Checking transaxle lube level

[CharlieZ]

Is the speedometer fitting keyed or splined in to the manual transaxle case in any way at the transmission end. That is, when the hold-down bolt is removed, can I apply rotational force while pulling up. I don't want to strip anything when removing it to check lube level.

Thanks

[festivaWES]

you have to unscrew a collar then pull up.

[CharlieZ]

you have to unscrew a collar then pull up.

It's pretty tight. Any twisting allowed

[oxbrain]

You can rotate it around, but I've never had one I could just pull out. I either tap it up from underneath or use a slide hammer.

[festivaWES]

I'm taking about the cable its self it can be twisted off. If you need to use channel locks or something to get a good grasp on it and turn counterclockwise. After that you can remove the one 10mm bolt and pull the speedo gear straight up. A slide hammer for a speedo gear???

[yutz]

transaxle fluid

does the 88 festy 4 speed require fluid ? my mechanic said no.

[sam.1956]

88 Festy 4 speed takes automatic transmission fluid, per the Ford Shop Manual. No joke.
There's an O-Ring seal that makes the gear/housing somewhat of a bugger to remove from the trans.

[dragonslit]

i got a 93 and have been runing for 4 monthes on a no 10mm bolt cause i broke my flange ( older guys u know wat i mean ) and i can pull my speedo outta my tranny anytime. as a matter of fact it comes out every once in a while. u shoulndt have any problems removing it from ur tranny.

[festivaWES]

every single one of my festivas have the notorious broken flange from the gear. It's annoying that it is made from cheap pot cast aluminum, but I have never had one fall out of the tranny.... :dontknow:

[hawkdoc60]

does the 88 festy 4 speed require fluid ? my mechanic said no.

Your mechanic is an idiot. Yes, it takes automatic tranny fluid like Sam.1956 said.

[Pu241]

Your mechanic is an idiot. Yes, it takes automatic tranny fluid like Sam.1956 said.

hawkdoc and Sam.1956 are correct.
This is the same mechanic that has done all the work on your car?
Be afraid, be very afraid!