Hello all, new to this forum. Reading through some posts it seems to be very informative.I've read alot of posts concerning atf changes. Looking for some opinions.
98 Explorer XLT 5r55e tranny, 90,000 miles. Bought it used so I don't know about maintenance upkeep. Always noticed just before shifting down from O.D. it would run a little rough. Once it kicked down it would smooth right out. I've since got fluid changed at Jiffy Lube and I'm not too happy. I informed the Gentleman it specifically called out for Merc V. I was told no problem. So I assumed that's what I got. Well since then, a person in my carpool asked when it started riding rough(meaning the shift change above). He picked it out the first time he drove with me after the fluid change. He never noticed it before. It does seem a little rougher now. I also notice pulling the steep road outside my house it gets somewhat of a vibration while i'm into it pretty good. I never had that vibration before. Almost like driving over rumble strips but not quite that hard. Because of all this, I pulled the receipt out and found they used a Penzoil QS Multi Vehicle ATF. Is this supposed to be compatible? Does anyone feel the different fluid could be causing problems? Opinions please. I'm thinking about changing it myself right away just to make sure I have Merc V in it.

 

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you'd have to research the penzzoil website, but I'd be surprized if its suitable for Mercon V application.
In the past, the fast lube places have only stocked a Mercon/Dexron III equivalent to which they would add a 10 or 12 oz additive per change that supposedly would make the mix "equivalent" to Mercon V. I did that once in a pinch but had the system flushed by Ford 1 year later. I did not notice any problems during that year. Its tough to find non-dealer places that stock actual Mercon V and won't lie to you about what they're really putting in there.

 

Take it back and demand a refund, then get it flushed with the correct fluid before you get any tranny damage.

 

Have a '96, started to chatter on downshifts, had the dealer do the trans flush, costs was $105 about 7 months ago. I understand Ford has an additive that keeps the clutched from hardening,whwich prevents chatter, for that trans, long story short the trans shifts great.

 

Thanks for the opinions. I'm definately getting the fluid replaced with Merc V. Probably try the flush routine myself. That way I'll know for sure. Thanks again.

 

Don't forget to get the additive for the trans from the dealer, it does make a difference.