1957 checking automatic transmission level

[PeteC]

I see my ‘57 requires Type A tranny fluid. The dipstick is JUST over “low” while idling in Park. I’m not familiar with the method of checking the levels. In Drive there is no fluid on the stick. How do you get the accurate measurement? Nothing in the drivers manual other than Type A fluid.

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[biddle]

Your subject"1957 auto transmission questions" has been revised to summarize what your post is about.

 

[Buckley]

I see my ‘57 requires Type A tranny fluid. The dipstick is JUST over “low” while idling in Park. I’m not familiar with the method of checking the levels. In Drive there is no fluid on the stick. How do you get the accurate measurement? Nothing in the drivers manual other than Type A fluid.

I have always checked mine in park at idle. I’ve never had a problem

 

[Tom Alpers]

It should be checked when warmed up. Put it in low for a few seconds, then drive, then reverse, and then in Park just before you check it to make sure all the hydraulic circuits filled with fluid. Check the fluid with the engine running in Park. It should be somewhere between the full and Lo marks. If you need fluid and you don't know what kind is in it, add fluid that says it's compatible with Mercon/Dexron III. That is the closest to Type A, which is no longer made.

 

[PeteC]

It should be checked when warmed up. Put it in low for a few seconds, then drive, then reverse, and then in Park just before you check it to make sure all the hydraulic circuits filled with fluid. Check the fluid with the engine running in Park. It should be somewhere between the full and Lo marks. If you need fluid and you don't know what kind is in it, add fluid that says it's compatible with Mercon/Dexron III. That is the closest to Type A, which is no longer made.

Thank you!!!