95 f150 4x4 5.8L automatic E4OD

i changed the filter and added new fluid. i put 5 quarts in it, and it was showing low when the truck was hot and at an idle. i added another half quart and drove it some more and it showed way too full.

i took some fluid out and now when the truck is off and cool, and outside temp is above 50 the tranny fluid shows half way up the cross hatch area. when i start it and run it through the gears and check it while running in park, it barley has enough fluid to cover the loop at the bottom of the dip-stick.

the owners manual says to drive it 20 miles, or check it wile engine temp is cold when outside temp is above 50. checking it cold didn't do any good. and i'm worried about driving it and taking a chance of really messing it up.

what should i do??

 

I always check and fill with the vehicle at operating temperature...that will give you an accurate indication of the fluid level. A pan for an E40OD is pretty big so I'm betting you are just a little shy on the fluid...

 

when i drive it a short distance it shows good, but if i drive it through town then back home it is showing way high. my engine temp shows about 175-180when i'm checking it after 2-3 of constant driving in hot weather

 

Never check it with the engine off, this is not accurate.

Just how high is way high? If it si slightly above the cross hatch like a half inch or so I wouldn't sweat it. Your goal is to get it in the cross hatch at full operating temp in park with the vehicle running. I wouldn't trust just a hot idle...Hope this helps sort it out....