Will the REAL Auto Trans fluid level please stand up?

MGVWfan · Post by **MGVWfan** » Mon Dec 05, 2005 4:39 pm

I've read four different versions of how to check the AT's level. The thing that's not stated in any of the references is what the level should be when hot after a highway drive. I got the level between the marks when idling in neutral, after driving around the neighborhood for 5-10 minutes, but after the highway trip, the level was 1/2" above the top mark. Since the owner's manual doesn't say what temp the fluid should be at, I'm wondering if I should drain a bit away until it's below the top mark after a worst-case trip. Thoughts?

ubercrap · Post by **ubercrap** » Tue Dec 13, 2005 5:01 pm

I would think you would not want the level to exceed the maximum under any normal driving circumstances.

wildthings · Post by **wildthings** » Tue Dec 13, 2005 5:26 pm

I would agree with Ubercrap. Drain out the extra, for if you don't you will likely find out why there are warnings about overfilling automatics. If it is overfull it will probably find some orifice to leak from plus may generate extra heat as it is sloshed around inside the case.

vwbill · Post by **vwbill** » Tue Dec 13, 2005 11:10 pm

Sounds like you are checking it right per the books! I wonder if it is a return issue to the torque converter? I always wondered if you could drill and fit a overflow nipple/line to the filler pipe and have some kinda overflow tank like the expansion tank of a watercooler? I would drain a little out like everyone has suggested also. I wonder if it is a oil weight issue or type or brand?? Another good Rayster question! bill

raygreenwood · Post by **raygreenwood** » Wed Dec 14, 2005 4:26 am

It sounds like a bit of expansion and draining from the torque converter. the actual correct method is in drive with the e-brake on...and teh fluid warmed up. Ray

MGVWfan · Post by **MGVWfan** » Wed Dec 14, 2005 6:36 pm

Not to be a nudge, but how warm is warm?...all the MoPars I've had with an auto give a spec for fluid temp to be in the "warm" range on the dipstick (and they also have a "cold" range just below the "warm" range, too). Since the fluid expands as it warms the same amount based on teperature whether it's in a MoPar or a VW, I'd bet the same idea holds, that "warm" is something like 180 deg F or greater for the ATF to be in the "warm" range (that's the MoPar spec for the A413/A470 FWD auto transaxle).

BTW, I drained a bit off, and I'm checking the level periodically after driving to see if it stays in between the marks. So far, it is.

Thanks guys.