Approved Transfer Case fluids ?

[chefwong]

Can't seem to find the darn specs on the transfer case fluid for a '03 automatic. Is it the same fluid as what the tranny calls for - Esso 71141

[the head]

why are you changing the transfercase fluid?

[chefwong]

I've decided to keep the X past the 4 years.
Springtime summer tars are going on and I usually do a Oil change as well.

Last season I did the other fluids - tranny, diffys and it just got it's coolant and brake flush. So the last remainder fluid for now is transfer case......

[ThrasherFan]

Did you drop the tranny pan and replace filter as well? Also any tips/tricks for the tranny and diff fluid replacements and what fluids did you replace these with.

Thanks in advance for your comments. Thinking of doing these myself as well.

[chefwong]

No Panny drop. I will probably do after I put on another 30K.
I believe the tranny gasket is reusable so no muss or fuss there.

I used the Esso 71141 for my auto tranny. Under the VW label equivalent - it is part #G 052 162 A2

[X5 in AK]

I bought a filter kit for the auto tranny from Bavarian Autosport, it included the filter, a new gasket AND as an unexpected bonus, two brand new drain/fill plugs with gaskets. Very handy.

There are good articles in the articles forum about changing diffy and tranny fluid.

And the reason that some people want to change transfer case fluid is because fluids need to be changed, despite the crap that BMW is trying to feed everybody about 'lifetime fill' fluids.

[bjo]

Chefwong, what fluid did you end up using? I plan on changing my transfer case fluid soon and I was wondering if I should just go ahead and use Mobil1 synth ATF?

[chefwong]

That's a easy choice that's available locally.
I ended up using Amsoil ATF.

Drop me a PM if you may want Amsoil fluids...I've got a wholesale price discount.

[bjo]

chef thanks, but I already picked up some Mobil1 ATF. I called my local BMW dealer parts guy and asked about the transfer case fluid. He is a friend of mine and he looked it up for me. He says any Dexron III ATF will be fine.

[chefwong]

BTW, 1 bottle will cover you for the tc.
If you're doing the tranny fluid, just a drain bolt dump and refill, 4-5 bottles.

Good luck !