Mercury 1996 Cougar Owner's Manual page 260

NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven if
the fluid level is below the low cold
reading on the dipstick.
Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out
and wipe the indicator end clean. Put the
dipstick back into the filler tube and make sure
it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read
the fluid level.
When checking fluid at normal operating
temperature 150˚F-170˚F (66˚C-77˚C), the fluid
level should be within the hot notched area on
the dipstick. When the vehicle has not been
driven, and outside temperatures are above 68˚F
(20˚C), the fluid levels should be between the
hot notch and the tip of the dipstick.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an
extended period at high speeds or 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.
Adding Automatic Transmission Fluid
Before adding any fluid, be sure that the correct
type will be used. Use only MERCON fluid.
Add fluid in 1/2 pint (.25L) increments through
the filler tube to bring the level to the correct
area on the dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL. If the
level is above the top hole on the dipstick,
excess fluid should be removed by a qualified
technician.
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community's standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
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