Fluid Recommendations
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Lead Driver
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,092
Likes: 145
From: San Diego, CA
Fluid Recommendations
I’m sure that there have been plenty of posts on this but I can’t find an answer for all of my questions so I’ll just ask one big one.<O
</O
I just bought my toy last fall. I’ve been meaning to change all my fluids so that I know what I’m running but haven’t gotten around to it. After this last weekend in the desert I think it’s about time.
<O</O
What is everybody’s recommendation for fluids and filters? I’m talking the whole shebang. Engine, Tranny (4R100), differentials (Dana 60 up front and Sterling 10.50 with limited slip in back), transfer case, cooling, power steering and brake. Even the windshield washer fluid if you feel like it.
<O</O
Currently I’m running Rotella T Synthetic 5/40 in the engine with a Motorcraft filter. I also have a Motorcraft fuel filter too. I also recently flushed my cooling system, replaced the hoses and filled it with Zerex G-05 Gold (50/50 with distilled water of course) and put in the billet thermostat housing and 203F thermostat while I was in there.
Please feel free to also mention anything to avoid as well.
<O</O
Keep in mind that my ’03 has 156,000 miles and I’m still on the original build of the tranny (knock on wood).
</OI just bought my toy last fall. I’ve been meaning to change all my fluids so that I know what I’m running but haven’t gotten around to it. After this last weekend in the desert I think it’s about time.
<O
</OWhat is everybody’s recommendation for fluids and filters? I’m talking the whole shebang. Engine, Tranny (4R100), differentials (Dana 60 up front and Sterling 10.50 with limited slip in back), transfer case, cooling, power steering and brake. Even the windshield washer fluid if you feel like it.
<O
</OCurrently I’m running Rotella T Synthetic 5/40 in the engine with a Motorcraft filter. I also have a Motorcraft fuel filter too. I also recently flushed my cooling system, replaced the hoses and filled it with Zerex G-05 Gold (50/50 with distilled water of course) and put in the billet thermostat housing and 203F thermostat while I was in there.
Please feel free to also mention anything to avoid as well.
<O
</OKeep in mind that my ’03 has 156,000 miles and I’m still on the original build of the tranny (knock on wood).
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,760
Likes: 27
From: Hampton, Maryland.
Well, I put the Mobil 1 synthetic Mercon V in the power steering about 10 days ago. The fluid I had didn't look that bad but the difference in effort of the steering wheel and how quiet the pump is now is amazing. If it does that good in the PS pump, I can only imaging it would be really good in the transmission itself. I think you can't go wrong with the Rotella oil. I use the conventional in 15W 40 and it works well according to my Blackstone report. I have been using the Napa gold motor oil filters with that. Thats all that I have changed so far. It sounds like you are on the right track. Others will chime in with more. Good luck.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 14,541
Likes: 2
From: Dallas-Ft. Worth
I did my PS about the same time, Jason!! It is much quieter and now that you mention it, it does seem to be easier to steer.
I did my tranny this Monday -- put in a TransGo shift kit and switched to Mobil1 syn ATF. The darn fluid cost more than the shift kit!! But worth it... I have all syn fluids now. Which is what I've always done on my vehicles.
On the oil, you'll be good on the syn Rotella & FL-1995. That's what I run. I get my fuel filters from Geno's Garage (site sponsor). They're the Racor (same as Motorcraft) and cost about $17. Other than that, you're in good shape.
My next change will be from the Gold to the Red ELC (and billet housing and 203* stat). I'll do that in the spring...
I did my tranny this Monday -- put in a TransGo shift kit and switched to Mobil1 syn ATF. The darn fluid cost more than the shift kit!! But worth it... I have all syn fluids now. Which is what I've always done on my vehicles.
On the oil, you'll be good on the syn Rotella & FL-1995. That's what I run. I get my fuel filters from Geno's Garage (site sponsor). They're the Racor (same as Motorcraft) and cost about $17. Other than that, you're in good shape.
My next change will be from the Gold to the Red ELC (and billet housing and 203* stat). I'll do that in the spring...
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,760
Likes: 27
From: Hampton, Maryland.
Yeah Joe, I read your write up about the tugger kit. I am a big fan of Mobil 1 in general. I have run it in my Mustang and my Acura and never had any issues. I have been tempted to use it instead of the Rotela, but my OA with Blackstone seemed good on the Rotela so I see no need to switch.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 14,541
Likes: 2
From: Dallas-Ft. Worth
Originally Posted by HKusp
Yeah Joe, I read your write up about the tugger kit. I am a big fan of Mobil 1 in general. I have run it in my Mustang and my Acura and never had any issues. I have been tempted to use it instead of the Rotela, but my OA with Blackstone seemed good on the Rotela so I see no need to switch.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,092
Likes: 145
From: San Diego, CA
Originally Posted by Izzy351
Where did you see Mobil1 Diesel oil? I don't think I've seen it in my travels. Is it the same price as the gasser oil? I used to run it in all my vehicles before, but $6/quart is a bit much when you're buying 15 of 'em. Basically makes for $100 OCs...
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Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,760
Likes: 27
From: Hampton, Maryland.
Originally Posted by Izzy351
Where did you see Mobil1 Diesel oil? I don't think I've seen it in my travels. Is it the same price as the gasser oil? I used to run it in all my vehicles before, but $6/quart is a bit much when you're buying 15 of 'em. Basically makes for $100 OCs...
I have been known to do that lately.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 14,541
Likes: 2
From: Dallas-Ft. Worth
With the Rotella Synthetic + Motorcraft oil filter you're looking at $85 per change...and that's from Wal-Mart before you buy the beer to change it in your driveway!
Jason --> thanks for the info. I'll look closer next time I'm in there...
Even the windshield washer fluid if you feel like it.