Easier to reach Trans Dipstick?

[Batman]

I've done a bunch of searches on this forum and elsewhere and can't really find any info on this. I believe this is particular to the 4x4s and their chassis layout. I'm sure it's just whining and I should probably get over it, but this really annoys me. It is hard to reach the transmission dipstick on my truck, it's a mostly stock '72 4x4 with a TH350. I've heard an old buddy in passing mention I should find a van dipstick to throw on this thing and that'll bring the dipstick out to the front of the engine. I can't seem to find any info or pictures on whether or not that will actually work. This has got to be an even bigger issue for the lifted guys. Anyone here have any suggestions on making the tranny dipstick easier to reach? Right now I have to find at least a cinder block or something, and then stretch myself over the passenger fender and I can just snag the handle, then I pray the spark plug wires don't get in my way.

Thanks!

[OLDCHEV4X4]

I use a 3' step ladder.
Once the level is good, and there are no leaks, your good. I dont feel its necessary to check it every week. Mabey every couple months on a regularly used truck.

[Batman]

I know I don't really need to check it constantly. I do have a leak which should be fixed, but the truck really doesn't get a lot of miles on it (it's a toy truck). I'm basically playing with how bad the leak gets (output shaft seal) vs. the pain of taking out the trans and transfer case, I only want to take them out once so when I do both are getting rebuilt, but I don't want to take them out until I'm darn good and ready. So, yeah I'm basically whining that it's a pain to check the transmission fluid about 4 times/year. Just figured if there is something simple other have done, like just picking up a dipstick and tube from a different vehicle it might be worth it to do that.

[OLDCHEV4X4]

A van dip stick will probley work, dont know if hood clearance will be a problem or not.
Personally I would rather fix the leak than put a non original dipstick in.

[mknittle]

http://www.summitracing.com/search/b.../?autoview=SKU

these are a bit pricey but there are less expencive ones

[Batman]

I have seen the LOKAR dipsticks. They do look like an interesting option. I believe they usually get mounted to the firewall. Has anyone ever mounted one to the inner fender or somewhere like that that is easier to reach on these trucks?

[mknittle]

Originally Posted by Batman

I have seen the LOKAR dipsticks. They do look like an interesting option. I believe they usually get mounted to the firewall. Has anyone ever mounted one to the inner fender or somewhere like that that is easier to reach on these trucks?

I go to quite a few car shows,and have seen them mounted in all sorts of places.that was the idea in the first place.For the guys that do swaps like a big block chevy in a nash metro.