1980 928 how do you know when your auto trans fluid is low?

[928SROCK]

I was reading the manual and it said to look under the passenger rear wheel area to check the trans fluid so i did and the bottle there talking about has faded a dart yellow color and i cant see if the fluid is low or not. Its a 1980 928 auto us model with 66k miles it seems to run just fine but im trying to check all the fluids is there another way to check the fluid other than the bottle? Does a light come on the dash to let you know if your low or anything like that? How do you add more if you need to? Are there any porsche clubs in cincinnati ohio? Thanks

[MPDano]

Isn't there something on top of the bottle? If so, you could put your finger in there or just top it off till it overflows and put the cap back on.

[nosnow4pc]

sadly you really have to get in there to check the fluid. Especially as the plastic seems to always turn yellow. I had to put a light against the bottle to see the outline of the fluid.

[Randy V]

Originally Posted by MPDano

Isn't there something on top of the bottle? If so, you could put your finger in there or just top it off till it overflows and put the cap back on.

Based on this advice, I'm assuming this person has never properly checked the trans fluid level.

To do it properly, read the section within the Owner's Manual.

The engine and transmission must be warmed up (driven for 10-15 mins. prior to checking) and the car parked on a level surface.

With engine running and transmission in neutral, (parking brake on) look at the level on the bottle. Use a flashlight if necessary.

The level should be between the indicator notch.

To add fluid, you'll need to use a pump attachment and hose (available at any auto parts store) that screws onto a bottle of ATF. It may take quite a bit of fluid to bring the level up as you are filling the entire trans reservoir (pan) to the desired level - not just the bottle.

Do not overfill.

[m21sniper]

Do not overfill.

It bears repeating. Wally Plumley says this is a big time no-no in a 928 AT.

[sonett3]

Edited - personal attack removed. -Z-man.

[911blex]

Even though the plastic ATF bottles yellow, you should still be able to see some fluid so either your transmission is likely very low on fluid or the inside of your bottle has become so dark from dirty ATF that you can't see the fluid level. Now's probably a good time to do an ATF and filter change.

[MPDano]

Sorry for trying. I just was repeating what someone else mentioned when they did their AT service. I am in the process in doing mine soon before I start my engine. I guess RV is still trying to push me over the edge again with his smart remarks. Yes, I mean starting your quote with "Based on this advice..." And yes, you'll probably go back and edit your post like you always do here and on Bannlist. Although the rest of the post was informative and useful, I am sooooo looking forward to bumping paths with you here in San Diego.

[Randy V]

Go ahead and take it personally if you feel compelled to do so.

If you don't know the correct answer, don't make one up and provide bad information.

It's as simple as that.