1996 Rodeo Auto Trans - Synthetic Fluid?

[lyleduncan]

I have a 1996 Rodeo, 4wd, autotrans w/85K miles, purchased at 75K miles. Planning to flush trans, wondering about the merits of synthetic fluid. Currently using Mobil 1 for engine, would prob use Mobil 1 sythetic trans fluid as well. Good idea? Can I do it myself or is the flushing process something that takes special equipment? Thanks! Lyle

[anthonyn]

I have read that synthetic AT fluid is not recommended for these transmissions cuz the extra slipperyness can cause problems. But, I know some have used them with no apparent problems.
Personally, I'm not gonna take the chance. Good'ol dexron III and a machine flush every year or two is more than enough. Flushing it yourself can get messy and you might not get all the old fluid out. I just pay the shop the 80 bucks or so and get it done right. Gets most of the fluid out, including the torque convertor.

[lyleduncan]

Originally Posted by anthonyn

I have read that synthetic AT fluid is not recommended for these transmissions cuz the extra slipperyness can cause problems. But, I know some have used them with no apparent problems.
Personally, I'm not gonna take the chance. Good'ol dexron III and a machine flush every year or two is more than enough. Flushing it yourself can get messy and you might not get all the old fluid out. I just pay the shop the 80 bucks or so and get it done right. Gets most of the fluid out, including the torque convertor.

Thanks for the tip Anthony. How odd that better lubrication, as in "extra slipperiness" would cause a problem!

[mwt]

I put all synthetics in my 95.5 when I got it and we have put about 20K on it in 10 months and everything is great.

Mike

[lyleduncan]

Originally Posted by mwt

I put all synthetics in my 95.5 when I got it and we have put about 20K on it in 10 months and everything is great.

Mike

Hi Mike,

Thanks for your feedback! Now I have one positive and one negative to base my decision on!!!

Best,
Lyle