Checking ATF level, adding/draining ATF..

Some tidbits I picked up over the years; Keep in mind that just because our 4T45E's don't have a conventional ATF dipstick, this doesn't mean we can't do our own PM work on them.
The 4T45E is filled from a red plastic cap on top of the transmission. My 2007 has a black rubber plug. You should be able to see it fairly easily without removing much, if anything. To check ATF level:

Locate the hex head plug near the pan, about 1.5" from the bottom of the transmission. (I havent poked around much on my 2007, so I'm not 100% sure where the plug is on the '07's yet:uhoh: ) This is the ATF level checking plug. With the engine idling on a level surface, the ATF should be level with the plug hole. If a small amount of fluid does not run out, I add a little until it does. The engine/transmission should be at normal operating temps to check proper ATF level.

With the engine off, removing the level check plug will drain about 4qts of ATF. Kind of a nice feature if you want to do some drain/fill cycles to freshen up the ATF.

http://media.gm.com/us/powertrain/en/product_services/2007/Photo%20Library/Transmissions/2007%20Automatics/07%204T45%20MN5%20LoR.jpg

Found the level checking plug. It's a small bolt facing the right front tire (pass side of trans case). It's above the trans pan flange on the right side. A small hex bolt.

Joel

Just to make it whole lot easier, check this mocked up pic compliments of GM:
http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k65/mtpockets06/074T45MN5LoR.jpg

Joel

Excellent info. Thanks