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Easy & Inexpensive Torqshift Upgrades

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Old May 2, 2009 | 12:38 PM
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Easy & Inexpensive Torqshift Upgrades

Hey Guys,

I have 30K miles on my F350 and will be doing the transmission & transfer case fluid change soon. Is there any recommended upgrades that are easy and inexpensive? I'm not willing to spend big money on labor that requires a 100% tear down the transmission or transfer case to install upgraded parts. However, if it's a simple install that yields improvements then I am all ears.

While I'm on the subject, is there a preferred transmission fluid? I'm thinking of using Amsoil ATF.

Thanks!
 
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Old May 2, 2009 | 01:19 PM
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Mercon sp or better fluid. If you want upgrades there is a improved pan filter in the 08-09 that is a direct replacement for our trucks. The factory filter (pan) is not designed to be replaced in the 03-07 torqshift trannys as it is a very coarse filter. The external should be changed though. Other upgrades are a larger pan. If you want to do a flush you will need to have equipment that can do a heated flush
 
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Old May 2, 2009 | 03:27 PM
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So the '08-'09 pan filter is better? Does it fit in the '03-'07 without changing pans? What is the improvement?
 
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Old May 2, 2009 | 07:12 PM
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Yeah, I thought that I would do the Mag-Hytec cover as part of this fluid change. I'll definitely do the 2008-2009 pan filter if it's a direct fit. I assume that it does have to be replaced with normal fluid changes due to its better (finer) filtering capabilities. As for the coarser filter, you have to wonder about the value of a filter that never has to be replaced.
 
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Old May 2, 2009 | 07:44 PM
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Hum... it appears that if you want to use the newer 2008-2009 pan filter, then you must also use the newer pan.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...n-updates.html
 
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Old May 2, 2009 | 07:59 PM
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Should be a direct fit but I also imagine the newer pan is needed....
 
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Old May 2, 2009 | 09:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Furian

While I'm on the subject, is there a preferred transmission fluid? I'm thinking of using Amsoil ATF.

Thanks!
The only fluid I know of that is approved for use in the Torqshift is Mercon SP. I'm not aware of any supplier other than Motorcraft that makes the spec fluid. If I'm wrong, I'm sure someone will correct me.
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 12:27 AM
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There aren't any other fluids approved by Ford. I've read allot stuff here and elsewhere on the subject. Most say it's not worth the chance of a different fluid hosing something up. So until I or you or anybody comes up with some facts to the contrary. As much as I don't want to I guess I'll have to stick with the SP. I use mostly Redline oil products and I believe they have a fluid they say is OK to use. As I'm sure Amsoil does. But I don't know for sure.
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 11:52 AM
  #9  
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Amsoil states that their ATF is a suitable substitute for Mercron and Mercron V. They do not list the Mercron SP on their website.

http://www.amsoil.com/storefront/atf.aspx

APPLICATIONS
AMSOIL AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF is recommended for transmissions, hydraulics, power steering and other applications requiring any of the following specifications:
• GM DEXRON® III-H
Ford MERCON® & MERCON V
• Chrysler ATF+4®
• Toyota Type T-III and T-IV
• Honda Z-1 (Not CVT)
• Diamond SP II & III (Mitsubishi/Hyundai/Kia)
• Mazda ATF-III, ATF-MV
• Subaru ATF
• Nissan Matic D, J & K
• Idemitsu K-17
• BMW LA2634
• LT 71141
• Audi G-052-025-A2 & G-052-162-A1
• Volvo 97340
• MB 236.1, 236.2, 236.5, 236.6, 236.7, 236.9 & 236.10
• JWS 3309
• NAG 1
• ETL-7045E, ETL-8072B & N402
• Voith 55.6335.XX (G607, G1363)
• ZF TE-ML 03D, 04D, 09, 14A, 14B, 14C, 16L, 17C
• Allison C-4, TES 389
*Not for use with CVT or Ford Type F applications.
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 12:24 PM
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Amsoil

This must have been what I saw. If they really do or don't I don't know or care. I just remembered seeing something about it. The link for the ATL (whatever that is) goes nowhere. Sorry for the unverified reference. I do apologize.
 

