Low ATF level sensor not working

[mollerus]

I am trying to diagnose the problem with a faulty transmission level indicator in my 1977 Clipper with a Dodge 440.  It doesn't light temporarily when the ignition is first activated and it does not show a low indicator light if the fluid is low.  I am getting 12 v. past the electrical connector and down to the electrode tips with the key in the run position.  The indicator light will go on if I cross connect the electrode tips with a jumper.  The electrode tips at the lower end of the dip stick do not protrude straight out but appear to be bent 90 degrees against the insulator.  I don't know if this is normal or if they have been damaged.  I presume that the ATF completes an electrical circuit when immerged in fluid but the connection is broken if the fluid is low.  I have immerged the electrode tip in a  quart container of ATF and still nothing works.  Does anybody have an idea of what is wrong and what the fix is?