06 3.8 engine

Why should there be a cold level indicator on tranny dipstick when manual clearly states to check oil level after running to 180 degrees and AFTER shifting through the gears.

SO WHICH IS CORRECT OR IS BOTH CORRECT?

When i check the stick while engine is cold, fluid on stick is in the hot area on the stick.

However after running for 15 mins. or so, and with the engine running, i run the through the gears and then check fluid level it is correct on stick.

ps--another peculiarity: owners manual says, check after running for 15 miles. and then 3 steps prior to that it says "check after idling for 15 miles.

So, what gives?

 

The fluid level goes up as the fluid warms up. Driving the vehicle warms the fluid faster that just letting it idle. The transmission doesn't do much just idling. You should go out and drive it and then check the fluid. That's why the newer transmissions don't have dipsticks anymore, you have to check the fluid level with a gauge going by trans fluid temp.

 

Yeah, but couldn't the temp. be either high or low and still be low on fluid?

 

As long as it's not overfull, I wouldn't worry about it if it's on the stick.

 

Tizzy--its not overfull when i check at hot temperature, just when checking at cold temperature, its overfull.

thanks--scott