2003 mountaineer not thing but problems
 

I'm not sure why they built some of the 'Neer's w/o dipsticks. I've never seen but the complaints are many. If the converter is low then the trans is low. If you look there is probably a service bolt (like a 3/8 rachet plug bolt on the differential in a RWD car) for you to check and add fluid if it is a truely sealed unit. Now on a different note, who should be shot over and over again? The trans designer?

The design engineer! The drain plug was a good idea. I checked the fluid level using the level plug. The trans fluid poured out. From my understanding if the level is right you should only get a drop or two. But it poured out. This tell me that the fluid is not circulating. It's going into the tran but not back into the converter. Or not enough.

yup. time for a rebuild. could be a clogged filter, could be a bad pump. either way, stuff isn't being lubricated right and you'll probably have to replace that torque converter and clutch plates. filter and fluid are standard on a rebuild. Expect to pay at least a grand for the repair. depending on what's been burnt, it could be up to 2 grand.

If the 'Neer shifted and worked okay before this and you are familiar with large drivetrain parts, seperate it and change the converter before you spend a small fortune on a rebuild. Just don't forget to fill the converter before install. You might even consider a junkyard trans if $$$$ is an issue. Good luck. Mileage?