Anyone can benifit from the use of a synthetic lubricant. Especially low mileage, frequent trip drivers. Synthetics bear up better under the sheer torture short driving puts on organic oils. You may perform a "pan service" yourself, but this only gets about half of the tranny fluid out. While the pan is off, go ahead and replace the filter and get a new pan gasket too. Do it again in 25~35K miles and you will have mostly synthetic in the tranny then. It's okay to mix the stuff, as modern formulations of synthetic are compatible with organic fluids. I use Redline fluid rated for Dextron II replacement, and it's great stuff, IMO. Well worth the extra expense for better fuel economy, cooler running temps and driveline longevity. Personally, after buying a shop manual (Chilton's and/or Haynes) and collecting together a small kit of tools I keep in the truck, I have never, ever taken it to the dealership for something as trifling as this. You get the satisfaction of a job well done if you follow the service manual's directions *exactly*, and having a heavier wallet when it's all done. However, when against the wall about something you cannot figure out from the books, or if you do not have all of the tools - best to ask alot of questions, then see a professional shop if still stumped. A mechanic will often give you a better deal than the dealership and can warranty the work and parts a lot longer than you can if something goes wrong.
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12-30-2004, 12:50 AM
