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Justin
Dodge Dakota
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3/22/2006
16:34:05

Subject: Synthetic ATFs
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Been looking around for synthetic oil for my tranny. Talked to amsoil briefly with a few questons. On their website it charts the applications that could use their universal ATF. There were quite a few. The part that gets me is the ability of a fluid to work with so many different applications doesn't make it better. (IMO) And in fact, may be worse for the chrysler/dodge application trannys. Searching, searching, I found the only synthetic out there that is made specifically for the dodge 7176 tranny and is a synthetic is the redline C+ ATF. I am going to go with that one if no one around here knows something better, or is against this fluid. I looked into buying the amsoil and found that its just not for me. Anyone else try something else with good results? Maybe even the Redline Oil?

Here the website with the Redline Oil, check it out and tell me what you think:

http://www.redlineoil.com/products_gearlubricants.asp?pvID=78&prodID=59&subcatID=19

Justin



Tineka
Dodge Dakota
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3/22/2006
18:17:37

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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I agree with you justin .... i dont trust "universal" fluids. I tried looking on Amsoils website for independent lab test reports and i cant seem to find them....



Dan M
Dodge Dakota
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3/22/2006
19:16:17

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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My biggest problem with amsoil is that I can't find it easily locally.

alot of people on here say that the use and like the amsoil universal ATF. I wonder how many miles they have used it? and under what conditions.

- Dan M



Justin
Dodge Dakota
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3/22/2006
19:41:58

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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"I wonder how many miles they have used it? and under what conditions."

Thats a pretty fair question Dan M. Maybe someone will chime in. ;)




Joe M.
Dodge Dakota
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3/22/2006
20:30:26

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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Redline is quality stuff guys
i run their oil in my harley and their shock proof gear oil in the tranny on the bike too

will soon be running the shock proof in the Dak tranny and rear, most local speed shops carry it
and if not they can get it quick enough
(any red line product)



wahrsuul
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
09:48:59

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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I don't use the ATF from Amsoil, but I use the oil in my bikes and soon my Dak (just ordered it). If you have problems finding it locally, do what I did. Go to the Amsoil site and get a preferred customer account. Then you pay what the dealers pay and they ship it to you. Its $20 a year for the membership, but if you spend over $100 a year, it pays for itself.

Case in point; at my local Honda shop, the 10-40 Amsoil MC oil is over $8 ($8.25 I think) a qt. Online I paid $5.75. Since we have 3 bikes that run on it, I bought a case. The oil filters they sell are either synthetic material or made by Wix. All 3 of our bikes use the same filter so I got several of those too.

I'm looking seriously at getting the By-Pass filtration system. With my account, I'll save about $40 on it at least.



Jeremy
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
11:38:59

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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I recomend useing Mopar ATF +3 or 4 whichever your tranny takes. the tranny will work like its designed to. think about it, chrysler designed the tranny to use their oil.

Jeremy



Booster
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
11:49:18

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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Don't mean to bash on amsoil, but another thing I have found fustrating on their site is the tax they put on internet orders. I don't think you're suppose to do that. In fact, when doing my taxes this year there was a space for all those internet purchases that I am suppose to voluntarily report. I could be way off the mark, but I don't think you're suppose to charge for tax over the internet.

OH,WELL.

I like their motor oil any way. DOn't know about the trans. oil.





Booster
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
11:50:17

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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Don't mean to bash on amsoil, but another thing I have found fustrating on their site is the tax they put on internet orders. I don't think you're suppose to do that. In fact, when doing my taxes this year there was a space for all those internet purchases that I am suppose to voluntarily report. I could be way off the mark, but I don't think you're suppose to charge for tax over the internet.

OH,WELL.

I like their motor oil any way. DOn't know about the trans. oil.





N56629
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
13:09:22

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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Whether or not you pay sales tax depends on what state you live in and what state you are buying from. Buying on the internet is no different than buying over the phone.



