Overfull transmission?

ncgirl05 · February 15, 2013

My sweetie was driving his '89 Reatta and noticed that the transmission was very sluggish when changing gears. When he checked the transmission fluid he discovered that it was WAY over the full line. Short of a mysterious stanger pulling up in our driveway and putting extra transmission fluid in the car, how would something like this happen? I can't figure this one out. :confused:

harry yarnell · February 15, 2013

Did he check it running? Fluid level should be checked with the engine running, in PARK or NEUTRAL. If not running, fluid level will be high.

Or the trans cooler in the radiator is leaking coolant into the tranny. Not likely, but possible.

Edited February 15, 2013 by harry yarnell
add info (see edit history)

February 15, 2013

Harry is correct, should check after everything is warmed up after being driven.

Machiner 55 · February 16, 2013

Leigh Anne,

The procedure found on page 7A-3 of the FSM for the 1989 Buick Reatta states as follows:

1.) Park vehicle on level ground.

2.) Apply parking brake and block wheels.

3.) Start engine and operate vehicle for 15 minutes or until normal operating temperature is reached.

4.) Move gear selector through all gear positions.

5.) Move gear selector to “Park” (P).

6.) Check fluid level, color and condition.

The car should not be driven over hill and dale for hours before checking fluid level. Doing this will result in inaccurate level readings. The following is an excerpt from the Haynes manual.

With the parking brake set, start the engine, then move the shift lever through all the gear ranges, ending in Park. The fluid level must be checked with the vehicle level and the engine running at idle. Note: Incorrect fluid level readings will result if the vehicle has just been driven at high speeds for an extended period, in hot weather, in city traffic or if it has been pulling a trailer. If any of these conditions apply, wait until the fluid has cooled (about 30 minutes).

John F.

Edited February 16, 2013 by Machiner 55 (see edit history)

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