'03 vs. '04+ LC ATF/dipstick

[Jim_Chow]

From the previous posts, it seems '03 was the last year Toyota used type IV, plus it was the last year the 100 had the ATF dipstick. In '04 Toyota reportedly switched to a world standard ATF and eliminated the ATF dipstick. My question is, does anyone know if the '03 dipstick could be retrofitted into a '04+ tranny? What we'd need is some pics of a '03 ATF dipstick (location in engine compartment and where the dipstick enters the tranny) and photos of the same areas from an '04+. Any members here up to the task? Reason is, I'm searching for an '03 LC/LX but may have found an '04 (don't mind the '04, but having the WS ATF [ie, can't use Amsoil/Type IV w/out fulling flushing the tranny] and no dipsticks are thumbs down for me, as I do most maintenance myself). Also, anyone have free access to carfax where I could PM you the VIN's?

 

[SINCITY100]

I will check tomorrow (today ?) if there was just a plug installed in the trans case where the dipstick was, maybe it could be removed and a dipstick put back in there (?)....

I wouldnt worry too much about the WS fluid/lack of servicibilty though... as far as I know, you could still check the level, condition, and change the fluid through the "fill" plug...

 

[100 TD]

I believe a dipstick would be able to be fitted, have you had a look to see if there is still a tube blanked off? I had a look at an 05/06 at the dealers but don't remember if the tube was still there. I did notice the overflow plug in the pan though. Jump under the 04 you are looking at and see if the tube exits the front left side of the pan. Note the symptons of incorrect fluid below.

The ATF level gauge (dip-stick) has been discontinued, and the ATF inspection method and the oil level inspection method have been changed.

This mechanism consists of a refill plug, overflow plug, ATF temperature sensor No.2, and A/T OIL TEMP warning light.

1) Raise the vehicle keeping it level.
2) Remove the refill plug and overflow plug.
3) Fill ATF from the refill plug until it overflows from the overflow plug.
4) Install the overflow plug.


The following symptoms will occur if non–WS ATF is put into a WS–compatible
automatic transmission:
Non–WS ATF has a higher viscosity. Because of this, response to changes in
fluid pressure decreases, lengthening shift time, causing shift flare.
When the fluid temperature is low, (approximately –40°F [–40°C]), air can enter the oil pump causing cavitation resulting in low fluid pressure.
Fuel consumption increases.

Sorry can't give you any photos, mine hit a kangaroo and is at the repair shop.

 

[100 TD]

Not much point me putting a photo in Jim, mines a diesel!

 

[Jim_Chow]

I don't see why the shifting should be any different w/ Type IV installed in a WS tranny since the '03 is the same 5spd tranny as in the '04-'06, yet uses type IV? I currently add MTF to my two manual tranny vehicles through the fill hole on the side of the pan, but it's a PITA since the Redline MT-90 is thick. A fill dipstick through the engine compartment would be light-years easier.

Has anyone w/ a '04+ LC/LX running WS ATF considered having it completely flushed and type IV installed, or is not not advisable? Are WS tranny owners forever at the mercy of Toyota for their supply of WS ATF?

 

[100 TD]

I don't see why the shifting should be any different w/ Type IV installed in a WS tranny since the '03 is the same 5spd tranny as in the '04-'06, yet uses type IV?

The info I posted above on the problems associated with the change in fluid come directly from a TSB

However if you could find out the oil viscosity specs of the WS and then use something similar you may be able to do the swap. For the number of fluid changes to be done over the life of the tranny, Mr.T's price on WS fluid might not add to much to overall service costs, unless you intend to do constant heavy load towing and want to change it more often.

My 2003 service specs (OZ) which seem to be more frequent than the US specs say to only inspect the transmission oil level, although under severe operating conditions replace it at 80,000km and 160,000 km severe service.

The removal of a dipstick has benefits for MR. T. and consumers alike. A dipstick is the most probable cause of transmission oil contamination and subsequent failure, due to dirt entering through this point and also incorrect oil or other "fluids" being put there by persons who have no idea what they are doing. For this reason the removal would probably save a large percentage of transmission failures AFAIK. (I personally like them, and when I purchased my 97 ford and it did not have one I was annoyed, although I have only changed the oil and filter once at about 120,000 kms and will do it again soon. 210,000 kms)