Hello, there

I have a Dodge RAM Van (Cargo) 1996 3.9L Engine and I bought it when it had 60K miles on it. In past 7 years so far I have manage to rack up 92K miles on it .
I believe it is time to change Transmission Fluid but I am concern after my oil change bad experience in 2010. Where I decided to say yes to an Engine Flush recommended by the oil change mechanic and paid 60dollars for it. Only a day later my oil-pan gasket started to leak.
I had to flush the Engine oil 4 times to make the oil stop leaking. I was very worried the entire week.
I am afraid same thing may happen if get my transmission fluid changed even at another mechanic store. Because the problems are caused by the oil and oil flushed that are used by the companies they seem to help out the economy but they do not take into account if an individual and support such expenses.

I read about ATF-4 oil and Steve05RAM comment on never to use Dexon-II oil decided to join the forum
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/dodge-r...sion-help.html

So where should I get my Transmission oil changed and Should I even consider changing it. Because my VAN works fine. The previous owner was NASA so they changed it every 30K miles I am sure. (Use in Rocket Launch) And if I go to a mechanic for it how do I make sure the mechanic adds ATF-4 or ATF-3 oil They do not allow you to go in the working area because of the insurance laws.

 

ATF+4 is the real deal. the -4 isn't an option.

Check out the APPROVED link from Chrysler here ...
http://www.centerforqa.com/licensedatf4brands.html

Another other ATF+4 not on that list is a FRAUD and your tranny will not hold up.

At times, I get the local Chrysler dealer mailing for a tranny flush for $129.99+taxes+fees; this includes a new screen, new filter, new AFT+4 and new gasket. Fully price can nail you with $189+taxes+fees.

Do you have a PepBoys in town or nearby town? They should carry one of the official Mopar AFT+4 fluid and flush the tranny.

NOTE: do not get a tranny flush that will not drop the pan nor replace the filter!!!! This is snake oil marketing. Run away from anyplace that will offer that solution.

 

Sadly also be aware of places that say they do the filter change as well THEN show you that your filter is "fine" since the pressure output is "good" while still hooked to the flush machine. Because of that which was done on my car in 2003 I have never had another flush done on my vehicles. I would rather change the fluid and filter myself!

 

I have see a lot of problems with power flushes. I am like the rest of you guys. I rather change the filter and adjust the bands if needed. Same thing goes for the oil changer place's too.

 

Firstly you can take whatever product you want into a shop and ask them to use it, they should discount the price they quote for the product they use. I believe that the only way to get the fluid out is by dropping the pan with this model. On a side note I would check the rear diff and make sure there are no leaks coming from it!

I had both done @ 165,000 So get some quotes or wait for specials, it is not urgent to do but take advantage of a price special!

 

If the rear end is done, Chrysler has a TSB to use 75W90 synthetic with the friction modifier. RedLine 75W90 synthetic With the friction modifier is the ideal product to use. Last year while driving up through Georgia, we stopped in Summit Racing. I grabbed to bottles while there.