I have an A reg automatic model F. After a long journey I noticed a high pitched whine and next morning along with the whine I had intermittent traction. I just about managed to get round the block and parked up, for long periods the vehicle would not move at all - although engine seems fine. Could this be just low gearbox/clutch fluid level or something more serious - any help or advice appreciated. Happy New year.
Stuart.

- (#6480) Stuart, 30 Dec 02

could be low in fluid- don't you check it???

- (#6481) david miller, 30 Dec 02

I do check fluid, but vehicle is now on steep hill facing downhill and I'm not sure how this effects dipstick reading. The dipstick has 4 notches and in its current situation the fluid is up to the 4th notch - so i assume that if it is low then it won't be by much. There is no change in engine noise or any attempt to take up when I select R or D, torque converter/clutch? any ideas?
Stuart

- (#6482) Stuart, 30 Dec 02

I assume that you're checking it with the engine running in N or P, following selection of all positions. If you've that much fluid, and the filter isn't blocked solid, then failure of the oil pump would be the most likely cause.

- (#6483) David Miller, 30 Dec 02

David
Your last posting on this - 30-12-02-@ 10:47 suggests that fluid levels are checked with the enging running and either in N or P. Is my interpretation of this correct ?
It's just that I've always checked mine with the engine not running ?
( It's always been full ! )
Is this the method for all Autos, AFAYK or just Townies Etc:?

- (#6484) stephen judge, 30 Dec 02

Most autos, Stephen. When the unit is stationary, the torque converter, pump, valves etc can drain back into the sump. So to confirm that there's enough fluid for all ratios, the engine has to be running to ensure that fluid is pumped through the whole system.
My experience is that it'll read about 2" higher on the stick when stopped- if it says hot max, it's probably at cold min...
Temp is critical too- HOT after a thrash down the motorway will read almost an inch higher than normal operating conditions. Some of the more recent autoboxes from Renault and VW for example, require connection to the diagnostic computer to confirm tranny temp before checking fluid level!

- (#6485) david miller, 31 Dec 02