Last night, because it was nice and cool (Only 82!) I changed the transmission fluid in the new(ish) truck.

I found this inside.

uselesspart1.jpg

When Ford assembles the transmissions, they put in this little plug to keep the fluid in and the dirt out. They have a little pin sticking out the top, and when the line guy assembles it, he uses the pin to line up the dipstick tube, and pushes the dipstick tube into the transmission hole. The plastic part, harmless and too much of a problem to bother taking out at this time, remains in the transmission. Finding one in a trans means you’re the first person to ever be there.

So the trans in the 99 sploder is unmolested and in excellent condition. I’m well pleased.