Booster
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
13:26:35

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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Yeah, well... IT STILL SUCKS :P , :)



OBIO3
Dodge Dakota
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3/23/2006
14:49:16

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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There is one guy in here that says he has 500,000 miles on his truck and I believe everything is filled with amsoil. If not I 'm sure the auto trany is as he has stated this and stated amsoil is all he has run in it sense first change. There was another guy mentioned 250 something thousand on amsoil trany fluid. I have had amsoil in everything on my truck for 45,000 but the motor. That has mobil 1 EP . The Shop where I had amsoil put in has sense sold out and new owner dropped amsoil in exchange for cheap stuff. He lost a ton of business over that move. Most of the help quit him over this and opened there own place.In case your wondering, mine is a 99 4x4 CC 5.2L

So many problems .... So little time



Shatto
Dodge Dakota
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3/26/2006
03:52:17

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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500,000 miles on the original 3.9 engine and automatic transmision of my 98.
Is that proof that AMSOIL works?
Engine has dual by-pass filters, the spin-on changed at 15,000 miles and oil added.
Transmission fluid is changed, usually with a reverse flush machine (14 quarts).
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles I send oil samples to Oil Analyzers, AMSOIL's lab, for analysis and follow their recommendations. Depending on how much idling, some days the engine stays on all day, I may change oil and filters at 30,000 miles or 100,000 or more.
GOOGLE AMSOIL and be sure you go to the corporite website. They will sell to you directly and/or have a local dealer contact you.
Join. Savings on your first order of filter and oil will pay for it.
Tech info is there.



InSpector-Gee
Dodge Dakota
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3/26/2006
04:33:23

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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Yo. 500000 miles is by far the most I have ever heard. what kind of driving do you do? do you work and drive for a living in a dodge dakota? must be becuz 500000 in 8 years. you gotta drive over 150 per day including sat. and sun. i'd love to see a picture of your speedometer on this website. first it be an honor to all dakotas, an d second we might believe you . . .



Forseti
Dodge Dakota
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3/26/2006
11:56:42

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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I was at Autozone Last night and they had Valvoline ATF +4 in stock..... i think it was like $6 a quart



AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
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3/26/2006
13:55:43

Synthetic ATFs - Amsoil Synthetic ATF - Forum
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Many Dodge Dakota owners on this site use AMSOIL ATF (just ask around)!

Since 1999, due to the special requirements of their automatic transmissions, Chrysler has recommended a unique ATF+4 formulation. In addition, Chrysler has been recommending ATF+4 for all previous makes and models of Chrysler Corporation vehicles. ATF+4 is a VERY highly friction modified fluid.
__________________________________________________


As a substitute for ATF+4, please consider ...

AMSOIL Synthetic Universal Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Recommended for applications requiring the following specifications:

.......... Chrysler ATF+, ATF+2, ATF+3, ATF+4

AMSOIL Synthetic Universal Automatic Transmission Fluid is a universal ATF designed to exceed nearly all foreign and domestic performance requirements. It improves fuel efficiency, reduces transmission temperatures by 20 to 50 degrees F and increases transmission life. Provides unsurpassed thermal stability and at least 3 times (and up to 5 times) the life of conventional ATFs. Delivers maximum protection for towing and other severe-duty applications. Formulated with synthetic basestocks and the top-of-the-line additive package, AMSOIL ATF provides top performance, durability & efficiency.

Key Benefits to You:

(1) Cleaner transmission components, (2) More efficient power transfer, (3) Lower Transmission temperatures, (4) Dramatically less transmission wear, (5) Smoother cold temperature operation, (6) Long drain intervals

Recommended for applications requiring the following specifications:

GM Dexron II, Dexron III; Ford Mercon, Mercon V; Chrysler ATF+, ATF+2, ATF+3, ATF+4; Mitsubishi Diamond SP II & III; Allison C-3 & C-4 and TES-295; Caterpillar Powershift Transmission TO-2 & TO-3; Voith Commercial Transmissions; GM Strasbourg (European Imports) and Opel; Applications requiring Honda Z-1 transmission fluids; Toyota Type T and T-IV
__________________________________________________


__________ __________

Package Sizes and Retail Prices (as of 03/01/06, subject to change)

1-Quart Bottle ........................ $ 8.65
1-Quart Bottles (case of 12) ..... $ 102.60
2.5-Gallon Bottle ..................... $ 80.15
2.5-Gallon Bottles (case of 2) .... $ 158.30
30-Gallon Drum ....................... $ 746.00
55-Gallon Drum ....................... $1,300.00
AMSOIL Hand Pump for Bottles ... $ 11.10

SAVE MONEY ----- Become an AMSOIL Preferred Customer (like joining a Costco) and buy at WHOLESALE / DEALER COST.
__________________________________________________

You can REQUEST A FREE AMSOIL CATALOG below.



