SERVICE/MAINTENANCE 53

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The torque converter and the transmission are lubricated with Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). The final drive requires hypoid oil SAE 90 or 80W/90 which does not have to be changed.
Checking the ATF level
The ATF should be checked at least at intervalsspecified in the Maintenance Schedule at the end of this section.
A correct ATF level is very important for transmission operation.
The ATF should be checked with the engine warm and idling, the selector lever in Neutral and the parking brake applied.
WARNING
Checking the ATF level is potentially hazardous because the hot engine has to be running during the check. Do not attempt to check the ATP before reading all WARNINGS on pages 46 and 47.

The ATF filler neck is in the engine compartment on the left side of the engine (as seen from the driver's seat). The dipstick is attached to the plug. Pull it out and wipe it clean. Reinsert the dipstick to measure the fluid level.
The automatic transmission may be damaged by even a tiny speck of dirt. Only use lint free rags to wipe the dipstick. Use a clean funnel or spout when adding ATF.

You haveenough ATF if the fluid level is between the two marks on the dip-stick. It should never be above or below these marks. If level is too high or too low do not just add or drain ATF. Check and correct the cause as soon as possible.
For correct ATF specifications, see "Specifications" in this manual.
Changing the ATF
The ATF has to be changed at intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule at the end of this section.
Do not tow the vehicle for any distance with front wheels on the ground, or run the engine without ATF in the transmission.
Manual Transmission
Both transmission and final drive are combined in one housing. The lubricant used is hypoid oil, SAE 90 or 80w/90, which does not have to be changed.