transmission fluid

[Ken Heyman]

I just brought my transmission fluid up to the specified level. I know our manuals caution about using "same type fluid" for compatability. West Marine sold me the "Dextron lll claiming it replaces the spec. in my 1988 manual. I believe it was Dextron ll that was called for.  Am I OK or should I drain and refill?

Thanks in advance,

Ken

[Stu Jackson]

Ken

You are OK, III replaced II which replaced I.  The "don't mix and match" basically referred to Dexron (any  type) and ATF (the Ford-type) transmission fluid.

[Ron Hill]

Ken : Stu is correct.  Just don't put synthetic Dextron III in an old transmission that hasn't been using synthetic fluid - you may create leaks!.  You can even use the Dextron III from the auto stores "for older transmissions".  It's MUCH cheaper at the auto parts stores!! 

[Ken Heyman]

Thanks guys,

Ron wrote : "Just don't put synthetic Dextron III in an old transmission that hasn't been using synthetic fluid". My boat is an 88. Any chance that a negligent PO may not have changed fluid and the boat has  synthetic fluid? Obviously, it's easy enough to purge all and refill but I was just curious.

Ken

[Footloose]

Ken

I will give you my experience.  When I drained my transmission last year, after just purchasing the boat, I would say that it had about half of what it should and was very black.  My two cents says drain and refill.  This year it is much smoother.