see if you see anything obvious.
Fantastic video again. You make learning this stuff a pleasure. Very well done again !!! Thank you very much 🙌
Thanks Dwight! I appreciate the support and comment. It helps to keep me motivated.
Make more videos, your instructions are clear and precise
Appreciate the comment and I will try my best to
You are a valuable resource and this procedure, particularly the fluid level procedure on any modern Cvt transmission is critical to the longevity of that transaxle. Nissan transaxles are highly sensitive 2 fluid level and most importantly fluid temperature. Even the setting on your engine coolant is critical nowadays. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.
Yeah the cvt can be checked the exact same way. Its not a good trans and glad to see that we have gone away from it. Concept seemed valid but it generates to much heat and causes issues with our vehicles.....if you drive high speeds, long distances, on hot days, with car full of people.....the trans temp light will come on. Thanks for watching and for the comment!
MotorCity Mechanic c
Great video. Best mechanic videos I’ve seen
That's a great video. I could not get the plastic cap off the transmission tube, so I called the Dodge dealer to ask how to get it off, and they told me not to mess with that, that only Dodge dealer does that. I told him I will do what ever I want to it, as I own it! Amazing telling me that, pretty lame! I guess it is stuck, so I will have to use pliers to grip and twist it. Thanks for showing this!
this is the best explained video I've seen
Arthur Davis many thanks for those kind words! Make sure to subscribe and enjoy the rest of the weekend
I second that!! ESPECIALLY the videos explaining how to change the solenoid pack in the transmission. I may have to watch those videos again; if changing the fluid doesn't fix the problem from a p0760 error code🙏🏼
Just want to say you are awesome and you explain everything well, keep doing great things!!
Thanks Marcus for the great feedback and kind words. I will keep at it as long as there are people to watch these videos. Make sure to subscribe.
I just saw a forum post on this very matter, a guy used a 36” zip-tie, made the marks and it worked brilliant.
I have a ProMaster 1500, the engine oil dip-stick is a cable, I’m hesitant to mark that.
The zip-tie is the best rout IMO.
The Chrysler method is expensive, overly complicated and ridiculous as is with many things about Chrysler products. Their method is insane. Thanks for a more common sense method. I always enjoy your videos and find them very helpful
Thanks for watching and for commenting!
I watched many videos about it, and without a doubt, your video is the best, absolutely the best, congratulations friend, my subscription is done
I love your videos! This is a very easy to take care of my vehicle. Thank you!
Your welcome! Thanks for watching these videos and for following the channel!
thank you so much ,that was great teaching these was an a great example how it should be if when anybody is showing auto steps by steps
Wow. the best explanation I found on internet. how hard to find such great channels with so specific clear explanation without extra useless information! Thank you!
I have 2005 low milage Chrysler PT Cruiser GT convertible. Do you have video for timing belt, tensioner and water pump replacement?
As soon as covid is over it is on the dyno. What fun .
You are a massively proficient instructor. I the Mopar motor head just discovered your videos.
Keep it up.
The best DIY tutorial with my 62TE Engine..
checking level with engine running or not ?
Thanks for the very informative video David. It helps a lot.
Very clear steps, easy to understand very helpful👍
I hadn’t thought of the transmission fluid temperature gauge on the U connect. Good catch.....hope I can remember in about another 50-60K miles when the fluid will need to be checked and probably changed.
Now here’s a dude who cares enough about his craft to speak about the subject intelligently and offer a solution to the “dealer only” scam.
To those uploading videos purporting to offer a solution in their titles, take a lesson from this video on NOT how to be a douche bag! There is a video on UA-cam that is specifically titled: “ How to check the trans fluid on Dodge Journey” and the douche bag talks about not being able to check the fluid.
