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JCL · #19 09-16-2011, 05:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jgood

I don't care what fluid is in it. I changed my Explorers trans fluid at 140k with Wolfs Head and every trans problem it had went away, and that thing is still running perfect, so I don't buy into the "clutch plated get used to a certain fluid" idea. If anything, you just need to use a fluid that meets the spec, so the friction properties are correct. Whether wolfs head meets the spec is debatable apparantly, but the shop said they'll warranty damages caused by the fluid, as it's specifically stated that it meets LT 71141. I'm not using Esso LT71141 because the flush machine needs 16 quarts, plus ~5 for top off. That nearly exceeds the price of the entire converter replacement.

I don't think it is debatable, Wolf's Head/Amalie don't claim that it meets the spec. They say it is 'suitable for use' for cars that require fluid with that spec. That is very different. The fact that they list the same fluid as meeting specs which contradict each other shows that they are selling a fluid that is the equivalent of an adjustable wrench, a 'fits all fits nothing' type of approach. Not saying it is a bad fluid, just that it is a unknown fluid that by definition can't meet contradictory specs.

The reason it matters with your transmission is due to the transmission design. Read about the lock up clutch change that requires a fluid with a specific friction characteristic. That is why ZF came up with that fluid spec, to solve a specific problem.

Now, if your shop is guaranteeing it will work, fine, go ahead. I would be a little worried that they think it meets the spec, however.

I do agree with you that clutch plates don't get used to a certain fluid. They do require a fluid with specific friction characteristics though. And I don't think that your Explorer transmission had the same issues as the ZF design in this respect.

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