Uhoh! Broke the tip off the TH400 dipstick

[Mels72C20]

Went to check the tranny fluid the other day and the tip broke off the dipstick. Trouble is I don't know if it fell on the ground or drop down the tube. I heard something fall just about the time I got the dipstick out. Unfortunately I was on the gravel drive and I have not been able to find anything on the ground. Is it going to hurt anything if it fell inside the dipstick tube? How to I find it or get it out? Kinda scared to drive it now.

[Scott>72-GMC]

Hmm try a magnet on the gravel. Maybe one ove those telescopic magnets for going down the tube?
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[Mister-B]

I would drain the tranny fluid, and install a new filter. The filter (that includes a pan gasket) is like 6 bucks at Autozone. It's probably time to change the fluid anyway, and this'll be a good excuse.

I just changed the fluid on my 400 a couple weeks ago, so I'm here for help if you need it
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[Scott>72-GMC]

Did this on my 91 ^ Very simple and cheap
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[cdowns]

i've driven vehicles over 100K miles then droped both tranny pans and oilpans to find broken off dipsticks in them never had a problem and no idea how long those pieces were in there either

[TBONE1964]

If it did fall down in the pan, that is where it will stay. I would not do anything about it. If you need to do a trans service that is one thing but otherwise leave it be.

All you need to do is make sure you get the correct replacement dipstick

[Mels72C20]

I have a leak somewhere. So I'm sure I'll end up tearing into it soon. I guess now it will be sooner than I thought. Can I get a new dipstick at a local parts store or should I just order one?
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[TBONE1964]

Where ever you get one from, make sure the stick matches the tube or you will get inaccurate fluid level.