Ford F150 transmission dipstick tube replacement is pretty straightforward but you must stick to a step-by-step process.
To change the dipstick tube on your Ford F150, you’ll need to lift the car and take off the front passenger tire. Then, find the dipstick tube inside and replace it with a new one. After that, check the transmission fluid, put the tire back on, lower the car, and you’re good to go.
Getting confused? Don’t worry as I’m about to break this process into 7 simple steps and share with you what tools you’ll need. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Ford F150 Transmission Dipstick Tube Replacement
To replace the transmission dipstick tube Ford F150, you first need to find the location of the transmission dipstick in the F150 and make sure you have the necessary tools. Here’s how you can do it.
Tools That You’ll Need:
- New transmission dipstick tube.
- Ratchet and socket set.
- Rope or pry bar.
- Ratchet strap.
- Assembly lubricant.
- Anti-seize compound.
- WD-40 lubricant.
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area
- Gather all the necessary tools mentioned above and organize them near the car.
- Make sure you have safety equipment such as gloves and safety glasses.
- Ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the transmission is cool.
Step 2: Lift the Truck and Take Out the Tire
- You’ll need to position a floor jack with the pad under the truck’s frame and lift the truck up, ensuring it’s secure and stable.
- Next, locate the front passenger tire that you need to remove. Then, use a socket set to remove the nuts from the tire. Be sure to place the removed nuts on a piece of cardboard to prevent them from getting lost.
- Afterward, carefully lift and slide the tire out to avoid scratching the rim.
Step 3: Access and Loosen Up the Dipstick Tube
- You’ll now need to find the transmission dipstick tube in your F150. It may be covered by a temporary plug to prevent debris from entering.
- After you find it, inspect the tube. If the dipstick tube is stuck or rusty, use a steel rod and hammer to gently tap the bolt securing it. Or, you can use the WD-40 lubricant and let it be like this for 30 minutes to loosen it up.
- Next, apply a slight amount of force to loosen any rust or corrosion. Then, try to twist the tube gently to remove it. If it doesn’t move easily, consider using a cloth or rope for better grip.
- If necessary, use a pry bar for added leverage, but be cautious to avoid damaging the tube or surrounding components.
Step 4: Remove the Old Tube and Install New One
- Now, you’ll need to take out the old tube. Based on the OldSoulMillennial, using a piece of rope to create a friction hitch around the tube helps take it off. To do that, attach a ratchet strap to the rope and secure it inside the fender well.
- After that, tighten the ratchet strap to create tension, and then shake the tube back and forth while pulling it to work it out.
- Once the old tube is removed, apply some assembly lubricant to the new dipstick tube. Then, insert the new tube into the transmission case, ensuring it’s properly seated.
- Next, install a new O-ring over the end of the tube or use a suitable O-ring that fits. Then, secure the tube in place, making sure it’s properly aligned.
Step 5: Apply Anti-Seize Compound
- You’ll need to clean the bolt used to secure the tube and remove any corrosion with the WD-40 lubricant.
- Then, apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the bolt’s threads.
- After that, reinstall the bolt and tighten it securely.
Step 6: Check Ford Transmission Fluid and Reinstall the Tire
- Before reassembling the tire, check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick. You only need to ensure that the fluid is within the recommended range. If not, learn here how to add transmission fluid to your car in the safest way.
- Then, carefully slide the tire back onto the wheel hub.
- After that, hand-tighten the nuts onto the tire to secure it in place. You can also use a socket set to properly tighten the nuts and double-check that the tire is secure.
Step 7: Lower the Vehicle and Test It Out
- Carefully lower the vehicle using the floor jack and remove it once the vehicle is securely on the ground.
- Then, start the vehicle and check for any leaks around the new dipstick tube. According to Florida Cracker Kustoms, change the O-ring of the dipstick tube if it’s leaking.
Repair Cost: $40 – $120 (for all the tools and parts).
Duration: 30 – 60 minutes.
Note: Be sure to know the location of the transmission fluid dipstick if you have a separate Ford series. To do that, learn here where to find the transmission fluid dipstick on other Ford series.
Ending Notes
If you do what we said earlier, you can replace the F150 transmission dipstick tube and make sure your vehicle’s transmission works well.
It might be a bit of work, but doing it on your own can be enjoyable and save you money compared to hiring a pro mechanic.
Hope you like this guide helpful to know exactly how to change the transmission dipstick tube yourself. Good luck with this project!
And, if you’re wondering how to change the Ford transmission as it seems rusty or terrible in the state, check out this guide for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does transmission dipstick tube replacement cost on the F150?
If you need to replace the tube for your transmission dipstick, it might cost around $300 or a bit more. This includes the part, testing, the work done, and the taxes. But if you do it yourself, it will only cost you around $31 to $75 or more for the part.
How long does it take to replace the F150 transmission dipstick tube?
If you do it yourself, changing your transmission dipstick tube will take around 30 to 60 minutes. But if you get an expert to do it, it will be done in less than 20 minutes.
How long does the F150 transmission dipstick tube last?
By and large, a transmission dipstick tube on a Ford F150 would last around 3 – 5 years with care and maintenance.
