Hopefully this doesn’t come across as too dumb of a question.

I’ve got a 1996 4.0L and I’m looking to check the transmission fluid level.

According to my dipstick it should be checked when hot, idling, in neutral, and on a level surface. I’m curious what is meant by “hot”.

When driving at this time of year, my operating temp is around 150-160. Should I check it at this temperature or let it sit idling and get all the way up to 210?

 

Coolant temp Is not tranny fluid temperature...and hot means normal operating temp for transmission. A 20 min drive at highway speeds and checking within 10-15 min of that is fine. Don't overfill, a good bit below is way better than over

 

I think the FSM states a milage or time probably.
Dont worry to much though: After about 20 min of driving your trans fluid will be up to temp. Just check it after you had a little drive, and you'll be fine.

 

You need a new factory MOPAR thermostat if your engine is running 150 to 160 this time of year.

And just so you know, the factory fluid change on that trans is every 30,000 miles under normal service.
Towing, taxi, postal delivery every 15,000 miles. If you're unsure how long ago it was changed, the time is now.
Use only Dex/Merc ATF. NOT the MOPAR fluid.
Grab a gallon of fluid from the store.
Only drain and refill the transmission. No need to change the screen inside. Easy.

 

X2, you need a thermostat if you're not reaching proper operating temps while driving. Regardless, you should be fine to check the trans fluid after driving a bit.

 

Thanks for the thoughts! I've thought that maybe my thermostat is bad/stuck open but if that's the case, would I still be getting good heat? Also, my engine does get up to 210 when stopped.

 

Thanks for the thoughts! I've thought that maybe my thermostat is bad/stuck open but if that's the case, would I still be getting good heat? Also, my engine does get up to 210 when stopped.

 

Your thermostat is not working optimally and will fail at some point.