Trans Fluid

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RamElectricalRet

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What trans fluid should I use in a 1993 D250 5.2L 4-spd auto? I presume the original Dexron has been superseded by a different type or style?
 

PaPitt

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A quality Parts store should be able to tell you that answer.
Yes I'll say Dexron. But an old NAPA or a Car Quest store.
Sorry I'm just not sure you always get someone who knows the answer at Auto ZONE.
 

Kodachrome Wolf

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Not sure if your '93 has it stamped on the stick, but I'd check to say if it says something like "Use Mopar ATF 7176 or Dexron II".

DexII was superseded by Dexron III years ago. You can find generic DexIII/Mercon ATF at virtually any parts store.

That said, for the fun nuances, the DexIII license lapsed a while ago as GM moved to Dexron VI. Mopar's ATF 7176 became part of their ATF+ series, and they're currently on ATF+4, which is supposed to supercede the 7176 specification.

At the end of the day, you can either use the generic Dexron III/Mercon ATF, Mopar ATF+4, or Dexron VI. All of these are backwards compatible with the original specifications, but if you switch up to the modern ATF+4 or DexVI, I'd strongly suggest sticking with just one from here on out and not mixing the two.
 

1970Pelle

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ATF Plus 4. I remember when this change was implemented by Mopar. Everyone balked at the idea of just one ATF. And mixing ATF, after years of being told never mix your fluids.
But after seeing and using for years. Its the way to go. I have never heard or seen anything but good by making the switch to ATF Plus 4. One thing at first was the price of ATF Plus 4. But today prices have balanced out.
One important thing about ATF plus 4. Is that it will turn brown in color over time. The fluid is not burnt, what is happening that most folks don't know. Is ATF is clear fluid, and they dye it red. And the dye looses its color over time.

NOTE :THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO ALL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CHRYSLER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS EXCEPT 1999 AND EARLIER MINIVANS.

DISCUSSION:

A new transmission fluid (ATF+4(R) - Type 9602) has been developed and is being used as factory fill for all vehicles with Chrysler automatic transmissions. Until now, vehicles originally filled with ATF+2 or ATF+3 were to be serviced with ATF+3. Effective immediately, it is recommended that all vehicles with Chrysler automatic transmissions except for 1999 and earlier minivans be serviced with ATF+4(R). ATF+3 should continue to be used for 1999 and earlier minivans because of the potential for torque converter shudder during break in. For all other applications the ATF+4(R) fluid offers significant benefits as outlined below.

NOTE :ATF+4(R) MUST ALWAYS BE USED IN VEHICLES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY FILLED WITH ATF+4(R).

NOTE :SERVICE INTERVALS DO NOT CHANGE. THE SERVICE INTERVAL CURRENTLY IN EFFECT FOR A GIVEN VEHICLE SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE FOLLOWED.

NOTE :ATF+4(R) IS COMPATIBLE WITH ATF+3 AND CAN BE USED TO TOP OFF VEHICLES THAT CURRENTLY HAVE ATF+2 OR ATF+3. DO NOT USE ATF+2 OR ATF+3 TO TOP OFF VEHICLES THAT HAVE ATF+4(R) FLUID.

BENEFITS

^ Better anti-wear properties

^ Improved rust/corrosion prevention

^ Controls oxidation

^ Eliminates deposits

^ Controls friction

^ Retains anti-foaming properties

^ Superior properties for low temperature operation


FLUID COLOR

Mopar ATF+4(R) is a World Class Fluid having exceptional durability. However, the red dye used in ATF+4°R is not permanent; as the fluid ages it may become darker or appear brown in color. ATF+4(R) also has a unique odor that may change with age. With ATF+4(R) fluid, color and odor are no longer indicators of fluid condition and do not support a fluid change.

 
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