Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) ATF+4 vs ATF+3

[JBlomenberg]

Changed my transmission fluid and filter this weekend. The B&M drain plug is a nice suggestion from the latest magazine. It was easy to install, and will hopefully save me a shower next time around. The filter and gasket kit from Geno's also worked well.

The only hang up in the whole process was the transmission fluid. I have an '01 2500 truck (4-speed auto, hence the posting). The owner's manual specs ATF+4 spec 9602. All I could find at all the local parts stores, Autozone, Advance, Napa, etc. , only had ATF+3 or all the other Dexcron and Mercon specs.

The guy at Autozone said that ATF+3 will work, and since it was the last place I had stopped, and I was getting frustrated, I took him at his word. The truck drives fine, and I haven't noticed any difference in shift quality. Anyone have any insite as to differences and any negative effects of using ATF+3 instead of ATF+4? I figure I'm actually running ATF +3. 5 since I didn't drain the converter...



Thanks,



Justin Blomenberg

2001 Ram 2500

 

[KenHokie]

Justin, I also have an '01, 2500. I've been using ATF+3 since last spring. +3 is less slippery than +4 and since slipping is a big problem with these trannys and mine was past the 36,000 mile warrenty period, I gave it a try. I've towed my 5th wheel all over Yellowstone last summer and pulled my boat over high passes here in UT with out any problems. I did notice that the shifts are firmer with +3 but everthing I read about auto's says you want firm shifts. I guess time will tell if its doing any damage or not.

 

[JBlomenberg]

Thanks for the reply!

 

[Fireman Dave]

I remember correctly, +4 was a TSB that came out in 2000 for the '01 trucks. Before that, +3 was what Dodge said to use. In fact, I think my owner's manual says +3 (or is it the service manual?). I think +4 is a semi synthetic, and it used to be that it was only available from Mopar. I'm not sure if you can get it anywhere else even now.

 

[Challenger-II]

Auto stores won't carry ATF+3..... ATF+4 is sold by the dealer. Get ready and bend over $$$$ :{



I know my '99 came with +3 and a TSB says to refill with +4 when changed. I have stuck with the +3 myself. I'm sure the transmission gurus could offer better advice on which one to use on either a stock or modified transmission. My trans is stock and I'm not sure which one to use?

 

[Makensmoke]

My book for my 00 says use +3 and for the last 75k thats all that its seen. I too installed the B&M drain plug last weekend. WHY didn't I do this earlier??? Now I will be more faithfull to dump that fluid. Even if its just what the drainplug gets out, it'd probably help keep it fresh if I do this during engine oil service and change the filter normally. (without paying the dealer to pump it all out, I always just dump the pan)

10 bucks for a few qts of +3? cheap security for me!

 

[ntillm01]

I get +4 at the dealer, but my dealer is good with pricing. I know I have bought it at the local Murrays Auto. There is one near me who carries several Mopar maintenance items, like filters, etc.



I don't know about the +3 vs +4 and one being more slippery than the other. Across the board, Mopar recommends +4 for everything. Even for the trans kit I got (new clutches/bands/seals) from Mopar Performance for my 1972 Plymouth Roadrunner.

 

[ben_ak]

I paid $26/gallon for +4 up here in Anchorage (from Lithia Dodge). I do have a modified valve body... I didn't really notice much besides cooler operating temps. Maybe 15-20 degrees less under similar conditions.



-Ben

 

[robertyoke]

amsoil makes atf that meets +4 requirements, and unlike the stuff that dc sells it is 100% synthetic.