Transmission fluid and filter change ?'s

[FFRich]

Took my '08 F-250 6.4 powerstroke to the dealer to get transmission filter and fluid changed. They reportedly replaced only 8 quarts of fluid after changing the filter. I stopped five miles down the road to get fuel and checked the tranny fluid with engine running. It just barely read on the dipstick. Shut the motor off and the fluid level was within normal limits. Went back to the dealer and asked if they checked the tranny fluid with engine running and why only 8 quarts of fluid. They advised that some fluid stays in the cooler, etc. The mechanic then told me that he checks the tranny fluid with the engine shut off so that he gets a better reading because he has a tough time getting an acurate measurement with it running. Is this the normal amount of replacement fluid for a tranny filter change? Should the tranny fluid level read on the dipstick with the engine running? (that is always how i checked the tranny fluid on other gas engine trucks). Is this dealer full of crap? I have used them in the past for my F-150 and always had good luck with them.

[CT Performance, Inc.]

Engine running in park at opperating temp..on the trans, takes some time.

[FFRich]

That is what i thought too. So, apparently i am driving my truck with too low of tranny fluid.

[miles97]

about one quart low. Only install the fluid that is specified on the dip stick. Yours should be SP.

[powerhoghp]

Shouldnt it register almost the same warm but off as it would running and warm?

[FFRich]

From past experiences with other vehicles, yes the fluid level is usually relatively the same when running as when off. I tried this again yesterday and it did the same thing. That tells me that it is low when the tranny cooler and connecting parts are running fluid through them.

[Stroke4Fun]

The trans fluid will always show above full when not running it drains back into the pan from the lines and coolers. should be checked as Cary stated running in park warmed up to normal temp. The last time i changed my fluid i played h**l trying to see the fluid level on the stick it's tough being the fluid is so clean i just watch how much comes out during the draining and put back in close to that then let it run a bit until the fluid mix's up tinting it then you can see it better to top it off.
Chris

[FFRich]

Stopped by another Ford dealer today and added two more quarts of Mercon SP. Fluid level reads where it is supposed to now when at idle and operating temp. Guess i will be going elsewhere for my service needs.

[Iqoair]

I think when I did my service it was about 9 quarts.

[Evil Eye]

Mine usually needs about 8 quarts when I change it.