Thanks, its clear now. Think I am going to get this as well. Simple install. https://www.atsdiesel.com/ats-doomsday-device
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Safety Recall ZA3 - Transmission Dipstick ** UPDATED INFO IN 1ST POST **
- Thread starter RamCares
- Start date
Hey it's your sheckles but IMHO, that's a huge waste of money and ATS kinda sucks anyway. I wouldn't give them a dime of my money.
Also, likely that won't fit in the new style tube.
Also, likely that won't fit in the new style tube.
Interested in hearing your opinion. I have not dealt with them, and their video seemed compelling. But I can learn new things.
Jay P
Member
Suncoast makes a locking dipstick for the 18 and older 68rfe. It's a little longer and the marks are wrong. It's better than the ATS solution, cheaper and a better short term solution if you can find one (just need to use the factory dipstick to check levels).
Edit -> this is just a short term fix until the dealer can perform the actual recall.
Edit -> this is just a short term fix until the dealer can perform the actual recall.
Last edited:
Jay P
Member
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When I realized my dealer was not going to do the recall anytime soon and after I once found my dipstick slightly out of the tube, I bought the overpriced "doomsday device". It installed OK and has been in place for months now with no issues. But I am sure I have the old-style tube still. Also, some day, (year?), when I finally am able to get the recall done, I will have this overpriced device and no use for it. But that is what many of us need put up with after the sale if we want a Ram truck. The more I try to deal with service and recalls though, the more I think maybe the Ram brand was a mistake. I love the truck other than that though and I still can't imagine getting rid of it unless there is an issue that parks the truck, and I can't get it fixed in a timely manner.
H3LZSN1P3R
You're doing it wrong
The tube gets changed for the new locking stick.
@Ziggy if you are that worried about it for the time being until you can get the recall done just ziptie it in place no need to waste a dime on anything from ATS
JD2510
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The tech that replaced my dipstick on recall did not replace dipstick tube said the new tube was same as the one on the truck
H3LZSN1P3R
You're doing it wrong
For the full length stick? I was under the impression they were to be replaced perhaps the tech was just lazy? I was sure the P/N for the new tube was different
H3LZSN1P3R
You're doing it wrong
Yes
I just checked mine and it already has the replaced locking stick. Thanks for your reply.
CortexM0
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It would be great if it was this simple. I haven't been able to check my transmission fluid for years.
The dealership won't do anything because their computers tell them my truck doesn't have the short dipstick...
Trash Panda
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My local dealer also was absolutely worthless.
Ended up tracking down the part number, and just ordering one. It was easier than having my blood pressure spike dealing with a parts counter that had no clue.
CortexM0
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I'll probably end up doing that as well. I doubt it's too expensive of a part. It just doesn't feel right having to pay extra to restore the functionality that RAM decided to remove.
- Every RAM truck I test drove had the capability to check the transmission fluid.
- When I ordered the truck, there had been no mention of the shorter dipstick yet.
- Prior to pickup, the dipstick was changed out with the short dipstick.
- When I picked up the truck, I was told there was no availability of the proper dipstick but that one would be provided once they were available.
- There is a MOPAR document filed with the NHTSA stating "Mopar will make available a 44” locking dipstick that can be retrofitted at a later date, via a CSN. This 44”locking dipstick will enable fluid levels to be measured." "If you encounter an owner that is dissatisfied with the ZA3 15” locking dipstick, please advise them that you understand their concern, and that you will order a 44” locking dipstick for them when the CSN Parts are available."
- My owner's manual describes a procedure for checking the transmission fluid level. This has not been updated for the shorter dipstick supplied with my truck. If I were to follow the manual supplied with my truck and add fluid until it registers on the dipstick, the transmission would be grossly overfull.
Trash Panda
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I want to say that the actual part was around 20 dollars. Well worth not having to deal with the mouth breathers in the service department at Cowboy Chrysler.