Counterpoint to replacement of trans fluid

[Theron J. Bliss]

I'm also curious about this, and I was also wondering how you check the levels
of tranny fluid.  Mine has a dip stick tube, but just a red cap on the top.
Should there be a dip stick, or is this something where they expect you to go to
the dealer for?
Thanks.

Theron J. Bliss

"Harris, Tim" wrote:

> Recently, I spoke to one of the two V8Q factory trained wrenches employed at
> a local dealership regarding replacement of the transmission fluid and
> filter.  I indicated I was leaning towards synthetic ATF.  His response was
> interesting, saying that he did not recommend replacement of the trans fluid
> on these cars (unless the car has very low mileage), only checking and
> topping off the fluid level.  His rationale was that over time, the
> thickening of the original fluid and resulting "varnish" tends to hold all
> the pieces together, compensating somewhat for a slight increase in
> tolerances with age.  Introducing new fluid, he believes, may have been
> responsible for a car developing trans problems shortly after fluid
> replacement.
>
> Any thoughts?  I had been planning to replace the trans fluid, but now...?
>
> Thanks,
>
> --Tim
> '91 V8Q auto., 70k mi.
> Lago blue/gray leather