was just wondering what kind of transmission fluid everyone uses in their pickup. i think my owners manual said that it can take automatic fluid, but it just doesnt seem right to me. thanks

 

Everyone that wants their manual trans to last uses what the manual says to use. Your trans requires ATF.

 

I know with the Crown Vics, starting with the 1998 Model Year, Ford used Mercon V semi-synthetic fluid in their Crown Vics with the 4R70W. I have heard that they now specify Mercon V for all Dexron III/Mercon Ford transmissions as well. It may depend on which trans you have, but you will probably want to do the same with yours.

I just bought a '98 F-150 with a 4R70W, and as soon as I could, I drained the whole trans, torque converter and all, replaced the filter of course, and filled it with Mobil One full synthetic Mercon V.

Someone on this board who sounded very knowledgeable stated that Royal Purple ATF is a very BAD idea on at least some Ford transmissions. Hopefully he can add something here.

If you can't afford Mobil One, plain old Mercon V is still some EXCELLENT trans fluid. Before Mobil One MV came out, I used nothing but Castrol MV.

VMM

 

VA, the OP has a MANUAL transmission, it's a Mazda M5OD.

According to Ford, Mercon/Mercon V ATF is *required*. Use anything you want that meets those specs.

 

Put sycromesh in it and forget about it. You'll love it. I won't run anything but syncromesh in them anymore.
Alan

 

Redline MTL or MT-90. Best thing you can do for you manual tranny.

When new, my 5spd had the 3rd gear upshift grind problem. Ford put a new tranny in under warranty but the grind started coming back after about 20k miles. On the recommendation of a local speed shop, I put in Redline MTL. Not only did the 3rd gear upshift grind fade away, the transmission became noticeably quieter.

I now have about 100K miles on this stuff - the 3rd grind never came back and the tranny still shifts better than it did when new. I frequently tow a 5200lb Airstream and change the fluid at about 20-30k intervals. It takes 4qts.

I recently switched from MTL to Redline's MT90 which is a bit thicker and is recommended for Mazda built racing trannys.

MTL and MT-90 are significantly better for manual transmissions than automatic transmission fluid in every respect. If you want to read why, go here and click on the MTL Tech Info. http://www.redlineoil.com/products_g...7&categoryID=7