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
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3/26/2006
14:00:18

Synthetic ATFs - Amsoil Synthetic ATF - Forum
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GENERAL TRANSMISSION INFORMATION

SOME THINGS CHANGE

Today's transmission pretty much serves the same function as always, but now there are more components. In addition to clutch packs, plates, gears, valves, and bearings, we have solenoids and sensors, and a lot more orifices where contaminants can cause blockages that interfere with performance.

One thing that has not changed is that transmission fluid remains a necessary "component" of the transmission. And fluid quality is more important than ever before.

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) not only cools working parts and reduces wear, it also serves as a hydraulic fluid to actuate valves used for shifting. An argument can be made that no other component is as important as your ATF.

WHAT ELSE IS NEW?

The requirements placed on ATF have changed in other ways as well. Because of the aerodynamics in many of today's vehicles, the overall drivetrain is simply not getting cooled off the way it used to. For this reason, transmissions run hotter, so hot in fact that interior carpets have caught fire during some tests where SUVs were pulling heavy loads.

Furthermore, because of the sensors and solenoids, fluid cleanliness has become an absolute requirement. Debris and gunk in the transmission fluid will cause interference and literally do damage in ways that less sophisticated transmissions never experienced before.

The biggest change in today's transmissions comes from the fact that the shifting is no longer driven by mechanical action, but rather is controlled by electromechanical hydraulic solenoids (valves).

The result is that the smallest amount of debris can clog or restrict solenoids causing them to not work properly or even burn out.

In the past it was the clutches themselves that physically wore out, but now the tranny can fail prematurely while everything else is fine because clutches aren't getting the correct pressure to keep from slipping. Or even worse, the computer brain signals instructions for two competing gears to engage at the same time. For this reason you need a high quality Synthetic ATF that has a better additive package to hold material in suspension. And by reducing friction this synthetic fluid reduces wear so that less wear material is left floating around in there.

THE SYNTHETIC SOLUTION

As with the engine, so with the transmission ... Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluids offer superior protection, as well as cleaner and cooler operation. The heat issue cited above is a very real problem. Synthetics reduce friction and keep transmissions cooler.

With regard to cleanliness, synthetic fluids are less vulnerable to oxidation and breakdown. They keep orifices clean, and the tranny experiences smoother operation.

CLOSING THOUGHT

A Premium Synthetic ATF will go double the lifespan of conventional transmission fluids, and will make a huge difference in the performance of your vehicles.

This is an often neglected area where it really pays to get educated. Most motorists do not realize how vital these drivetrain fluids are for keeping their vehicles on the road. Especially SUVs and light trucks that are used to haul heavy loads or pull heavy trailers.

As in most areas of life we either pay now or pay later. Purchasing Synthetic ATF is a small price to pay when you can gain 100,000 extra miles at the other end of the service life of your car or light truck.

All that I ask is that you Consider Amsoil Synthetic Universal ATF for all of your automatic transmissions.
__________________________________________________

You can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
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3/26/2006
14:02:52

Synthetic ATF - Amsoil Synthetic ATF - Forum
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For those of you interested in DIY when Changing Your Transmission Fluid.

If you are going to DIY ... You can pick up a filter kit from AutoZone for about $10 and it contains the filter and gasket. It is not nessasary to use any silicon or gasket sealer just be sure your pan surface is clean. NOTE: It is a messy DIY job.
__________________________________________________


Changing Your Transmission Fluid in 12 EASY Steps:

1. Make sure the fluid is warm. Warm up your Dakota so the transmission is at normal operating temperature. Pull the transmission dipstick. Fresh fluid is translucent and cherry red. Some darkening is normal, but if it is reddish brown or mustard color and smells like burnt varnish, it is worn out.

2. Drain the fluid by loosening the pan. Select the correct filter replacement based on pan shape and prepare a large pan to catch the fluid. Then loosen each pan bolt a turn or two and loosen one corner more than rest. Drain mostly from this corner.

3. Finish removing the pan and any gasket material from the pan or case. Avoid scratching the metal and make sure the pan’s gasket surface isn’t bent or distorted.

4. Remove the old filter. Most transmission filters are held in place with a bolt or two, but some are held by a clip. Be careful to include O-Rings or other seals.

5. Install a new filter. Use the clips or bolts from the old filter. Be sure O-Rings, etc. are in place. If the filter has a long intake neck, gently push the neck into place without unseating the O-Ring.

