c4-Type F or Mercron III

[NoCJ4CJ]

What kind of tranny oil are you guys running in your C-4. I've got conflicting information between Type F and Mercron III.

Thanks.

 

[gjrock]

I use any type of Mercon.I think they are up to Merc 5.I have been running it for 8 plus years.

 

[Gummi Bear]

The Type F fluid has a zinc additive that helps keep your C4's internals happy and healthy.

If you'll search for explanations by Bwonco Howie (the swami of the C4), he's explained the why's a time or two.

 

[Socal Tom]

Mercon 5 is a synthetic, probably want to stick with Mecon 3. If you have an original tranny, then stick with type f. If you've had it rebuilt then Mecon has better hear resistance. I ran mercon on my rebuild and it worked fine.
Tom

 

[Broncobowsher]

If it is rebuilt, ask your rebuilder what to use. A lot of the rebuild kits are updated to use mercon.

If it is all still original, then type F

 

[BwoncoHowie]

The Type F fluid has a zinc additive that helps keep your C4's internals happy and healthy.

If you'll search for explanations by Bwonco Howie (the swami of the C4), he's explained the why's a time or two.

The swami eh... I dont wear a turban on my head.

I'll post those remarks again.
My choice will continue to be type F for the C-4 as long as it remains available. Dexrons, CJ types and Mercons all have friction modifiers in different different capacities. Friction modifiers change shift characteristics to a smoother application of friction materials (ie. clutches and bands). Newer formulas containing friction modifiers will cause the transmission to have softer shifts but the chemical properties are made to withstand and remain stable in more severe temperature conditions. The newer formulas designed for electronic transmissions also have the absence of Zinc. Zinc being present in ATF is vital for longer gear, bushing, and bearing life. Type F fluid cannot take the heat like the newer formulas and will require changing more often, but the original formulation still contains Zinc. I am willing to make that choice for firmer shifts and longer life of the components that have constant metal to metal contact. I can compensate for some heat breakdown with the addition of a transmission auxiliary cooler.
There is also an ATF additive that contains Zinc in the formula along with other synthetic and petroleum properties that will extend the life of the fluid as well as protect the fluid from excessive heat. I have used this stuff since day 1 on my AOD. The original transmission now has 251,000 miles on it and is still working fine in my daily driver.
http://www.lifeautomotive.com/Products/ATFP4001.asp
With the addition of a transmission auxiliary cooler you can extend the life of your fluid and other components inside the transmission.
When it comes to choosing oil for your newly rebuilt C-4, you should go with what your rebuilder's warranty recommends. That being said, the previously mentioned is strictly my humble opinion. ~BH~

 

[NicksTrix]

there you have it.... the swami has spoken

 

[NoCJ4CJ]

Thanks for the info....since you guys seems to have this down, I have a curiosity question....what is the difference between the different Mercons?

 

[Bronchole]

The newer formulas designed for electronic transmissions also have the absence of Zinc.

Oooh swami, does this mean that the electronic transmissions don't like the zinc?

 

[BwoncoHowie]

Oooh swami, does this mean that the electronic transmissions don't like the zinc?

Sorry, I dont have an answer for that.

 

[BronCowie]

there you have it.... the swami has spoken

I think we all need to pitch in and buy Howie a turban... ;D

 

[bronco italiano]

Bronco Howie,
How much of the additive do you use in the AOD? Also which atf/brand do you use for a 1991 AOD? Mercron III?

 

[BwoncoHowie]

Bronco Howie,
How much of the additive do you use in the AOD? Also which atf/brand do you use for a 1991 AOD? Mercron III?

all the major brands are pretty much meet the same specs. If i have a choice probably what ever is on sale otherwise castrol, mobil, valvoline, chevron, or shell. I use 1 bottle of smart blend (red bottle) to treat an AOD.