1998 Lincoln Continental Owner's Manual - Page 135

Maintenance and care Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used . The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and/or dipstick handle and also in the Lubricant specifications section in the Capacities and specifications chapter. Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the dipstick and outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). Your transmission does not use up fluid. However, it is recommended that you check the transmission fluid at least twice a year. The fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage. Transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 miles) of driving. If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking. 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. 2. With the parking brake engaged P R N D 3 1 and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage. 3. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running. 4. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. 5. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube. 6. Remove the dipstick and inspect DON'T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCH AREA--CHECH WHEN HOT-IDLING the fluid level. The fluid level should be in the crosshatched area on the dipstick. 7. If necessary, add fluid in .25L (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct. 135