Transmission fluid level vs VIDA temperature

[dhayner]

I'm trying to fill my transmission to the right level.

I don't have VIDA, but I know it can read and log transmission temperature (as well as ambient temperature). I'd like to know the normal transmission steady-state temperature when driving at freeway speeds at various ambient temperatures (or whatever ambient you've got or can estimate).

Given that and T501's transmission temperature curve, I can determine what the fluid level on the dipstick should be.

[howardc64]

Should be 85-90C after 10-20min drive from my prior observation with VIDA. This is basically the thermostat opening temp as ATF cooler is sandwiched with radiator and basically a heat exchanger.

[Astro14]

Drive it for 20 minutes in normal temperatures. Then use the hot range.

Close enough.

The min/max difference is 200ml. Even if you’re off by 10 degrees, you’ll be within 50ml.

[bugeye]

I use a digital thermometer with a long sensor placed into the dipstick tube.

[dhayner]

I use a digital thermometer with a long sensor placed into the dipstick tube.

I did the same. The temperature never came up to 80C. It was about 50-60C on the freeway, increasing to 60-70C when I got back onto city streets.