How to properly check the transmission fluid level on your 30RH, 32RH, or 42RLE Jeep Wrangler TJ

[Edgar Marton]

If I top up with ATF in the engine compartment, does the oil also go into the transfer case or do I have to top it up separately?

 

[Moab]

If I top up with ATF in the engine compartment, does the oil also go into the transfer case or do I have to top it up separately?

When you say "top off" you mean your adding only the required amount right? You don't want to fill it to the "top". Only put as much trans fluid in as is called for and check the dipstick properly when adding fluid. Which requires a warm engine, in neutral, and the emergency brake on.

But no. Whatever you pour down the transmission fill spout is going to go down into the transmission. But you can overfill the transmission with fluid. So only use the specified amount. And check the dipstick gauge frequently as you add fluid. To not overfill it.

But a transmission (the subject of this thread) is different from a "transfer case". At least in the US. When we say "transfer case" we are usually speaking of the transfer case in each axle. Which houses the axle gears. Which has it's own fill spout accessed by a bolt in each transfer case cover.

But back to your original question. When you add transmission fluid in the top spout it goes down into the transmission and the transmissions "pan" where the oil is recycled thru the transmission as it operates. Just add the required amount in the engine bay trans tube. Just make sure you don't overfill.

The transfer cases in each axle simply stays full of oil using the fill hole on the side of each. You basically fill it to the level of the fill hole in the side. Excess just pours out prior to reinstalling the fill hole bolt.

Am I making sense? Lol.

 

[JMT]

If I top up with ATF in the engine compartment, does the oil also go into the transfer case or do I have to top it up separately?

The transmission and transfer case are separate. They must be filled separately.

 

[Edgar Marton]

Thanks a lot for answer.
Transfer case ...
Unfortunately, I can't get the fill-up plug out of the transfer case...It's stuck. What tools do I need to buy? Is there a trick to removing the plug?

 

[JMT]

Thanks a lot for answer.
Transfer case ...
Unfortunately, I can't get the fill-up plug out of the transfer case...It's stuck. What tools do I need to buy? Is there a trick to removing the plug?

You need an allen head socket. I can’t remember the size. There is no trick to it. Any parts store will have one. Stop by and they will help you out.

 

[Mike_H]

Thanks a lot for answer.
Transfer case ...
Unfortunately, I can't get the fill-up plug out of the transfer case...It's stuck. What tools do I need to buy? Is there a trick to removing the plug?

I believe its a 10mm Allen Key. the first time I pulled my fill plug...I damaged it since it was seized in there. Probably should grab a spare, just in case.

 

[Edgar Marton]

transmission/transfer case.... which fluid I have to fill in? I can buy Castrol Transmax in Hungary - but which one?

(1) Castrol Transmax Dexrion III H Multivihicle (automatic transmission)

(2) Transmax ATF DEXRON-VI MERCON LV Multivehicle