Last edited by pjwoolw; May 3, 2009 at 12:27 PM. Reason: Oops
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Old May 3, 2009 | 12:30 PM
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Originally Posted by pjwoolw
This must have been what I saw. If they really do or don't I don't know or care. I just remembered seeing something about it. The link for the ATL (whatever that is) goes nowhere. Sorry for the unverified reference. I do apologize.
The links works...
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 12:42 PM
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Must be one of those Apple Safari anomalies I just get a blank page. What does it say?
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 01:20 PM
  #13  
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Originally Posted by pjwoolw
Must be one of those Apple Safari anomalies I just get a blank page. What does it say?
<H1>AMSOIL Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

</H1>

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>Account ZoneOnline StoreAccount Information Other Links

</TD><TD vAlign=top>
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=640 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="25%"></TD><TD width="75%">Synthetic Universal Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Outstanding performance in domestic and import cars, trucks, SUVs and commercial vehicles.
See Pricing Information or Place an Order
Package sizes include:
1-Quart Bottle
1-Quart Bottles (case of 12)
1-Gallon Bottle
1-Gallon Bottle (case of 4)
2.5-Gallon Bottle
2.5-Gallon Bottles (case of 2)
30-Gallon Drum
55-Gallon Drum

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top colSpan=2>
Transmission Fluid Evacuation Service:
Bulletin From Filter Manufacturers Council
(16k PDF)

ATF and Transmission Filter Change Procedures (45k PDF)
AMSOIL Transmission fluid recommendations for Cars and Light Duty Trucks
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
AMSOIL Synthetic Universal Transmission Fluid (ATF) is engineered to outperform conventional automatic transmission fluids and exceed the performance requirements of most North American, European and Asian vehicles. This sophisticated formulation provides outstanding performance and protection in the severe operating conditions of today’s most advanced transmission designs. Automatic transmissions have become increasingly complex as vehicle manufacturers strive to improve efficiency while satisfying consumer demands. Smaller, smoother-shifting transmissions with longer fluid-life capabilities and heavier load capacities are now standard in modern transmission design. Traditional ATFs, however, are unable to meet these extreme requirements, and new fluids have emerged with each new advancement in transmission engineering. AMSOIL first introduced a synthetic automatic transmission fluid in 1980 and remains the leader in transmission fluid quality. AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF is formulated with the highest-quality synthetic fluids and additives. It exceeds the most stringent industry standards and is universally recommended for a wide range of transmissions. AMSOIL Synthetic ATF reduces confusion, misapplications and inventories. It eliminates the need for costly and suspect “one-treatment-covers-all” additives. The quality and performance of AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF is guaranteed.
Exceptional Hot- and Cold- Temperature Performance
Thermal Stability – Hot temperatures are no excuse for poor reliability. Naturally heat resistant and heavily fortified with anti-oxidants, AMSOIL ATF exceeds the most demanding oxidation requirements. AMSOIL ATF delivers outstanding protection against sludge and varnish deposits that clog narrow oil passages and contribute to clutch glazing. Transmissions can operate hotter and longer with AMSOIL ATF than with conventional fluids.
Cold-Temperature Fluidity – Cold, thick automatic transmission fluid lengthens shift times and reduces energy efficiency (fuel economy). AMSOIL Synthetic ATF is wax-free and delivers extraordinary cold-flow properties (< -60°F pour point). Shifting is more responsive, energy efficiency is improved and warm-up times are reduced.
OUTSTANDING WEAR PROTECTION
Varying speeds and loads causes torque multiplication and extreme stress on gears and bearings. To prevent wear damage consistent with low-quality fluid and ruptured fluid film, AMSOIL formulated Synthetic Universal ATF with high film strength (shear stability) and premium anti-wear/extreme-pressure additives (boundary film barrier). AMSOIL Synthetic ATF protects transmissions during severe-duty service.
FRICTION DURABILITY
Today’s transmissions are smaller and must withstand higher horsepower and torque while delivering smoother shifts, all with longer fluid life recommendations. AMSOIL Synthetic ATF is formulated with friction modifier additives that deliver outstanding clutch-holding capacity (static friction), torque-transfer ability (dynamic friction) and anti-shudder properties (slipping torqueconverter clutches).
EXTENDS FLUID SERVICE LIFE
Most drivers are unaware that transmissions commonly operate under severe service and require shorter fluid drain intervals. AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF is a long-life fluid capable of extended service intervals. It provides an extra margin of protection, especially when fluid change intervals are missed or during heavy use; even during abuse. Drivers can count on AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF to provide protection beyond conventional fluids.
APPLICATIONS
AMSOIL AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF is recommended for transmissions, hydraulics, power steering and other applications requiring any of the following specifications:
• GM DEXRON® III-H
• Ford MERCON® & MERCON V
• Chrysler ATF+4®
• Toyota Type T-III and T-IV
• Honda Z-1 (Not CVT)
• Diamond SP II & III (Mitsubishi/Hyundai/Kia)
• Mazda ATF-III, ATF-MV
• Subaru ATF
• Nissan Matic D, J & K
• Idemitsu K-17
• BMW LA2634
• LT 71141
• Audi G-052-025-A2 & G-052-162-A1
• Volvo 97340
• MB 236.1, 236.2, 236.5, 236.6, 236.7, 236.9 & 236.10
• JWS 3309
• NAG 1
• ETL-7045E, ETL-8072B & N402
• Voith 55.6335.XX (G607, G1363)
• ZF TE-ML 03D, 04D, 09, 14A, 14B, 14C, 16L, 17C
• Allison C-4, TES 389
*Not for use with CVT or Ford Type F applications.
SERVICE LIFE
Recommended for 50,000 miles in severe service* and 100,000 miles in normal service;* or per vehicle manufacturer-recommended intervals, whichever is longer.
*As defined by vehicle or transmission manufacturer
HEALTH & SAFETY
This product is not expected to cause health concerns when used for the intended application and according to the recommendations in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). MSDS's are available upon request at 715-392-7101 or on our website. Keep Out of Reach of Children. Don't pollute. Return used oil to collection centers.

