Replaces the factory fill plug on GM 8L90E and 8L45E transmissions with a braided tube and locking dipstick so you can check level from the engine bay.
GM built the 8L90E and 8L45E eight-speeds without a transmission dipstick. Checking the fluid on a Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Colorado or Canyon with one of these units means getting under the vehicle, pulling the plug on the side of the case with the engine running and the fluid in the right temperature range, and watching what comes out. This kit, reference 22173, swaps that plug for a stainless braided tube that runs up into the engine compartment and ends in a locking dipstick. Owners buy it after a fluid service, when chasing a shudder complaint, or simply because they tow and want to look at their fluid as often as they check engine oil.
The tube end threads into the case where the factory plug came out, and the braided line routes up to a bracket in the engine bay. The stick carries a stamped level mark and the knurled cap locks it down so engine vibration cannot walk it out. Fittings are billet aluminum, and the cap and bracket are 6061-T6 aluminum with a black anodized finish. The listing states that the 8L90E and 8L45E share the same plug location, which is why one kit covers both.
If you change your own fluid, tow, or are working through a shudder or shift complaint, this tool saves a trip under the truck every time you want a look. It does not repair anything by itself. If the fluid is already dark or the vehicle shudders, read our 8L90 common problems guide first. If you are replacing cooler lines, our 8L90 cooler line replacement guide covers the fluid reset afterward, and that is exactly when a dipstick pays for itself.
The listing covers 2015-2024 GM 1500 trucks and SUVs with the 8L90E, and Colorado and Canyon trucks with the 8L45E. Many GM half-ton trucks and SUVs from those years were built with a six-speed or the ten-speed 10L80 instead, and this tube does not fit those units. Confirm the transmission on your vehicle's RPO sticker or send us your year and VIN before you order. Other 8L90 and 8L45 parts are on our 8L90 and 8L45 collection page.
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| Dipstick | |
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Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
No. GM builds the 8L90E and 8L45E without a dipstick tube. The factory method is checking at the plug on the side of the case. This kit replaces that plug with a tube and locking dipstick.
No. It is for the 8L90E and 8L45E eight-speed units only. Check your RPO sticker or send us your year and VIN.
Yes, when the truck has the 8L45E eight-speed. The listing states the 8L45E uses the same plug location as the 8L90E.
DEXRON HP. For the highway shudder covered by GM bulletin 18-NA-355, GM specifies a fluid exchange to Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP.
The knurled aluminum cap locks the stick in place, so it is designed not to back out from vibration. Keep it locked whenever you are not checking fluid.
