norman52

The manual just specifies using Toyota brand transmission fluid but I want to do a switch to a synthetic type transmission fluid and I have no idea what to buy. The dealer was no help as he just said to use the Toyota fluid that he sells.
I have used Mobile 1 synthetic in all my cars with great success.
Is there a cross reference to a Dexron, Mercron or what ever is out there?
I got over 300K miles out of a Porsche 911 and a 275k out of a Corvette using Mobile 1 , both oil and transmission fluid (and gear lube) so I want what is best for my SC430

johnnyreno

WELL im suprised u got 300 ft in a porsche.

Pearlpower

iTrader: (2)

Norman,
Welcome aboard. I understand your concern as I shared the same many years ago but the Toyota trans fluid is very good stuff and that transmission will last much longer than 250k miles driven properly. The Toyota fluid is formulated for the transmission and using the incorrect fluid can have detrimental effects to the transmission including premature wear and leaking seals down the line. There have been a few horror stories posted over the years of using the wrong fluid in this transmission.

I use synthetic in the pumpkin and engine.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

yes, lexus/toyota tranny fluid are very good stuff, and on the other hand their tranny sensors are very sensitive to anything else. just stick with the type IV, it will go a long while

norman52

Thanks for the reply. I just want to put in the best that there is.
Trying to save a few bucks each year doesn't pay when the transmission is $3,000+
and the engine is three times that. Still cheap compared to my Porsche parts.

I did notice that Redline makes a Toyota Type T-IV equivalent

tfeni52355

Norman,
What fluid did you go with here? Did you use the Redline or go with the Toyota?

norman52

I put the RedLine in (2 Quarts). Using a vacuum pump to suck it out the dipstick tube instead of dropping the pan. Took 5 minutes so I did it when I changed the enging oil (Mobile 1). I think I will just do it every other oil change and call it $20 insurance.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

Mobil ATF 3309
Amsoil Universal ATF


They're also compatible with your transmission.

norman52

The Mobil is the same as the Toyota fluid. They make it for them. It just isn't a synthetic and that is what I was looking for.
i would have gone with Amsoil but I have to go find it while I can get Redline at my local Napa Store.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

Yup. Mobil makes it for Toyota. If you want amsoil, you can 'try' calling your local honda dealer. I know my local honda stock amsoil fluids.

norman52

I have never tried Amsoil as I have to go find it. I drive by 3 NAPA stores on my way home from work and they all have Redline. One regular auto parts store has Royal Purple. My Costco has Mobile 1 Synthetic oil as does WalMart.
I do my antifreeze and brake fluid once a year too. Never really had any problems (Knock on wood)

Lexmex

Amsoil I found here at a Carquest store, using the Amsoil ATF as we speak in my RX300.

norman52

On my drive home (40 mile commute) I don't think I go by a Carquest. If fact I don't even know of any. The one I did know about closed. I heard theya re pretty good. We have a couple of Auto Zones but they are out of my way.
So I just go to NAPA. Pay a little more put I get the correct part every time and it fits. Or Sewell Lexus in Dallas.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

Have you tried looking for a local Amsoil dealer?

http://www.amsoil.com/dealerlocatorresults/

norman52

I am sure they are around but with a 40 mile commute in Seattle traffic it really has to be worth it to venture out just for oil. RedLine or Royal Purple are top notch and I wouldn't save any money with Amsoil. if i see it on the shelf somewhere I might give it a try.

Now if I could just find tires locally cheaper than the Tire Rack! That would be worth a drive!