<TABLE borderColor=#cccccc cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" align=center border=1><TBODY><TR><TD colSpan=2>
TYPICAL TECHNICAL PROPERTIES

</TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=2>
AMSOIL Synthetic Universal Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Kinematic Viscosity @ 100°C, cSt (ASTM D-445)
</TD><TD align=right>
7.6

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Kinematic Viscosity @ 40°C, cSt (ASTM D-445)
</TD><TD align=right>
38.9

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Viscosity Index (ASTM D-2270)
</TD><TD align=right>
168

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Flash Point °C (°F) (ASTM D-92)
</TD><TD align=right width=100>
234 (453)

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Pour Point °C (°F) (ASTM D-97)
</TD><TD align=right>
-53 (-63)

</TD></TR><TR><TD>FZG Load Stage Pass (ASTM D-5182)</TD><TD align=right>
12

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Four Ball Wear Test, Scar in mm; 40 kg, 75°C, 1200 rpm, 1 hr (ASTM D-4172B)
</TD><TD align=right>
0.41

</TD></TR><TR><TD>
Brookfield Viscosity @ -40°C, cP (ASTM D-2983
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 01:35 PM
  #14  
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Amsoil link

I meant the link from here with the reference link to ATL.
 
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Old May 3, 2009 | 01:45 PM
  #15  
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Originally Posted by Furian
Yeah, I thought that I would do the Mag-Hytec cover as part of this fluid change. I'll definitely do the 2008-2009 pan filter if it's a direct fit. I assume that it does have to be replaced with normal fluid changes due to its better (finer) filtering capabilities. As for the coarser filter, you have to wonder about the value of a filter that never has to be replaced.
I'm a Amsoil oil dealer and I won't use their ATF in the Ford trans. Their fluid is "recommended" only and not "approved" to take the place of Mercon SP 5.
I'm still looking for a deal on a Mag hytec trans pan but it seems $315 is as low is i can find. My Ford dealer does not recomended a trans flush as it can shock the system and cause scale debris to break loose creating problems. I asked for a discount on the Ford atf and got 15%- 20% off ($5.40qt).
 
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