what is the easiest way to remove the dipstick tube for the transmission? well mainly, reaching the bellhousing bolt that holds the dipstick in place. if possible, i would really love to reach it from the top of the car (engine bay) but can i reach it from under the car without lowering the tranny any?

 

You can get it from the bottom with a really long extension and a swivel socket. It's a lot easier than trying to get it from the top.

 

What The GreatJ said, I have found that it is easier to use a 1/4" ratchet & extension than a 3/8" one. The bolt is about a 9/16" one and you might be able to get by with just loosening it. It also secures the TV cable as well. Here is a picture of it.

 

or you can do the old time tested way and just get a really long 9/16 and stand up top and reach back and only get about a 1/4 turn at a time .......

but id do as said above it is by far the easiest way just get a bunch of extensions and a 9/16 swivel socket ive always used 3/8 drive but as trickster said im sure using 1/4 drive would be alittle easier

 

1/4" drive is easier to get in there, but if those bolts have never been loose you can plan on twisting the end off at least one 1/4" extension. Just my experience.

 

well i just swapped tranny's last weekend so they are fresh :P but i need to replace the dipstick tube grommet and i was seriously hoping i w*ouldnt have to crawl under the car again

 

Well in that case all you have to do is loosen the bolt, slide the dipstick out a little ways, replace the grommet, put dipstick back in place, tighten bolt down and be on your merry but dirty way. Piece of cake!!!!!!!!!!!

 

i have to take the bolt all the way out, my dipstick tube had a full hole for the bolt to slide through, not just a fork thingy.

 

This time when you have it out, take a pair of snips or a cut-off tool and notch it. Sooner or later you'll be glad you did.