Author Topic: ATF in the tranny? (Read 2983 times)

M42boy · « **on:** June 07, 2006, 01:36:51 PM »

Okay, so I've asked this question like 5 times and yet to see a response. Seems like I hear a lot of people saying they are running Redline MT90 or MTL in thier boxes, but I never hear about ATF.

When I pulled out the tranny I pressure washed it. When the grime was gone, I was able to find a bright orange label on it that specifically states "Use ATF Only" on it. So, I presume I'm supposed to follow the instructions and run ATF as it says. Is this right? Are people running MTL regardless of these instructions? What's the deal? :confused:

I assume any ATF will do (as long as it's Dextron III)? I've got a bunch of crappy ACE hardware brand ATF laying around, which I presume will work fine. After all, ATF is ATF, is it not? I mean, it's all synthetic.

m42 fan · « **Reply #1 on:** June 07, 2006, 03:50:10 PM »

Yes, use ATF. Regular Dexron III may be OK, but iirc something like Redline D4 is what's recommended.

Brian

Eurospec · « **Reply #2 on:** June 07, 2006, 07:38:55 PM »

Noticed the label on my tranny as well after I had ordered MTL. Wondering if I should replace it with D4.

M42boy · « **Reply #3 on:** June 07, 2006, 09:59:18 PM »

I think my mechanic buddy filled mine with tranny fluid already as he was the one who had to reinstal the stock clutch and starter. So, I wonder if I should drain and run some cheap ATF... then drain again after some miles and run the D4?

Don't think I'm gonna be able to find Redline D4 on this sort of short notice anyways.

mrjezza · « **Reply #4 on:** June 07, 2006, 11:02:03 PM »

I'm no expert but I wouldn't think it would matter that much considering we run Castrol GTX in our 1982 E28 528i. 3.5L swap from an 1988 535i, with the original 528i gearbox and its still running strong.

m42 fan · « **Reply #5 on:** June 08, 2006, 11:04:56 AM »

The problem is that *some* E30's came with the transmission set up to use regular manual transmission gear oil, while *others* require ATF. Problem is, the only way to tell which one you've got (that I know of) is to get underneath the car and look at the sticker on your tranny.

Brian

asubimmer · « **Reply #6 on:** June 08, 2006, 01:21:54 PM »

I use mt-90 in mine. I was told to use it, NOT mtl from a reputable shop in gboro.