[Ritteling]

Hello All.

Did a check on ATF level using the procedure as set out in the manual. Realised that I need to do a top- up as the level is slightly low. Bought ATF fluid from the dealers and realised that I don't know where to top-up the fluid. Do I pour it into the little tube where the dipstick is housed?

Thanks
Rit


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[andrew.ashton]

Hi Rit,

Yes, that is where you top up the ATF.

A few things to remember:
1. Only use sealed containers of Mitsubishi Dia Queen ATF from the dealers.
2. There is a cold and a hot mark on the dipstick. The cold mark is ONLY to get an idea of where the level should be when you are eg changing the the ATF. The hot mark is the one you need to work to. ie Top up when cold to the cold mark then drive around to get the ATF hot and check against the hot mark. Top up as required.
3. If you do an ATF fluid change then refill up to the cold mark. Wait a few minutes. Check again (because you may just be measuring fluid backed up in the filler pipe). If it is still at or above the cold mark start the car, let it idle and move the gear lever through all the gears several times. Then check again that the level is at least at the cold mark before taking the car for a spin to warm up the ATF. Then check against the hot mark.
4. You should not use ATF so investigate why the level is low.

[Ritteling]

Thanks for the detailed reply. will follow instructions to suit.

" Only use sealed containers of Mitsubishi Dia Queen ATF from the dealers."

Yes - this is what I bought

"4. You should not use ATF so investigate why the level is low."

What are the possible causes? I have read earlier that there can possibly be a leak at an ATF oil radiator? Other possibilities?

How do I recognise ATF fluid leaks from general muck and grime etc that is in / around a vehicle? Or do I just get under the vehicle and try to spot a leak while its running?

Thanks

[andrew.ashton]

Thanks for the detailed reply. will follow instructions to suit.

What are the possible causes? I have read earlier that there can possibly be a leak at an ATF oil radiator? Other possibilities?

How do I recognise ATF fluid leaks from general muck and grime etc that is in / around a vehicle? Or do I just get under the vehicle and try to spot a leak while its running?

Thanks

Sorry for getting back to you so late.

If your ATF oil is disappearing it must surely be one or more leaks. Could be anywhere in the ATF circuits.

I would suggest that you remove your bottom bashplates. Clean them up and also clean up the exposed lower surfaces of the Autobox, engine, front diff etc. Then replace the bashplates, drive for a week and repeat the exercise. You should be able to see traces of ATF / red stains where the leak(s) is/are.

If anyone has previously removed the ATF sump then I would suggest that that would be a good place to focus on. Look for 4ePikinini's post on changing the ATF on this forum Gen3 : DIY - Auto Transmission fluid change. And take heed of what he says about gasket formation and torqueing up the sump bolts.

[4ePikanini]

remember to check the ATF when the car is warm. The ATF will show low when cold. ATF expands quite a bit when warm so check while

ATF is warm
Car is idling
Car is inneutral
Mark should be at the hot mark on the dipstick when warm.