How to read the transmission dipstick?

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Jul 13, 2007 | 05:36 PM

williams.d

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6th Gear

Joined: Jan 2007

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From: Hampshire, England

How to read the transmission dipstick?

Changed the transmission oil today, manual says to put between 20 and 24 oz, so I started with 20 oz. Took the bike for a ride to warm up the engine then set about checking the oil level on the dipstick. The problem is, I can get different readings on the dip stick depending on how I place it in the hole. Because the dip stick goes in at an angle, the oil level on one side will be below the 'A' and the level on the other will be above the 'F'. Now. if I let go of the dipstick, the end will tilt down further into the oil, giving me an even higher reading. I know it should be resting on the hole and not screwed in, but it seems the end of the dipstick can end up anywhere. Please help a Brit to get it right.
By the way, a quart of Redline Shockproof here just cost me Â£14.99. Thats about $29.00.

Jul 13, 2007 | 05:46 PM

Chief101

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RE: How to read the transmission dipstick?

Here is how my local HD wrench told me to check it...once fully warmed up of course. Go straight in with the dipstick till it meets the threads then remove it and check the level of fluid. I generally put in about 1 to 2 oz less than the book calls for and go from there. Put too much in once......leaked around the dipstick seal.
Good luck

Jul 13, 2007 | 06:41 PM

rocksandgiz

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RE: How to read the transmission dipstick?

are you checking it with the bike off the side stand? It should be level as you ride it, you can use a lift or have someone hold it up right for you when you check it as coolrays stated. It sounds like the fluid level should be ok. I thought redline was expensive here. Good luck.

Jul 13, 2007 | 07:07 PM

williams.d

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6th Gear

Joined: Jan 2007

Posts: 12

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From: Hampshire, England

RE: How to read the transmission dipstick?

Thanks guys. Yes I was checking it with the bike upright. The best reading I had was when I went Straight in with the dip stick as Coolray mentions, however, I'm not sure which side of the dipstick to take the reading as the fluid is at an angle, if this makes sense.

Thanks
Dave

[IMG]local://upfiles/23239/A042722990E142CCBA2A60A91653BCBB.jpg[/IMG]

Jul 13, 2007 | 07:16 PM

rocksandgiz

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RE: How to read the transmission dipstick?

I read in another post you should pull the stick out, wipe it off and stick it in till the first thread touches the housing and pull it out and read it. Maybe others will chime in, any takers?