I'll be doing a transmission service in a week or so and was curious about the ATF level. I measured mine this morning and here's what I found:

With the engine hot after a 100 mile run, the ATF level is right at the lower 80° mark. With the engine cold and NOT running, the ATF level is about an inch up onto the metal part of the dipstick. With the engine cold and running, the level is just over the top mark of the 25° mark. Garage temp was just under 25°. So that gives me some idea of how much fluid to put in when I do the service. Seems like the 80° and 25° marks on the dipstick are a bit off. There had been a note on here awhile back to only believe the 80° reading and it seems like that's the case with mine.

Len
'99 E300TD 99,500 miles

I've got my level at the top 80 degree mark when hot. Have changed it twice now while running at this level with no problems.

Are you planning on using the "old" red fluid or the "new" purple fluid for the 7-speed that's backwards compatible? I'm using the purple stuff and am happy with it.

__________________
2005 Pathfinder LE
2001 E55
1998 M3
1982 320i

So far, the only way I have had it done was with SDS hooked up and an MB Trans dipstick. Did it twice and haven't had a problem yet.

__________________
01 Ford Excursion Powerstroke
99 E300 Turbodiesel
91 Vette with 383 motor
05 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI
06 Polaris Sportsman 500 EFI
03 SeaDoo GTX SC Red
03 SeaDoo GTX SC Yellow
04 Tailgator 21 ft Toy Hauler
11 Harley Davidson 883 SuperLow

I'll be using the old red fluid and will fill it up near the top 80° line. Had it done at about 50,000 miles and now at 100,000 miles. I saved some of the used ATF from the first change and will compare it to this change. Had an oil analysis done one the first change - not sure if I'll do one with this one or not. Got a magnet to add to the pan this time around too.

Len