6. Clean the pan thoroughly. Inspect the pan before cleaning. A small amount of fine grey clutch dust is normal. However, if you find metal shavings, there has been transmission damage. Clean the pan with solvent and wipe dry so there is no harmful residue.

7. Position gasket on pan. Some gaskets have four holes slightly smaller than the rest to allow four bolts through the pan and through these smaller holes to hold the gasket in place.

8. Hand tighten pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern. After that, use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to proper ft-lbs as per manufacturer.

9. Refill the transmission using only the amount shown as “refill capacity” in the owners manual (or "AMSOIL Product Selection Guide”), using the type of fluid specified for the vehicle.

10. If doing only a partial fluid replacement, skip to instruction 12 below. If doing a complete fluid replacement, follow the steps in instruction 11.

11. You now have replaced the fluid in the pan. To replace the fluid in the torque converter and oil cooler also, follow these steps.

Step 1. Obtain the total system capacity of the vehicle from the manufacturer. Have this amount readily available.

Step 2. Disconnect the oil cooler line from the oil cooler. As you may not know which is the pressure side and which is the return side, have both directed so the stream of fluid will be directed toward a receptacle.

Step 3. With another person, be prepared to add ATF to the fill area as it is being pumped out of the oil cooler line.

Step 4. Start the engine, and as the old fluid is pumped out, add fresh fluid to the pan.

Step 5. When either the fluid color brightens or the total capacity has been replaced, shut the engine off and re-attach the oil cooler line. All fluids has now been changed.

12. Recheck the fluid level. With the truck on level ground, set the parking brake and the transmission in “Park” or “Neutral.” Let the engine idle for a few minutes. Shift the transmission into different positions before returning the lever to “Park” or “Neutral.” Check the fluid level again and check for leaks.
__________________________________________________

This is really a "two-person" DIY operation. The ATF will come out faster than it goes in ... so you may need to stop and restart the engine a few times.

PLEASE CONSIDER ... AMSOIL SYNTHETIC UNIVERSAL ATF.



Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com

AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products



OBIO3
Dodge Dakota
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3/26/2006
15:00:25

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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FOR STEVE...... You instructed me to email you and you would put me in contact with a local dealer. This is the second post asking what happened. Anyway, at this point I have changed my mind. Reason is I have a 100,000 mile warrenty on engine and trany that requires changes making amsoil to costly for me.
One other question. I also have a 95 Plymouth mini van with the 3 speed automatic trany. At this point it has 29,000 on it. Trany changes are 30,000 . It seems crysler recomended the +4 for everything EXCEPT the pre 99 mini vans. So it would seem I have a problem. If my information is correct, +3 is being fazed out. Your saying ALL crysler products are recommended to use +4 . Where did you see or learn this from. For sure one of us is wrong and with luck it will be me.

So many problems .... So little time



Forseti
Dodge Dakota
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3/26/2006
15:17:17

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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I dont trust AMSOIL.... if it is sooo good why doesnt the company have it in all the part stores? Why do they rely on "dealers" ?



Hey now..
Dodge Dakota
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3/26/2006
16:12:10

RE: Synthetic ATFs
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One question I did have for a Amsoil Representative, is the universal ATF.

Could you suggest reading material or information related to the design of transmission fluid that isn't biased one way or another? The difficulty I have with it though is when it comes to the sole purpose chysler's application and the applied purpose of amsoil's ATF - do they mesh? Do you know the differences and similarities when comparing the two fluids? The differences should support higher standards and longer life. I think you have shown that Amsoil does that. But the only information that hasn't been made out is the similarities, and aside from the obvious? Ie: both ATF, both lubricate the transmission components, both come in a bottle, etc... Where do they line up? ATF 7176 ( 3+ ) and 4+ are recommended for PROPER FUNCTION of chrysler applications. Amsoil universal ATF is recommended for LONGEVITY, HEAT REDUCTION, COMPONENT CLEANLINESS, etc..., in universal applications. Those are sure highlights to anyone who wants to keep their tranny. But the issue is still unclear to me if this promotes the proper function of my chrysler tranny - aside from longevity, heat reduction, component cleanliness? Is it chrysler ATF 3+ compliant in all manufacture specifications? Do you care to share where it is complaint and where it is not - assuming that it is?

Thanks for your time Steve,

Justin



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