I was under the impression that you check it WARM and RUNNING.  I'm
interested in finding out the answer, also.
Michael in San Antonio
91GL Weekender AT 2.1L 'Gringo'
73 Beetle

On Mon, Apr 19, 2010 at 12:45 PM, Mark A Kippert <vanagon@kippert.com>wrote:

> I got my '90 Carat running and out for a test drive on Sunday and was very
> pleased with how well it ran and drove after setting unstarted for about 2
> years. Engine starts and runs good but idles a tad rough (no surprise). Auto
> tranny shifts smoothly up and down. I checked the owners manual which says
> it should be warm (not hot or cold) when checking the automatic
> transmissions fluid level, but it said nothing about having the engine
> idling which is typical of most cars.
>
> It seems like a no brainer that you check it with engine off, but I still
> feel compelled to ask if this assumption is correct.
>
> Thanks!
> Mark K
> 1986 GL/2WD/4SPD "Old Gold"
> 1990 Carat/2WD/Auto "Carol"
>