Seriously though, could I see a few pictures of some 4wd 3rd gen 4runner trans dipsticks?

The reason I ask is because my dipstick is REALLY hard to get in ( I know, this thread is going to go downhill), and I was wondering if the PO used the wrong one. I went to the junkyard and every dipstick I pulled looked different than mine. The difference is where the hot/cold graduations are. I'll post up a pic ASAP.

I'm afraid that I might have my fluid at the wrong level due to the wrong dipstick.

Also, I've determined that it is most likely the elbow in the tube of the trans pan. Mine looks a bit deformed. Where is the best source to buy toyota parts (besides the stealership) ?

 

Ok I realize that not many of you guys are willing to whip out your dipstick and take a picture, so here are mine. Which one matches yours? Top or Bottom?

 

My dipstick doesn't look like that it is uhmmm . . . thicker. Sorry I don't have pictures of it.
As long as I can feel the hole, if its dark, mine usually goes in . . . snugly.
I'm no expert but it doesn't look "deformed" but I'm not a dipstick Dr.

I may have pushed this thread a bit further down the hill.

 

Best thing you can do if you're not sure, take your VIN to a Toyota dealer and have them order you a new dipstick. When I bought one for my swap a few years back they were only $10-20 ($14 MSRP) based on dealer.

Here's something to look at: https://www.toyotapartsdeal.com/oem/...301-62070.html

 

Put in the proper amount of oil acording to the owners manual and see which one is right.

 

The dipstick in my 2000, 3.4, 4wd matches the top picture.