I checked the ATF today because I hadn't for a long time and it wasn't even registering on the dipstick!! I put some in but something smells a little toasty. Am I screwed? I guess I ought to change the trans filter and put in new fluid tomorrow. I don't suppose pep boys or any place like that carries the filter and seal i'd need.

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1980 300D, 128K

napa or checker usually have the ones for a 722.3xx. just make sure it has the proper gasket before you drain it all. Checker sold my buddy a kit with a paper gasket, instead of the rubber one.

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1984 123.193 372,xxx miles, room for Seven.

1999 Dodge Durango Cummins 4BTAA 47RE 5k lb 4x4 getting 25+mpgs, room for Seven.

You might try changing the fluid a couple of times in close intervals, before changing the filter, and see if it stays a nice ruby color. Also, I would note how much fluid drains from both the torque convertor and pan the first time.

Ensure that you check the level when hot as I've noticed that they can be a little finicky about fluid level. Maybe it's because there is such a small amount retained in the pan.

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Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )

Was the transmission warmed up and was the engine idling in park/neutral? And was the vehicle level?

There is more involved in checking the ATF level than just pulling out the dipstick.

Yes, I had been driving for about 25 minutes, idled for a minute in a level spot, shifted through the gears and checked while idling.

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1980 300D, 128K

i let it sit overnight and was going to warm it up and check it again, but decided to check it first and i'm a little confused. i don't want to drive this if it will mess it up, so please advise.

it has been sitting overnight. the block heater has been plugged in for a few hours. it is facing downhill, not a terribly steep hill. i checked the fluid and it is 2 inches or so above the max level! i know the hill and the temp effect this, but what is the deal? is it ok to drive this? yesterday i only added about 1/2 to 3/4 quart.

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1980 300D, 128K

The tranny fluid level should always be checked when the car is at operating temp and has been driven. You did good by parking on a level spot and lettingthe car idle.

High level when cold and not running is normal, as the oil pump is not working, and the fluid has dranied into the pan.

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RRGrassi


70's Southern Pacific #5608 Fairmont A-4 MOW car

13 VW JSW 2.0 TDI 193K, Tuned with DPF and EGR Delete.

91 W124 300D Turbo replaced, Pressure W/G actuator installed. 210K

90 Dodge D250 5.9 Cummins/5 speed. 400K