All that aside, this video is downright awesome! So, I got to thinking about my trade/high school years many, many moons ago. My auto shop instructor mentioned a landmark Supreme Court case where it basically held that if a manufacturer made a certain widget to repair or service its product, that thing had to be provided to the consumer of its product free of charge. The principal being to ward off monopolies of items, products, or services that eliminate choice for the consumer.
For instance, if Chevy mandates use of only AC Delco oil filters for its 2500 Silverados as a condition to accessing warranty coverage claims on the truck, then Chevy is obligated to provide the oil filter to 2500 Silverado owners at no charge since its forcing its customers to purchase GM exclusive parts despite a robust oil filter aftermarket that deprives the consumer of choice.
I say all that to make the point that if these automakers are building their products to have the consumer bring it back to the dealership for service, they just built exclusivity into their product that undermines the consumer’s choice in the free market. So, I’m especially grateful to an individual who broadcasts ideas that work where the consumer has choice. Thank you.
Those were alot of kind words. I am always glad to hear how the videos help people out. I do get some grief from people every now and then so reading something like this allows me to focus on the good and forget about that one comment or that one person full of negativity. My whole purpose is to show people that with the right tools and the knowledge....almost all thses repairs I show can be done. So the knowledge is what I give....the tools is up to them and in most cases I tell them where to get them lol. I feel the information should be shared with everyone and not hoarded. I just wish it was something I could do full time. Currently it doesnt pay more then my day job so for now I film when I can and try to answer as many questions as possible in between. Know that there are viewers like yourself out there appreciating the videos I put out just makes me want to step up my game with each one and to try to live up to what you expect and deserve. Thanks again for kind words!
@@MotorCityMechanic David, just remember that you can never please everyone no matter how hard you try. I think that it is one of the best video's on car maintenance out there. Keep up the good work and be sure to Thank those negative butt hole's that how nothing more important to do in life. You are doing a great service to the DIY people in America. Carry On.
You do an excellent job teaching
Fantastic education! Many thanks for this one. You'll make a real mechanic out of me yet!
Your my go to for my 2012 caravan getting ready to do shortcut oil pump change thanks for your knowledge awesome videos
Great Video! You really helped me understand how to check the fluid level. I feel very confident now, Thank you
Glad I could help. Appreciate you finding this video and for the comment. Make sure to subscribe.
David is a pro
@@paul_desjardins I appreciate it man!
Thank you ,I just bought a used ProMaster and didn't know there was no stick😊
Thank you, the correct info is priceless, you do fantastic work, please continue 👍🏼
I like a job that don't require no dollars on tools👍 thank you.. awesome 👍
Your welcome. Thanks for stopping by to watch and comment. Make sure to subscribe
Thank you David! Great video as always. I have a RAM and a Journey and have been using your tutorials with success.
So strange, saw my temp at 177 today and wondered if that was in range. Perfect timing to find this vid. QUESTION: if it’s running hot 200+ does that mean fluid is low?
David you area GODDAMN GENIUS!!! Exactly what I needed! THANK YOU!!!!!
Great video. Have an old dipstick from a Journey. Great explanation.
Thanks Motorcity Mech Dude. Saved me some dough from purchasing special tool.
Very great video, nice recap. Had a teacher in tech school like that. He was hands down the best teacher anybody I know ever hand. So,,, how long do these transmission usually last. I asked a junk yard friend and he said trouble seems to start after 200,000 miles in ave situations. I have a 09 TnC with 153k mi I just purchased and it just had the trans serviced few 1000 ago, running well.
This is pretty slick,still may do this but I already purchased my chart and tool online. Tried it works alright.
Appreciate it man. Make sure to subscribe
You can also drill a small hole to mark out the 10mm and 40mm locations.
I have 2016 Ram Promaster and I think you saved me at least $79. Thank you
Any money saved is a great thing! Thanks for commenting and especially for watching.
Thanks for having made this video. Very informative and well made. I'm glad I was able to find your video.
I am going to try using a center punch and hammer at 10mm and 40mm. Thank you for all the good info!