Checking ATF fluid

[MattF]

Just a quick one. Do you check the ATF fluid, for the autobox,
with the engine running or off for a correct reading?

Cheers.

[hawkwind]

With the engine running

[M35A2]

Take the truck for a short drive. Then go thru all the gears with stick. Pop bonnet and check with the engine running.

[MattF]

Cheers chaps. Have just nipped on a very short run, and she still
seems to be showing a tad low, even though I've put 4.5 litres in,
which I believe is the amount for a 2.4? Anyhows, nipping out in
her on a proper run shortly, so will check it again when I get there.

Cheers.

[M35A2]

You need to get the truck to normal operating temperature before checking the level. Driving the truck just makes sure the fluid has gone thru the box and that all the gears have been used. The level rises when she is hot, which is when you should check it. I changed the oil in mine once and made the mistake of checking it with the engine running, but not at the right temperature. After I came back from work the next day it was well over the mark and I had to drain some out.

[Morr]

The full procedure can be found here http://www.hiluxsurf.eu/faq_service.htm#autobox

[MattF]

Thanks again chaps. I've just had to nip a couple of junctions down
the motorway, and then some town type driving to get where I was
going. Checked the level when I got there, and she was nicely between
the hot marks. Looks like I've managed to get the level close enough.

It's like a black art checking this ATF level. Thanks once again.