2014 F53 - Parking Brake Fluid Check?

[Xjaywalker]

Anyone ever do this fluid check? Manual says to use Mercon V. But to be honest I have not even checked this. (see below) Getting ready to crawl under there while doing the all the grease points.

[House Husband]

That ZF parking brake has been used on F53 chassis sense 1988. It's a shame that many owners don't know about it. When it leaks, it don't take long for those 4 oz. of ATF to disappear and destroy the assembly. What really sucks is when it runs dry, it sometimes welds it's self to the transmission out put shaft and a transmission replacement is necessary. 17mm socket, 6" extension and ratchet to remove the plug.
Thanks for bringing it to our attention.

Richard

[Xjaywalker]

Thank you Richard.....just trying to stay on top of these things. Glad its not leaking and that I know where it is and what to look for in case. Cheers.

[DFord]

On my 2004 F53, there is no dipstick. Just the plug. Transmission fluid should be up to the level of the plug and some may run out when the plug is removed to check it. It's easiest to remove the Emergency Brake cable to access the plug. See the picture attached: