21 Ram Rebel transfer case fluid recommendations

[MuzzleFlash40]

Hey all,

I have a 21 Ram Rebel with the BW 48-12 transfer case. Which does not have the 4-Auto option.

The “recommended” Shell Spirax is kinda hard to find in non-bulk form. From what I’m reading is that BW-44 fluid can be used?

Seeing what y'all think. Thanks!

 

[The Critic]

I believe Shell Spirax S2 ATF A389 is an Allison TES-389 approved ATF:
https://shop.sclubricants.com/pub/media/pds/shell/Shell-Spirax-S2-ATF-A389-datasheet.pdf

I suspect that any full synthetic, higher viscosity Dexron-III(H) type fluid will work, but it'll depend on your comfort level. Valvoline does make this product for transfer case applications calling for Dexron:

https://shop.valvolineglobal.com/pr...OMnAddlIpDe98QqZfCh312osX2FXbxG5eGL&Size=1+QT

 

[MuzzleFlash40]

Blauparts has a little section on their website saying that the Ravenol fluid can be used for both transfer cases. Wonder why FCA has such an odd fluid spec’d?

 

[Devo242]

Mopar #68089195AA is stated to fit, but at the cost of $50/quart:
https://store.mopar.com/oem-parts/mopar-transfer-case-lubricant-68089195aa

Redline also claims their MT-LV fluid has compatibility with BW 48 TC's and does so at half the price of Mopar:
https://www.redlineoil.com/mt-lv-70w75w

 

[MuzzleFlash40]

I believe Shell Spirax S2 ATF A389 is an Allison TES-389 approved ATF:
https://shop.sclubricants.com/pub/media/pds/shell/Shell-Spirax-S2-ATF-A389-datasheet.pdf

I suspect that any full synthetic, higher viscosity Dexron-III(H) type fluid will work, but it'll depend on your comfort level. Valvoline does make this product for transfer case applications calling for Dexron:

https://shop.valvolineglobal.com/pr...OMnAddlIpDe98QqZfCh312osX2FXbxG5eGL&Size=1+QT

But it does look like you’re spot on with any full synthetic working. There are a couple cross reference websites that pull up Dex-III fluids for the shell spirax.

So it would be safe to assume Amsoil full synthetic ATF would most definitely be an upgrade over the OE fluid?

 

[MuzzleFlash40]

Mopar #68089195AA is stated to fit, but at the cost of $50/quart:
https://store.mopar.com/oem-parts/mopar-transfer-case-lubricant-68089195aa

Redline also claims their MT-LV fluid has compatibility with BW 48 TC's and does so at half the price of Mopar:
https://www.redlineoil.com/mt-lv-70w75w

Thanks for that info. Looks like Ravenol has that Mopar number listed in its specs sheet for fluids it can replace.

 

[MuzzleFlash40]

I decided on the Amsoil ATF. Thanks for everyone’s help!

 

[kitchbow]

I've run valvoline maxlife atf. In my ram transfer case since 50k ..... at 118,000 and I've used the 4x4 a bit since then...... I see now valvoline has a TRANSFER CASE fluid ......

 

[pb379]

I see now valvoline has a TRANSFER CASE fluid ......

They do
I just put it in my RAM 1500 BW 44-44 TC
Hopefully it works well.

 

[ctechbob]

I've run valvoline maxlife atf. In my ram transfer case since 50k ..... at 118,000 and I've used the 4x4 a bit since then...... I see now valvoline has a TRANSFER CASE fluid ......

That's what I'm planning on putting in my Powerboost TC as well. Trying to keep it simple.

 

[meep]

Unless it has some particular partial-engagement modes, transfer cases tend to be some of the least picky components for fluid type.

 

[ctechbob]

Finally got around to dumping the factory fill out of the TC today. Replaced with around 2qts of Maxlife. Little bit of teflon goo on the plug threads and everything is back together. Drained fluid had a bit of a dirty tinge to it, but I didn't look super close.

Only thing I haven't changed on the truck now is the front diff. I'd be shocked if there was 5 miles on it. I'll change it when I do the rear end again around 45k or so.

 

[Snagglefoot]

Finally got around to dumping the factory fill out of the TC today. Replaced with around 2qts of Maxlife. Little bit of teflon goo on the plug threads and everything is back together. Drained fluid had a bit of a dirty tinge to it, but I didn't look super close.

Only thing I haven't changed on the truck now is the front diff. I'd be shocked if there was 5 miles on it. I'll change it when I do the rear end again around 45k or so.

I don't know about Rams but on some four wheel drive systems the front diff turns all the time, but in a non loaded mode. To test it, tie a string tightly around the front drive shaft, then back down your driveway in two wheel drive. If the string is wound up, your front diff turns.

 

[ctechbob]

I don't know about Rams but on some four wheel drive systems the front diff turns all the time, but in a non loaded mode. To test it, tie a string tightly around the front drive shaft, then back down your driveway in two wheel drive. If the string is wound up, your front diff turns.

It might turn a little from drag in the system, but it isn't engaged in any way when not commanded. I checked that by marking the CV's and then rolling the truck (nothing moved). Plus when you're laying up under it you can spin the driveshaft by hand.

The automatic versions of Fords 4WD do spin all the time, but that's not an option mine has.