ok, ive got a 99 chrysler minivan that has the dreaded 4 speed electronically controlled transmission, 41TE. this is the transmission that has given chrysler headaches for several years. i guess one of the issues was that they left an imprint on the dipstick for dexron usage, when the proper fluid was atf +3. even after all of the atf +3 stuff cleared up, this transmission was not a bastion of reliability. atf +4 is out now and is recommended for all chrysler vehicles and is factory fill in all chrysler vehicles-EXCEPT MINIVANS WITH 41TE TRANSMISSION 1999 AND OLDER-THATS ME.
now, i have had no transmission issues after 61K but the atf +4 fluid is allegedly superior in terms of temp, oxidation, longevity,etc and has been rumored to be synthetic-at $5.99 a qt it better be. the friction modification package, however, is rumored to be identical. obviously, even considering price, i have interest in possibly using this-especially if it can in any way extend the life of the 41TE ticking timebomb. now, the $99,000 answer is just exactly has changed in this transmission between 1999 and 2000 that it is used in one but not the other?????? i can find nothing. so, why would i not be able to use this. BTW i am waiting an answer from chrysler's crack customer service website and not holding my breath. anyone with knowledge on these transmissions or fluid and why 1999 was the magical cutoff year and only for minivans???
as an aside, i found a site listing a recall on this badboy for faulty seals on the fuel rail. i still have not gotten notice since it began in 2/02-surprise. i have had no problems and van-actually like it and it has actually been reliable. just missing a little peace of mind toting 2 kids around in a potential firebox.
now, i have had no transmission issues after 61K but the atf +4 fluid is allegedly superior in terms of temp, oxidation, longevity,etc and has been rumored to be synthetic-at $5.99 a qt it better be. the friction modification package, however, is rumored to be identical. obviously, even considering price, i have interest in possibly using this-especially if it can in any way extend the life of the 41TE ticking timebomb. now, the $99,000 answer is just exactly has changed in this transmission between 1999 and 2000 that it is used in one but not the other?????? i can find nothing. so, why would i not be able to use this. BTW i am waiting an answer from chrysler's crack customer service website and not holding my breath. anyone with knowledge on these transmissions or fluid and why 1999 was the magical cutoff year and only for minivans???
as an aside, i found a site listing a recall on this badboy for faulty seals on the fuel rail. i still have not gotten notice since it began in 2/02-surprise. i have had no problems and van-actually like it and it has actually been reliable. just missing a little peace of mind toting 2 kids around in a potential firebox.
