Amsoil additives available to ATF+4?

[Scooby]

I changed my g-56 transmission fluid on Saturday and tried out the Amsoil Universal Transmission Fluid (which is stated to meet Chrysler ATF+4 requirements. ). I also used the same fluid to replace the old stuff in the transfer case while I was at it.



I was surprised by my results - the transmission actually feels slightly notchier and I have a slightly more difficult time getting the transmission into 1st or sometimes 2nd gear at a stop.



I purchased this vehicle used, and since the previous owner had everything done at the dealership, I would only imagine that he had Mopar fluids throughout. This is my first Amsoil purchase I was expecting it to feel smoother than the stock stuff.



I've heard of some folks adding additives to the transmission to get rid of the notchy feeling - is there something that Amsoil makes that would smooth this out for me?



NOTE: This isn't intended to be a brand bashing thread - I'm just wondering if I can improve what I perceive to be a less-than-ideal result.



Thanks.

 

[Regcabguy]

I put Amsoil ATF in@ 2,000 miles and experienced slightly better shifting@ cold temps. It always goes into 1st or 2nd easily at stops. I'll probably go back to ATF+4 in a bit.

 

[TTimmons]

Amsoil does not make any additives per se for their transmission fluids. They do have a product called Engine and Transmission Flush, which you would put in just before changing the oil, to help release any buildup within your transmission. Just to cover the basics, did you verify the fluid level is correct, at warm temperature?

 

[Scooby]

I got a bit over 6 quarts in it. The way my truck was parked, I had a very slight sideways tilt to the driver's side - which should have allowed me to get in a tad more than if it had been perfectly flat. But to answer your question directly - no I haven't checked the level after the service.



I'll likely leave the fluid in there for now - but I was thinking maybe I should have gone with the Amsoil syncromesh instead? Although I do take comfort in sticking with the specified fluids... . some engineers do know what they are talking about.....

 

[TTimmons]

I remember talking to someone on the forum about them having better luck with the syncromesh. Can't remember who it was now. I'll do a search as soon as i can and try to get you that info.

 

[04blackcherry]

Think about what the syncros want. Additives can go the wrong way and make things too slippery. I have the NV5600. I'm using Redline MTL. It is supposed to be specified for this application. I did not notice an improvement in shifting, but have not noticed a decrease either. The Dodge service manual has warnings all over in it that specify ATF+4 only when replacing certain fluids. Could be a Dodge marketing thing but sometimes the original stuff works best. There is aftermarket ATF+4 out there. I recently purchased the Valvolene brand for my transfer case and power steering.

 

[cerberusiam]

I was surprised by my results - the transmission actually feels slightly notchier and I have a slightly more difficult time getting the transmission into 1st or sometimes 2nd gear at a stop.

Your taking a significant chance by going away from the factory fluid. Aside from the fact the trans is used to the other fluid, ATF+4 and Amsoil ATF Universal are NOT the same fluid, not the same formulation, do not react the same way.



The Amsoil is no better than the ATF+4, just costs more. Since you noticed the difference its telling you WRONG fluid.

 

[Scooby]

Your taking a significant chance by going away from the factory fluid. Aside from the fact the trans is used to the other fluid, ATF+4 and Amsoil ATF Universal are NOT the same fluid, not the same formulation, do not react the same way.



The Amsoil is no better than the ATF+4, just costs more. Since you noticed the difference its telling you WRONG fluid.

I was going to say that I can't really agree with you that it is the "wrong fluid"... And that this is my first try with an Amsoil product, but I did read the label and it does say that it is specified to meet Chrysler ATF+4 requirements. At least that is what I thought it said... ... upon re-reading, I think it actually says:



From the AMSOIL website:

"AMSOIL ATF is recommended for transmission, hydraulic and other applications requiring any of the following specifications:



* GM DEXRON® II, III & VI

* Ford MERCON®, MERCON® V & SP

* Chrysler ATF+ through ATF+4®

* Honda Z-1 (Not for use in CVT transmissions)

* Toyota Type T and T-IV

* Mitsubishi/Hyundai Diamond SP II & III

* Allison C-3, C-4

* Caterpillar TO-2

* Voith G607, G1363

* ZF TE-ML 14A, 14B & 14C

* Mercedes Benz 236. 1, 236. 2, 236. 6, 236. 7, 236. 9

* BMW 7045E

* NAG 1 & 2

* JWS 3309

* LT 71141 (ESSO)

* Nissan Matic D, J & K

* Vickers I-286S & M-2950S"





So to me, this doesn't sound like it meets the requirements, does it?? I think I'll leave it in for a week and then probably switch back to the ATF+4..... another lesson learned... . at least this one wasn't THAT expensive!



[Again, I'm not bashing any brand... . this is just my experience]

 

[cerberusiam]

So to me, this doesn't sound like it meets the requirements, does it?? I think I'll leave it in for a week and then probably switch back to the ATF+4..... another lesson learned... . at least this one wasn't THAT expensive!

Thats is exactly what I meant. Amsoil may recommend it for use in Chrysler auto transmissions, but, that does not mean it is the same formulation and has the same characteristics as ATF+4. Lets face it, if the formulation was exact then it would be ATF+4 packaged under another name and unless they had rights to do so, would be patent infringement.



Again, this is not an auto where the fluid was intended to work so there could be unknowns in other applications.

 

[macdaddy]

Your taking a significant chance by going away from the factory fluid. Aside from the fact the trans is used to the other fluid, ATF+4 and Amsoil ATF Universal are NOT the same fluid, not the same formulation, do not react the same way.



The Amsoil is no better than the ATF+4, just costs more. Since you noticed the difference its telling you WRONG fluid.

Good post... ...

ATF+4 is an excellent synthetic transmission fluid. Why would anyone want to mess with it?????



Mac