2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Dexron 3 or ATF+3

[tractorface]

I am installing a new cooler line for my temperature sender and I anticipate losing up to a gallon of ATF. I have a stock trans with the factory recomended ATF in it. Can I top it off with Dexron 3? Is that the same as ATF+3 that Dodge tells us to use. I just want to buy the right stuff. Before anyone says it, I am not switching to any Hi tech synthetic space shuttle oil, I just want to top it off correctly.

Thanks



I am only about 7,000 miles into my last transmission fluid change (dealer did it as condition of truck purchase) No towing since change. Everything is in excellent shape

 

[kevincook]

I had thought we had ATF+4 in our trucks?



KC

 

[Midnight]

Atf +4 is recommended for these trucks.

 

[tractorface]

I was going from my bad memory. Guess I better get the book out. Thanks!

 

[Dennis Garrett]

Dexron III & ATF-3 are completely different oils, stay with one or the other. Dexron is usually for GM vehicles & some others, the ATF-4 is for Mopar products. When I had my transmission upgraded/rebuilt, & new torque installed, & the system was refilled with Dexron III. The rebuilder (Dave Gorerends) said it doesn't really matter in our trucks, but a few cars or vans built by Chrysler required the special ATF-3 or 4, so to make it less confusing, they put the same requirement for all their cars, trucks & vans. Mine's been doing great on the Dex-III, but it hasn't been mixed with any Chrysler ATF still in the system either. Dex is a lot cheaper too. If you have ATF now, stay with it. If you have a rebuild, and the system is completely flushed ready for a fresh fill, you can go with either one.

 

[pwr2tow]

The model year trucks 2001 and earlier use ATF+3. You can buy quaker state ATF+3 at napa or wal-mart for $2. 00 and some small change. No need for the expensive +4 in a 99 year model truck.



Ron

 

[tractorface]

Thanks for the save Ronsram, Checked my Owners manual and Service manual when I got home and ATF+3 IS the correct fluid for a 99'. Guess my memory ain't so bad afterall. ATF+3 it is! At least until I send my Trans to Goerends!

Thanks again Ronsram

 

[pwr2tow]

Your welcome.



Ron

 

[illflem]

Suggest you read this thread where the transmission gurus give Dextron a thumbs up as the fluid of choice http://216.235.147.117/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=61118

 

[pwr2tow]

In a stock transmission I would use what the factory recommends. In a modified transmission I would use what the manufacturer recommends.



Ron

 

[Chipstien]

Seems simple, during warrantee period use what manufacturer recommends. After warantee run Dexron III / Mercon. I don't want a fluid that is going to allow my transmission to slip without me knowing it.