Dexron 6 in e53 3.0 transfer case
 

By all accounts, Dexron 6 is superior to Dexron 3 and I am wondering if it is a good idea to put this in my transfer case. Redline has d6 for 11.95 with free shipping for Prime members and I was thinking of doing this instead of the Mobil 1 synthetic ATF, which is only Dexron 3.

I did a search here and many other sites and can not find anyone that has done this. The logic to do so seems sound.

I see many member using Dexron 6 in the tranny, when it says to use Dexron 3 only. I don't think you can even get BMW Dexron any lower than 6.

My X5 is a 2001. Pre xdrive.

What year? The transfer case does NOT use ATF.

2001 E53 x5. I have found that Dexron 3 is the spec. The xdrive transfer cases use something else.

Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF isn't actually Dexron III, the label just says that it is suitable for transmissions that require that spec. It is a universal fluid. Dexron III is no longer licensed by GM, so nobody will have it. Redline D6 isn't actually Dexron VI, it is a universal fluid as well, designed for those who want to pay more but don't want the real fluid.

I'd use the Mobil 1. If you insist on using Redline, then the D4 is closer to the original spec. The D6 is thinner for better fuel economy, and I don't know why that would be a benefit in this application.

Thanks. I thought about using D6 since Dexron 6 has longer fluid life. Not that I would leave it in there for life or anything.

They are referring to the heat produced from clutch plates in an automatic transmission. Your transfer case has no such function, it is acting as a simple lubricant.

Thanks again. I searched and searched and nothing I found in any forum mentioned that. Then again, I am not really sure how a transfer case works either. I just order some Mobile 1 atf for 9.99 shipped.

I assume you have a green label under your tranny, If yes, it states "USE ONLY TEXACO ETL 8072 B".. If not google for SI B 24 01 98 Automatic Transmission

But we have so many aftermarket ATF out there......Choose wisely...

I use Red line D4 ATF (for my X - Automatic Trans Fluid)

Automatic transmission fluids:
Esso LT71141, Shell LA2634 & M-1375.4, Texaco ETL7045 & ETL8072B: D4 ATF

https://www.redlineoil.com/tech_article.aspx?id=2

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Question? Your X5 is not ALL wheel Drive (Xdrive)?


For my X5, I only use BMW specific fluid for my transfer case

For the transfer case fluid (For all wheel drive, XDrive), scan with GT1/DIS or BMW specific scanner.

VTG - Transfer Case - "Oil Wear" .... Then it's time to replace the transfer case fluid

Transfer Case Fluid - Kit (Fill & Drain Plugs with Washers) p/n 83 22 0 397 244
For all wheel drive only!

Good luck!

It is a transfer case, not a transmission.

I'm just trying to make sure I understand the Op inquiries.

I think I covered the fluid options for ATF and transfer case based from my experience

It's up to the Op to understand different input/ opinions