OTS05, that is a great question! To check the transmission fluid level, the engine must be running and warmed up like psoted. I norally let the engine idle for about 10 minutes, then shift thru all of the gears enough to get a bit of movement. THis builds the pressure up in the tranny and gets the fluid flowing throughout. Then, when in Park, pull the dipstick near the firewall to check the level. Smell the fluid for any burnt odor, and check the color which should be pink. IF you detect any burnt odor or the fluid is dark red or brown, you need immediate service.
Normal maintenance is up to 50K miles, the fluid and filter should be changed, with a complete system flush. If this hasn't been done, a system flush may do more harm than good. Dirt, metal filings, etc. can be introduced into the transmission and many shops will not do the flush if you have 100K miles or more on the vehicle without proper cleaning. The only option then is to drain the fluid and replace the filter, checking for any metal filings.
The transfer case should also be serviced at least every 50K miles by changing the fluid. Many of the newer t-cases use transmission fluid, and a below-normal level is the leading cause of failure. On a typical t-case, the upper plug is for filling, and the lower pug is the drain. Be extremely careful in removing these plugs, as they can easily be stripped.
Same goes for the differentials. You often have one plug to both fill and drain fluid, and must use a vacuum pump to remove the old fluid. Look for any metal filings, or use a magnet run thru the old fluid.
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