Hey guys. I know this is going to sound stupid but: What is the actual proper way to check tranny fluid?

I pulled the dipstick out, wiped it, put it back in, pulled it back out and it would be at different levels every time I check it. Sometimes both of the holes in the "HOT" area would be covered in fluid. I can shine a light through it and notice that. The engine was running also at 210F. I tried doing it in park and neutral (with brakes on of course). Also if I haven't checked it in days, I get black residue on the paper towel. Tonight I checked it for like the first time in days after driving on alot of hills and on the local town roads and noticed alot of black residue come off the dipstick when I checked it for the first time tonight. Does this indicate a problem? The fluid itself was clear pink/red and I could barely see it on the dipstick, but I knew it probably wasn't low because I didn't notice any slipping or RPMs surging or SES lights or anything like that. It actually looked like it was overfilled because it was a good 3/4 of an inch above the "HOT" max line. I know I am asking something so basic, but can anyone give me some info on this? Thanks.

 

You should check the fluid with the vehicle on a flat level surface, up to proper operating temperature, engine running, and transmission in park.

 

Thank you.