ATF

After reading a lot of posts I'm wondering if this may be a way to make sure your fluid is at the right level. You will need a way to check temp (still waiting to hear a 2016 step by step temp mode trick). First add a 1/2 quart and then put instrument cluster into temp mode. When truck reaches checking temp then pull the check plug. If low then fluid won't come out. If too full from the 1/2 quart then let excess flow out (keeping an eye on the temp). If the fluid slows to the trickle (see video) AND you're still within the checking temp range then you have the correct ATF level. Repeat if your fluid was low (after the tranny cools off). Why did Toyota make the checking temp below the normal operating temp?? (Rhetorical Question)

 

What video?

 

Google it for now, and if you find it, take the test at the end. I will add a link later.

 

It seems like you are basically describing the official procedure:

 

I don't think Toyota starts off by adding a 1/2 quart. If you think your low, and you add a 1/2 quart you may be able to do this in one step; otherwise we are all sitting around waiting for the fluid to cool down. The dealerships have to have your truck for hours just for that reason. Toyota did come up with a special tool that basically increases the height of the overflow tube. An IR temperature gauge may be a good way to check temps since the steel pan is relatively thin and steel is a good conductor of heat. I'm tempted to install a thermowell to the pan if I can find one.

You Tube - Toyota Transaxle Fluid Level Check - No Dipstick
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNcecuGzTDg

 

I wish for an aftermarket mode to the AT pan, where the check ‘tube’ is changed for one where the height is correct for the ATF at normal operating temperature, with a side benefit of a fully open thermostat.

That would simplify checking the ATF for both, the end consumer and all shops w/o the special tools, in less time.

Toyota please read: Simplicity is the name of the game...

 

Next time I'm getting a manual transmission!

 

Or, if you're in Mexico, a manuel transmiciones.

 

Totally unnecessary, but so NEEDED in this thread