Reading transmission dipstick 48RE

[alexanderJ]

I've never noticed this before but I'm getting weird readings when checking transmission fluid level. I just serviced my transmission and after refilling with fluid and getting the truck up to operating temps, I'm getting a different fluid level on each side of the dipstick.

One side of the dip stick is showing the fluid about halfway between "add" and "max". The other side is showing the level about 1/2" below "add". I can rotate the dipstick 180 degrees and get the same reading.

The reading that is showing low level actually looks like a cleaner reading, with a very definite straight line at the top of the fluid level. Is this normal, and which reading is the more accurate?

 

[DavidC]

I have always gone by the lower, back side as it is not picking up fluid on the tube when inserting and removing the stick.

 

[alexanderJ]

Thanks, I'm thinking you are right. There is obviously a bend in the tube, so when you pull the dipstick to clean it, one side is dragging across an inside bend in the tube leaving a fluid residue. Then when the dipstick is reinserted and withdrawn again it drags across this residue leaving a big smudge of fluid.

 

[DavidC]

Try Turning the dip stick the opposite of how it normally goes in when checking the level and see how that works using the factory stick marks.

 

[alexanderJ]

If you are saying rotate it 180 degrees, see my OP where I mention the reading level is the same when doing that. I spoke with a former Dodge technician today who said use the low reading. As I stated earlier, it just looks like a real level, and doesn't have fluid strung out for 1 1/2" on the stick.

 

[cerberusiam]

Which ever side has the clear delineation and definite line is the one you use. One side will always read high and be smeared, the other will have a clean definition between fluid and dry.

 

[alexanderJ]

Which ever side has the clear delineation and definite line is the one you use. One side will always read high and be smeared, the other will have a clean definition between fluid and dry.

Thank you for confirming. That makes sense. Again, I'm assuming that be it transmission or oil pans, if the dipstick tube has a bend in it your are never going to get a clear delineation line on *both* sides.