[littlered380sl]

This is weird, I’ve always had inconstant transmission readings but now they seem to be really out of whack.
Just changed trans fluid (not converter) and filter. Got out about 3 quarts. Refilled 2 1/2 quarts and went on test run. Works fine. Checked fluid level 80 degrees (natural while car is running) level was bone dry. Put in ½ quart. Checked, no difference. Let car sit overnight, checked without running car, read online here non running cold level check should be 1/3 inch lower then low level mark. Like I said, check cold level and level was way above (1 inch) warm mark? Went for test drive, ran fine, check level in neutral running temp 80 degrees level was dry again? Is it wrong or not true cold level reading is 1/3 inch below low level? Should I be adding more fluid while I’m doing a warmed up running level check? Just keep adding more fluid until level is correct while car is running? I know to run through the gears and reverse while I adjust (adding) fluid and just ignore the morning cold level reading? I’m afraid of overfilling.

 

[GlueckAuf]

Adjusting the ATF level on an SL can be difficult because the amount of fluid between the MIN and MAX lines is just 0.3 liters. The apparent fluid level changes pretty drastically depending on the temperature of the fluid. And any incline--fore and aft, or laterally--can throw the readings way off, too, so make sure the car is parked on a perfectly level surface.

First of all, ONLY check and adjust the level with the SL running. There is no other reliable way to check it, and adjusting the ATF based on the reading from a non-running engine is a crap shoot.

Second, the dipstick's MAX and MIN scribe marks only apply to a hot (80C) transmission. On my '87, the maximum permissible ATF level with a room-temperature transmission is 10mm BELOW the MIN mark. And this is after one has shifted through the gears, pausing in each one for a few moments.

All you need to know is right here. Best of luck gettin' it right, bud.

Good road,

GlueckAuf

 

[hotshoe]

This could also be part of the reason that the trans leaks when setting for a long time. there must be some kind of a check valve to keep the oil in the torque converter. Over time it probably leaks, some worse than others, and some tailshaft seals better than others. Mine only leaks in winter storage, and at that, probably only a few drops. I think I'll check my level cold before putting the cover on, and again next spring, at least for a relative reading.

If the OP drained 3 qt. and part of it was TC leakdown, that would explain a lot.