1999 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 216

Maintenance and care 5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. 6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube. 7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in the designated areas for normal and room temperature. Correct fluid level The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 30 km (20 miles) of driving. However, you can check the fluid without driving if the outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). If fluid is added at this time, an overfill condition could result when the vehicle reaches normal operating temperature. The transmission fluid should be in this range if at normal operating ADD COLD HOT DO NOT ADD temperature (66°C-77°C [150°F-170°F]). The transmission fluid should be in this range if at room temperature (10°C-35°C [50°F-95°F]). High fluid level Fluid levels above the safe range may result in transmission failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage. High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition. ADD COLD HOT DO NOT ADD ADD COLD HOT DO NOT ADD Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and/or dipstick handle and also in the Lubricant specifications section in the Capacities and specifications chapter. 216