I changed the oil in the Sierra yesterday. I decided to check the ATF level while under the hood. Engine was still warm, but not operating temperature hot. The fluid registered well above the hot mark on the dip stick. I got a little concerned and decided I would check it again today cold. The ATF still reistered well over the hot mark. Should I be concerned? This is the first time since I bought the truck new that I have ever checked the level.
ATF overfill from the factory?
- Thread starter Sierra048
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You also need to put the Trans into each gear for a second or two to make sure all the passages are filled. Ed
What was the trans temp when you check the fluid level? Get the trans up to operating temp* by taking a 15 min drive, park at a level surface, move shift lever through all gears to park and check fluid.
*Assuming operating temp is 180°F.
*Assuming operating temp is 180°F.
Relax, life is short
Yes, do as the manual says. There is no "universal check method" to ATF measurement.
OK. I've got egg on my face. I didn't have the engine running. So, to check it cold, just start the car, run it through the gears and then check the level while engine is running. Since I have an errand to run tomoorrow, I can check it hot/warm when I get home. Once I get home, how long should I wait to check the level? Right away? If not, how long should I wait before checking?
pull into driveway and let the engine idle, check while hot idleing. read the manual !
Typically, at least with the cars I've owned the fluid is checked on level ground in park idling. I go for about a 15 minute drive, park the car on level ground shift through all the gears and hold it in the gear for a couple of seconds, shift to park wait about 3 minutes pull the stick and read it. I found that to give me the most accurate readings. With my Jeeps I do the same thing only I use a special dipstick and record the temperature of the ATF either by looking at the EVIC, or with a probe I made. Then compare the levels to a chart I have which indicates what the level should be at different temperatures. In the case of the probe for recording temperature I do that a few seconds after checking the level because it pulls fluid up the dipstick tube when I take it out. The fluid has been spot on using that method.
Bottom line read the owners manual and follow the procedure for checking the fluid level.
Bottom line read the owners manual and follow the procedure for checking the fluid level.
Just thought I'd take a minute to update and thank all for their unput. Your knowledge, and the owner's manual, got me on the right path to checking the ATF level. Both cold, and hot, levels were right where they needed to be when checked properly. I'm actuallly a tad bit embarrassed I didn't realize my error before posting to begin with. Thanks again.
Originally Posted By: Bluestream
Relax, life is short
The transmission's life is shorter, if it is overfull.
Relax, life is short
The transmission's life is shorter, if it is overfull.
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