What is the correct procedure for checking the Automoatic Transmission Fluid level on an '00 F150 4x4?

Running and in

- Park?
- Neutral?
- Drive?

I found the line to the trans cooler leaking and I don't want to burn anything out driving it to the shop...

 

Running and in Park . . .

From the 2000 F-150 Owner's Manual:

Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is at normal operating
temperature (approximately 30 km [20 miles]). If your vehicle has been
operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot
weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30
minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.

1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If
necessary, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment
in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.
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 area for normal operating temperature or ambient
temperature.

 

First of all.. thanks...

2nd... what if, due to a line failure I think my fluid level is dangerously low. Can I skip the 30 km drive?

Lastly..where did you get the electronic copy of the manual?

 

I would put enough in to bring it up in the crossmarks, then drive it a little and check it again. Add up to the top mark.

 

You're welcome.

Yea, I'd say skip the drive. Check the level, top off, see if it's leaking slow enough to make it to the shop and go!

Got the manual here http://motorcraftservice.com/?link=0.../00f12og5e.pdf

 

Thanks for all the quick responses people. I elected to get it towed in as the rate had increased from a drip every few seconds this morning to a stead flow. I didn't feel it was worth the risk.

 

Towing it in was your safest option.