Transmission Fluid
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Joined: Oct 2002
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From: Kennesaw Ga.
I agree that there is a lot of information some of us have no use for; however, the info in chapter 4, 5, 6 on the type of fluid, the transmission family, common problems and fluid change interval would answer a good deal of questions a lot of us may have.
I didn't realize that it took a lot of time to navigate through the site, I have dsl. Sorry.......
I didn't realize that it took a lot of time to navigate through the site, I have dsl. Sorry.......
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From: mn
I have a 1997 Expedition with 5.4 engine and E40D(same as 4R100) that I switched to Amsoil tranny fluid. I have a trans temp guage screwed into a side pressure port. The trans temp has never gone above 160 degrees. The Amsoil fluid is fine for your tranny. Based on the tests I've seen of other synthetic tranny fluids you can't beat the Amsoil for high temp breakdown resistance and low temp flow.
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Neal~
That's a fail safe philosophy, especially with Red Line! What is the shelf life of D4? I've had a quart for almost a year (unopened). It's almost time for me to change the fluid, too. Do you think I should use teh quart or buy a "newer" one?
-Matt
That's a fail safe philosophy, especially with Red Line! What is the shelf life of D4? I've had a quart for almost a year (unopened). It's almost time for me to change the fluid, too. Do you think I should use teh quart or buy a "newer" one?
-Matt
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From: mn
You'll here alot of different opinions on alot of different synthetic fluids (am I right mf150). The main thing I would say is that any synthetic fluid you can find that meets the spec for the application is better than any petroleum. I run Amsoil Universal ATF in all my trannys and transfer cases that call for ATF and always have. Generally I change the tranny fluid every 30,000-40,000 miles. I do some heavy towing in the summer months and have seen my tranny run cooler on the gauge after installing the Amsoil. You will see the temps go down with any quality synthetic fluid.
Last edited by davet; May 11, 2003 at 11:04 PM.
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From: Clarksville, Tennessee
FYI,
Amsoil passes the tests for both Mercon and Mercon V, hence the reason it is rated for those specifications.
You will see reduced temps during high stress activities, like pulling, hauling, and stop and go.
http://www.amsoil.com/products/atf.html
Here is an FAQ that I found:
Also another FAQ:
I don't think you should have anything to worry about if you decide to use Amsoil in your transmission.
Good luck
Amsoil passes the tests for both Mercon and Mercon V, hence the reason it is rated for those specifications.
You will see reduced temps during high stress activities, like pulling, hauling, and stop and go.
http://www.amsoil.com/products/atf.html
Here is an FAQ that I found:
Q. How can AMSOIL's Universal ATF meet all the different frictional characteristics of the transmissions that it does?
A. AMSOIL Universal ATF chemistry has been separately tested against each auto manufacturer's specifications and meets all of the requirements for each. It can, therefore, be used in all applications specifying those requirements. The unique, and more advanced, chemistry of this lubricant allows it to meet the proper frictional characteristics for Ford MERCON, MERCON V, DEXRON III, Chrysler ATF+ through ATF+4, Allison C-3, C-4, and Caterpillar TO-2 and TO-3 specifications
A. AMSOIL Universal ATF chemistry has been separately tested against each auto manufacturer's specifications and meets all of the requirements for each. It can, therefore, be used in all applications specifying those requirements. The unique, and more advanced, chemistry of this lubricant allows it to meet the proper frictional characteristics for Ford MERCON, MERCON V, DEXRON III, Chrysler ATF+ through ATF+4, Allison C-3, C-4, and Caterpillar TO-2 and TO-3 specifications
Misinformation about AMSOIL Universal ATF
and Mercon and Mercon V Applications
Problem: AMSOIL INC. has been informed that some AMSOIL Dealers and their customers have experienced problems with their local Ford Dealership service department when bringing in the new AMSOIL Universal ATF for installation in their Ford vehicle transmission. They have been told that: A) You cannot put a Mercon V labeled transmission fluid in a Mercon application. B) That you cannot put a Mercon labeled transmission fluid in a Mercon V application (this is true). C) That you cannot put a dual usage labeled ATF product in the Mercon application or the Mercon V application. Since the new AMSOIL Universal Transmission Fluid is labeled dual usage, recommended for both Mercon and Mercon V applications, some Ford Dealership service managers are telling their customers that if they put the AMSOIL Universal ATF product in their transmission it will void their transmission warranty.
