Dakota 4WD V8-4.7L Flex Fuel (2008)
Fluid - A/T: Service and Repair
Fluid Level Check - 545RFE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions because it allows the pump to take in air along with the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too high. When the transmssion has too much fluid, the geartrain churns up foam and cause the same
conditions which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating and fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transmission vent where it may be mistaken for a leak.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level. It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before
removing.
The torque converter fills in both the P (PARK) and N (NEUTRAL) positions. Place the selector lever in P (PARK) to be sure that the fluid level check
is accurate. The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle on level ground. At normal operating temperature
(approximately 82° C. or 180° F), the fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil level indicator. The fluid level will be
approximately at the upper COLD hole of the dipstick at 21° C (70° F) fluid temperature.
FILL TUBE EQUIPPED WITH INDICATOR
545RFE Fluid Fill
NAFTA 545 RFE FLUID TEMPERATURE
NOTE: Engine and Transmission should be at normal operating temperature before performing this procedure. After the fluid has been
checked, seat the dipstick fully to seal out water and dirt.
1. Start engine and apply parking brake.
2. Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approximately 2 seconds.
3. Shift the transmission into REVERSE for approximately 2 seconds.
4. Shift the transmission into PARK.
5. Hook up scan tool and select transmission.
6. Select sensors.
7. Read the transmission temperature value.
8. Compare the fluid temperature value with the chart.
9. Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the dipstick according to the Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart (shown above).
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission, wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully drain from the fill tube into the
transmission before rechecking the fluid level.
10. Check transmission for leaks.
CAPPED FILL TUBE
1. Verify that the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
2. Remove the dipstick tube cap.
WARNING: There is a risk of accident from vehicle starting off by itself when engine is running. There is a risk of injury from contusions
