Latest thoughts on Trans fluid?

[firemediceric]

I have just read many old threads on trans fluid, some from over two years ago.

I'll outline where I'm at and take your suggestions. My 1999 F-350 has 130,000 on it. The transmission has 80,000 on it. I think when the new trans was put in the mechanic used Mobil 1. I have had the mechanic drain and fill the trans a couple of times now and I believe Mobil 1 has been used every time. I don't think a full flush was done, but only a drain and fill. I don't even know if the torque convertor was drained.

I'm going to tackle the task myself this time. I'm thinking I should replace the filter. Should I just drain the pan and torque convertor or try and do a complete flush? Do I use Mobil 1 or can I save some money with a generic Mercon V labled fluid and not notice a difference? Is the Mobil 1 that much better?

 

[CHPMustang]

If you do alot of towing in where the fluid temps are high I'd stick with the synthetic but if it's a regular driver within normal temps I'd stick with manufacturer recommended transmission fluid.

 

[trackspeeder]

Use the synthetic. I would drain the converter.Drain and drop the pan. Check for trash in the pan. Clean the magnet put a new filter and button it up.

 

[firemediceric]

If you do alot of towing in where the fluid temps are high I'd stick with the synthetic but if it's a regular driver within normal temps I'd stick with manufacturer recommended transmission fluid.

Kind of what I'm thinking, but being cheap is also motivating me. Mobil 1 (which is in the trans now) is $7 a quart and Advanced Auto has the Valvoline Mercon fluid for .95 a quart

I just don't want to be penny wise but pound foolish.

 

[Butch Cassidy]

Regardless of either regular ATF or synthetic use, get a trans temp gauge installed. If you do a lot of towing, look into having additional colling added to your truck.

Keep in mind synthetic can take higher temps than regular ATF, which is a good thing. Your trans clutch material will NOT handle the increased temps.

Butch Cassidy

 

[firemediceric]

I have a gauge on the way. I plan to monitor temps for a little while before doing the fluid change, although I'm sure it will be a little cooler now than it would be in the summer.

 

[WD40]

You don't say where you are from, but down here in the south where it gets real hot in the summer I would stay with the synthetic, becaue it can take higher temps.

 

[Sleeper Diesel]

i do not tow much, only a car and trailer sometimes. i have a trans temp gauge. what would be normal temperature. i heard about 80 degrees above ambient is that about right. what would be hot temp. i see up to 210 on a hot day towing. just curious about changing to synthetic

 

[iracemine]

hey guys, what about castrol fluid for 1.99 a quart? any good?? please let me know what you guys use. I need to get this going before the weekend. ill be hauling a load up to RoadAmerica.

 

[JLDickmon]

hey guys, what about castrol fluid for 1.99 a quart? any good?? please let me know what you guys use. I need to get this going before the weekend. ill be hauling a load up to RoadAmerica.

you suck.