Answer: At least one oil company’s ATF product with a Mercon V rating does not also meet Mercon performance requirements. This has apparently caused a great deal of confusion about allowing Mercon V ATF to be back serviceable in Mercon applications. The AMSOIL Universal ATF has been formulated to meet or exceed both the Mercon and Mercon V specification, as well as G.M. Dexron III and Chrysler ATF+4. It is fully supported through documented testing. It is recommended for and can be used in ALL of the applications listed on the label. PERIOD.
If someone is misinformed on this issue and actually denies a manufacturer’s warranty coverage because of the use of AMSOIL Universal ATF Fluid in one of the applications for which it is recommended by AMSOIL INC., the AMSOIL Warranty coverage would apply. The consumer’s transmission would be repaired under the AMSOIL Warranty. AMSOIL INC. and our insurance company will legally pursue the dealership or the manufacturer to recover our costs. AMSOIL INC. would not make the recommendations on our label, or issue this statement, if we were not completely confident of our position on this matter. While we cannot control what individuals say about this subject, we can and do insure that consumers can use our product with complete confidence and without risk.
and Mercon and Mercon V Applications
Problem: AMSOIL INC. has been informed that some AMSOIL Dealers and their customers have experienced problems with their local Ford Dealership service department when bringing in the new AMSOIL Universal ATF for installation in their Ford vehicle transmission. They have been told that: A) You cannot put a Mercon V labeled transmission fluid in a Mercon application. B) That you cannot put a Mercon labeled transmission fluid in a Mercon V application (this is true). C) That you cannot put a dual usage labeled ATF product in the Mercon application or the Mercon V application. Since the new AMSOIL Universal Transmission Fluid is labeled dual usage, recommended for both Mercon and Mercon V applications, some Ford Dealership service managers are telling their customers that if they put the AMSOIL Universal ATF product in their transmission it will void their transmission warranty.
Answer: At least one oil company’s ATF product with a Mercon V rating does not also meet Mercon performance requirements. This has apparently caused a great deal of confusion about allowing Mercon V ATF to be back serviceable in Mercon applications. The AMSOIL Universal ATF has been formulated to meet or exceed both the Mercon and Mercon V specification, as well as G.M. Dexron III and Chrysler ATF+4. It is fully supported through documented testing. It is recommended for and can be used in ALL of the applications listed on the label. PERIOD.
If someone is misinformed on this issue and actually denies a manufacturer’s warranty coverage because of the use of AMSOIL Universal ATF Fluid in one of the applications for which it is recommended by AMSOIL INC., the AMSOIL Warranty coverage would apply. The consumer’s transmission would be repaired under the AMSOIL Warranty. AMSOIL INC. and our insurance company will legally pursue the dealership or the manufacturer to recover our costs. AMSOIL INC. would not make the recommendations on our label, or issue this statement, if we were not completely confident of our position on this matter. While we cannot control what individuals say about this subject, we can and do insure that consumers can use our product with complete confidence and without risk.
Good luck
Technical Article Contributor
Joined: Nov 2002
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From: Wisconsin
Amsoil seems like a good choice then. I have not seen any complaints on Redline or Amsoil. The tough part is to find a place with the T-Tec that will put it in for me.
The local gas station said no, they would only put in their stuff. I said show me, and he pointed to a barrel of Mercon. I said my trans takes Mercon V. He said he never heard of it. I'm still looking.
Im serioisly considering a filter change followed by a T-Tec fluid flush with Amsoil. That does seem to come recommended if if I'm willing to spend double the money or more.
The local gas station said no, they would only put in their stuff. I said show me, and he pointed to a barrel of Mercon. I said my trans takes Mercon V. He said he never heard of it. I'm still looking.
Im serioisly considering a filter change followed by a T-Tec fluid flush with Amsoil. That does seem to come recommended if if I'm willing to spend double the money or more.
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Nice truck and blue oval!
