Pennzoil ATF+3?

[hammong]

I've seen a lot of notes flying around about ATF+4 and the various synthetic transmission fluids that are available. I recently picked up a transmission filter and a case of Pennzoil ATF+3 in preparation for changing my transmission lube after the first 25K.



Is this a good route to go? I don't tow and I don't put "much" strain on my auto transmission. The truck is my urban warrior vehicle, able to level small Volvos and Audis with minimal discomfort.



I plan on changing my ATF/filter every 25K or so miles. Ideas? Should I give the ATF+3 to my mechanic for his DC customers and get some of the Mopar ATF+4 at whatever exhorbitant cost they're asking?



Greg

 

[TXRam]

I use the Pennzoil ATF+3 myself - I have had no problems with my set-up (see below).

 

[GFoley]

It's in mine too. I think the FSM calls for Chrysler 7176 or +3 fluid. I am thankful I can find +3 when the mfgrs also make +4. The way some retailers work I am surprised thats not the only thing available.

 

[GBerry]

I was at the local 5er a couple of weeks ago talking to the service know-it-alls the trans tech told me to check the dipstick and see if the stamping on it said ATF+ 3 or ATF+ four he said if you have the ATF+ four that you dont have to change it till 50k and if you have one of the earler trucks that calls for ATF+3 Dodge recomends 12k changes but he said if I was not towing heavy or much that I could extend the change intervals to 15k - 18k and probaly not have any problems now whether that means with any warranty issues I didnt think to make him clarify!... ..... I put the valvoline ATF+3 in mine dont like penzoil anything no reasons I wish to get into!!

seeing as you have a y2k yours should be the ATF+3 I think only the 01. 5 takes the +4

sorry this is so long !

GB

 

[hammong]

I can't believe that Dodge recommends a 12K transmission fluid change interval. Even a ATF +3 fluid should be good for 50K intervals before breaking down as long as it's not getting too hot. I'm more concerned about the transmission filter, as I don't want little bits of fiber/paper from the filter circulating through my transmission.



I'll check my stick and see what it says. The 2001 trucks were "out" when my truck was picked up, and I got a good deal on the 2000 because it was "last year's model" even though I bought it early (February) in 2000. I'm thankful I got a HX turbocharger in mine!



Greg

 

[hammong]

I hate to double-post, but I checked my owners manual and dipstick at lunchtime, and my stick just says "ATF PLUS or CHRYSLER 7xxx", and the book says ATF +3. I'll stick with my Pennzoil ATF +3 for this change and see what the recommendation is next year when I get around to changing the transmission juice again.



As for recommended change intervals, Schedule A calls for 30K transmission fluid changes, and Schedule B calls for 15K intervals. I'm probably "in the middle" of the two, with some short drives in my routine, and NO heavy towing - so 25K should be a good interval to work with for my situation.



Greg