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ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 6:29 am
by Mako Koiwai
I recently check my ATF level in the Miata Support Vehicle, ie. Toyota Previa van ... and discovered that the ATF level was WAY high. It must have been like that since getting the fluid replaced last year. That dip stick is hidden under a trap door beneath the front seat (motor is Mid Engine). Don't access it very often ... because you can check the engine oil level, water, etc. from under the front hood.

How bad is that?

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 7:40 am
by George Schilling
Was the car warm and the engine running? If not, try it again under those circumstances.

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 7:45 am
by Mako Koiwai
My photo shows the approx level of the warm and cold over filled levels ... which equals the same differential between the recommended cold and hot notches.

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 8:00 am
by Bob Beamesderfer
The notches indicate the normal range for warm and cold measurements. Even if the fluid is cold, you still need to check it with the engine running, after moving the gear selector through all positions.

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 8:02 am
by Mako Koiwai
Hot it's about two inches over the hot mark, cold it's about 1.5 inches over the hot mark

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 8:08 am
by Bob Beamesderfer
You could always carefully open the drain and let it bit out and re-measure. Start with a pint and see what happens. Overfilled, it could leak past a seal.

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 8:39 am
by Mako Koiwai
I think I should take it back to the authorized dealer who did the service and have THEM do the dirty work. }:)

Re: ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2009 12:45 pm
by Eric Clements
Don't forget that different transmissions need to be checked in different ways. 700r4 in park, 47re in neutral. Check your owners manual to be sure you're checking the fluid level in the proper manner.