A343F, what fluid are you running? (1 Viewer)

[Tacoma4life]

I know the A343F calls for Dextron II fluid, but all the new fluids are types that superceed Dextron II. So I'm curious what brand are you running and what are you impressions?

I ask because I used Valvoline Maxlife Dex/Merc in my A340E tranny in my 2002 Tacoma with excellent results. Now I want to use it on our 1997 Cruiser . I posted the specs below, what do you think?

This is from the Valvoline website-
Overview

MaxLife DEX/MERC ATF contains a blend of superior base oils and a unique additive package to help extend the life of transmissions with over 75,000 miles. It is formulated to maximize transmission performance, reduce transmission wear, and improve and maintain smooth shifting longer than conventional fluids. MaxLife DEX/MERC ATF is compatible with new and rebuilt transmissions and will not void new car warranties.

Recommended for use where DEXRON, DEXRON II, III and VI, Toyota T-IV and WS, MERCON®, MERCON® SP and LV, Allison TES 295 and 389, Nissan Matic-D, Matic-J and Matic-K, Honda Z-1 (except CVT), Mercedes NAG-1, Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III and many others are required.

Specs for Maxlife DEX/MERC ATF


Recommended for use where the following fluids are specified:
Ford MERCON®, MERCON® V, MERCON® SP and LV
GM DEXRON, DEXRON II, III and VI
Toyota and Lexus Type T, T-III, T-IV and WS
Allison TES 295 and 389
Nissan Matic-D, Matic-J and Matic-K
Honda and Acura ATF Z-1 (except CVT)
Mercedes NAG-1
Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III
Kia SP-II and SP-III

 

[packetstormin]

I run the royal purple MAX ATF in mine and have no problems then again I do have the bus tranny.

 

[js93cruiser]

i only run toyota atf...my tranny feels like a cvt

 

[93yotasr5]

i run just the good ol dexII. seems to be fine with 272,000 miles.

 

[psfpilot]

Mobil1 DexIII compatible fluid in one; Valvoline Dex VI fluid in the other because these fluids should by definition be superior to any Group II ATF. Looking at Mobil Oil's website, their (non synthetic) Dex VI fluid actually has better flow at low temps than their synthetic DexIII compatible fluid.

 

[snowrider73]

Valvoline max life, Lucas Oil stabilizer. Fluid is the same color as it was 30,000 miles ago. I do have a quick inquiry that someone may be able to help with. At cold outside temps, my tranny won't shift into overdrive until she warms up. Is my overdrive relay bad?

 

[86tuning]

Valvoline max life, Lucas Oil stabilizer. Fluid is the same color as it was 30,000 miles ago. I do have a quick inquiry that someone may be able to help with. At cold outside temps, my tranny won't shift into overdrive until she warms up. Is my overdrive relay bad?

That's normal for all Toyotas. They don't go into high gear until they are at operating temperature.

 

[Tacoma4life]

Well I did a fluid swap with 14 quarts of Maxlife Dex/Merc. The old fluid wasn't too bad, but on the first drive I noticed the tranny already shifting smoother. I got it up to full operating temp to check the level and it was good, however what I noticed was how perfectly clean the fluid was. The fluid exchange/swap procedure really is quite effective for getting most of the old fluid out. I happy with the results.