How much trans fluid needed for pan drop?

[JasonW]

Hi, guys. My wife has a 2000 4.7L 4x4. I am going to do the trans fluid and filter, but her owner's manual only states the total capacity of the trans. Does anyone know how many quarts I will lose with just dropping the pan and pulling the filter? TIA

[sgbofav]

Eight quart or 2 gallons of ATF+4 or an equivalent ATF will be plenty and two tranny filters (1 screw-in, and one flat filter).


Bill,

[JasonW]

Thanks a lot, Bill. So any reason I should put in the +4, rather than the +3 that the manual recommends?

[sgbofav]

Thanks a lot, Bill. So any reason I should put in the +4, rather than the +3 that the manual recommends?

I just checked my 2000 Dakota manual, specifically the transmission section and noticed they recommended ATF+3 for the 46re (5.9 engine) and 42re (3.9 engine) but there was no specific mention of ATF+4 for the 4.7's transmission (45rfe or 545rfe) . Last time I had my tranny serviced by Dodge they told me the 45rfe calls for ATF+4 not +3 .

The next time I service my trannies, I'm switching to Amsoil's Universal ATF that is ATF+4 compatible.

[JasonW]

Thanks again, Bill. I guess there'd be no harm in mixing what is in there now (I'm guessing +3) and +4, right?

Also, I called and talked to AutoZone to get a price, and they said there's 2 different filter/gasket kits. 1 for a 15-bolt pan, and a different one. Have you heard of this? My wife is unfortunately out shopping right now, so I can't check whether her pan has 15 bolts.

Just as a side note, I called jackasses at Murray's, and the guy told me there's only 1 kit out there for all 2000 Durangos, regardless of the engine. :rolleyes: He also quoted me $12.99, as opposed to AutoZone's $24.99.

[sgbofav]

When I ordered filters from Dodge, the cost was close to seventy dollars for both filters and the RTV "gasket maker" they sell.

Regarding ATF +3 and +4 compatibility, trannies and transfer cases that call for ATF+3 can use ATF+4. ATF+4 can be used for topping of where +3 is used. Per Dodge, ATF +3 can not be used for replacement and or top-off fluid in equipment calling for ATF+4 .

Bill,

[JasonW]

Thanks again, Bill. I just got some Aamco ATF +3 from AutoZone. I double-checked my wife's manual, and it does call for +3, and it makes no mention of +4. Also, I just got replacement filters and gasket RTV at AutoZone. It cost me $24.95 for both filters, and about $3 for the RTV (same RTV as Chrysler uses). Looks like you paid a little too much. ;)

Thanks again for the help.

[dadshred]

Jason,

The AMSOIL guy is refering to the Dodge TSB dated June 29, 2001. I have pasted the meat of the TSB for you reference.

Shred


NOTE :THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO ALL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CHRYSLER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS EXCEPT 1999 AND EARLIER MINIVANS.

DISCUSSION:

A new transmission fluid (ATF+4(R) - Type 9602) has been developed and is being used as factory fill for all vehicles with Chrysler automatic transmissions. Until now, vehicles originally filled with ATF+2 or ATF+3 were to be serviced with ATF+3. Effective immediately, it is recommended that all vehicles with Chrysler automatic transmissions except for 1999 and earlier minivans be serviced with ATF+4(R). ATF+3 should continue to be used for 1999 and earlier minivans because of the potential for torque converter shudder during break in. For all other applications the ATF+4(R) fluid offers significant benefits as outlined below.

NOTE :ATF+4(R) MUST ALWAYS BE USED IN VEHICLES THAT WERE ORIGINALLY FILLED WITH ATF+4(R).

NOTE :SERVICE INTERVALS DO NOT CHANGE. THE SERVICE INTERVAL CURRENTLY IN EFFECT FOR A GIVEN VEHICLE SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE FOLLOWED.

NOTE :ATF+4(R) IS COMPATIBLE WITH ATF+3 AND CAN BE USED TO TOP OFF VEHICLES THAT CURRENTLY HAVE ATF+2 OR ATF+3. DO NOT USE ATF+2 OR ATF+3 TO TOP OFF VEHICLES THAT HAVE ATF+4(R) FLUID.

BENEFITS

^ Better anti-wear properties

^ Improved rust/corrosion prevention

^ Controls oxidation

^ Eliminates deposits

^ Controls friction

^ Retains anti-foaming properties

^ Superior properties for low temperature operation


FLUID COLOR

Mopar ATF+4(R) is a World Class Fluid having exceptional durability. However, the red dye used in ATF+4°R is not permanent; as the fluid ages it may become darker or appear brown in color. ATF+4(R) also has a unique odor that may change with age. With ATF+4(R) fluid, color and odor are no longer indicators of fluid condition and do not support a fluid change.

Shred