FMX Transmission dipstick question

[vintageman]

Quick question, I have an FMX transmission that I have not had any issues with, I rebuilt it a couple years ago. Recently, I had a delay with shifting from Park to Reverse. I went to pull the dipstick to check fluid level and could only pull the dipstick out about two inches and no more, it was stuck. Tonight, i dropped the pan and saw that the dipstick was stuck on on of the lines above the filter. The dipstick has a hook on it, I have no idea why a dipstick would have a hook on it to get stuck on thing especially the dipstick tube. I cut the hook off and now, for some reason, I cannot get the dipstick to go all the way in. I drove it for about 35 miles tonight with no issues or fluid coming out of the dipstick.

First question, what would prevent the dipstick from going in?
Second question, does it sound like I have the wrong dipstick?
Third question, until I get it corrected, is it ok to drive without a transmission dipstick in place?

This is going to push me to a toploader or 5 speed, I know it.

Thanks in advance/

Tom

 

[Sheriff41]

The loop at the end was to help guide the dipstick past all the bends in the tube. You're probably getting the cutoff dipstick stuck at the sharp bend in the tube. You don't need the dipstick in to drive the car, but you'll want to cap or plug the tube to keep dirt and water out of the trans.

Go 5-speed when you make the move to manual.

 

[Vicus]

That's how a FMX dipstick looks like, when it is fully pushed inside its tube. There is usually no bend at the end and also nothing to which the bend can engage.

 

[vintageman]

Thanks Sheriff41 and Vicus for the replies and picture. I will check to see if the sharp end is getting hung up. From the picture posted, it looks like I may have the wrong dipstick. More investigating to be done this weekend. I will update when I have it figured out. More to follow. Thanks.

Tom

 

[vintageman]

My dipstick does not have the twist on the end but after smoothing out the end where I cut the hook off of it, it does go back into the tube and closes properly. From what I am tracking and from West Coast Cougars site, the 1972 FMX transmission has the hook on the end. Even though my mustang is a 73, both the engine and transmission came from a 1972. I think at this point, I am good. Thank you both and the site members for all assistance that you have provided on this journey of restoration.

Tom