As for the flush, don't worry about it. I think it would be overkill since you have an 01, unless you have neglected changing your fluid. As for the synthetic, either brand has nothing but supporters. I chose Red Line, because I heard of it first. All the aircraft mechanics at my work use it in their vehicles. Do what you want, but either way you will be fine!
-Matt
PS stay away from the shop that told you, "I've never heard of Mercon V." !!!!!
As for the flush, don't worry about it. I think it would be overkill since you have an 01, unless you have neglected changing your fluid. As for the synthetic, either brand has nothing but supporters. I chose Red Line, because I heard of it first. All the aircraft mechanics at my work use it in their vehicles. Do what you want, but either way you will be fine!
-Matt
PS stay away from the shop that told you, "I've never heard of Mercon V." !!!!!
Last edited by mf150; May 12, 2003 at 10:48 PM.
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Joined: Nov 1999
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From: Clarksville, Tennessee
Originally posted by greencrew
Im serioisly considering a filter change followed by a T-Tec fluid flush with Amsoil. That does seem to come recommended if if I'm willing to spend double the money or more.
Im serioisly considering a filter change followed by a T-Tec fluid flush with Amsoil. That does seem to come recommended if if I'm willing to spend double the money or more.
Put on an external full flow, Fill it up with Amsoil and plan on never changing it. Sample once a year!! with a filter change.
External Transmission Filter Kit
These kits allow the installation of a Ford one quart spin-on by-pass filter onto the cooler return line or auxiliary cooler hose. This protects the transmission lube circuit from debris which may pass through the cooler. Kit includes filter mount, all necessary fittings and hose, and a Motorcraft FL 1A or equivalent* oil filter. Please indicate cooler line outside diameter when ordering.
These kits allow the installation of a Ford one quart spin-on by-pass filter onto the cooler return line or auxiliary cooler hose. This protects the transmission lube circuit from debris which may pass through the cooler. Kit includes filter mount, all necessary fittings and hose, and a Motorcraft FL 1A or equivalent* oil filter. Please indicate cooler line outside diameter when ordering.
Automatic transmissions have internal filters designed to capture only large particles. The problem with this is they are not very efficient. The reason, they are on the suction side of the pump, and pumps cannot pull fluid thru much of a restriction or filter that has any amount of filtration capabilities. Also, the problem still lies in that you must pull the pan to change or check the filter. Now, you can simply spin on a new filter element.
How it works:
The filter is on the "push" side of the pump, which lends itself to adding one with increased efficiency. Normally, you have the dirty fluid in the pan, the filter hopefully catches the real big stuff before it enters the valves and pump. Then it leaves the transmission as "dirty" fluid. This fluid will have clutch dust and possibly varnished fluid, which are all normal in any automatic transmission, but now, you catch it BEFORE it makes back to the pan. So, the filter in the pan never gets dirty and acts as a backup for the unseen. This unit has a micron rating of 22 microns. That is plenty for any transmission. Pan filters have no micron rating. Many are nothing but screens. This unit does also have a safety feature. It has an internal bypass set at 25 psi should the filter ever be left on and a plugged filter happened. So, the safety margin is already there so you can relax. This also would act as a cooler since it is detached from the trans and the air flow over the filter element would help to dissipate heat.
How it works:
The filter is on the "push" side of the pump, which lends itself to adding one with increased efficiency. Normally, you have the dirty fluid in the pan, the filter hopefully catches the real big stuff before it enters the valves and pump. Then it leaves the transmission as "dirty" fluid. This fluid will have clutch dust and possibly varnished fluid, which are all normal in any automatic transmission, but now, you catch it BEFORE it makes back to the pan. So, the filter in the pan never gets dirty and acts as a backup for the unseen. This unit has a micron rating of 22 microns. That is plenty for any transmission. Pan filters have no micron rating. Many are nothing but screens. This unit does also have a safety feature. It has an internal bypass set at 25 psi should the filter ever be left on and a plugged filter happened. So, the safety margin is already there so you can relax. This also would act as a cooler since it is detached from the trans and the air flow over the filter element would help to dissipate heat.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 1999
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From: Clarksville, Tennessee
Click here for "12 Easy Steps To Changing Your Transmission Fluid"
http://www.amsoil.com/faqs/faq8.htm
http://www.amsoil.com/faqs/faq8.htm