I have an '84 GL (automatic).  = I started noticing that it wasn't shifting out of 2nd.  I decided to check = the ATF and found the stick to be completely dry.  It took 2 3/4 quarts to = bring it up to the MAX hole.  It seemed to drive better.  I took it out = the next day and drove about 30 miles round trip and it was doing it = again.  I checked the ATF again when I got home and it was down to half way = between the MAX and MIN holes.  I checked underneath and could see about five = different drops around the pan.  I ordered a new pan gasket and changed it = and cleaned the screen.  It appears to be leaking from somewhere = else.  Plus, it still won't go out of 2nd. 
 
How serious does this sound?  = What must I look forward to?  Any help or ideas would be much = appreciated.  Thanks.
 
Rob
'84 GL  (190,000 = miles)
'86 Subaru GL-10 (260,000 miles)