So this is going to sound stupid, but I check the trans fluid while idling and it barley hits the dipstick but when off it reads over full. So i had added atf but it never raised the level when idling. When is the best time to check the tranny fluid?

 

You're supposed to check the tranny fluid with the engine and transmission at operating temperature, in park.

 

That's what I thought so where is all of the tranny fluid going and what I the correct amount of fluid?

 

While warmed up idleing in park...

If its just touching the dip stick.Your approximately a quart low......add 1/2 a quart at a time til its at the full mark on the dipstick...

 

Take the vehicle out for a drive and bring it up to full operating temperature.
Park on a level surface, and with your foot on the brake run the transmission through the gear range (pausing for 10 seconds or so in each gear) then put the vehicle in park.
With the engine still running pull and wipe the dipstick, then replace it.
Pull it out again and make note of the fluid level.
It should be within the cross-hatch pattern on the dipstick.
If not, add a little fluid and run the transmission through the gear range again.
Wipe/check level again and (if needed) continue to add fluid/check until the fluid is at an acceptable level.

If you continue to lose fluid the pan/lines/radiator need to be inspected for leakage.

 

the only problem i have is i have already added 2.5 quarts and it still remains on the same spot on the dip stick and i cant find or see where it might be leaking from which i dont think it is.

 

Is this problem with a Z34 Monte or an S-10? If the S-10, is it 4x4? If it is it could be that the seal between the tranny and transfer case failed. That would allow the fluid you're putting in the tranny to pass into the transfer case. Pull the level inspection plug in the transfer case, and if fluid starts pouring out you found the problem. If this is for a Z34 then I'm at a loss for an answer. If you were 2.5 quarts low I'd imagine you'd have noticed some erratic shifting...

 

It's in my 96 z34

 

So I drove the monte today for a mile if that and I parked it and a few minutes later I look under the car and there is tranny fulid runny down the driveway WTF I'm confused