I bought a used 2005 Dodge Ram about a month ago. Is there any way to determine the condition of the transmission fluid. I know that ATF+4 does not really change colour as it wears unlike other fluids. The truck shifts well. I purchased 2 5L jugs of Mobil Super ATF+4 and can change the fluid any time. I just don't really want to change it if it will be a waste right now. Any ideas?
Condition of ATF+4
- Thread starter gricker27
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how many miles on transmission fluid
If you have a diesel (like my '06 with the 48RE) or you have unknown history (possibly heavy towing, like my '06), then changing the ATF would be a good idea-I had the dealer do mine because there was a recall on a pressure regulator which helps with shift quality, and had them flush it while they had it (saved a little on fluid because the recall included some)-if you have the lighter duty 545RE maybe someone else will chime in-how many miles on it, any maintenance history?
How many miles? If in doubt I would change it. Just an FYI. There is 2 oil filters in the trans as well. Watch out for aftermarket return filter (that's the canister one) It has a back flow valve in it. The B/F valve prevents the T/C from draining fluid out. If this happens the result will be delayed shift to gear when cold. Personally I am using WIX now and Mopar in the past on my 03 1500 with no problems.
If I bought a used truck I would change out every fluid on the truck. regardless of condition.
If I bought a used truck I would change out every fluid on the truck. regardless of condition.
Also, I checked on having the ATF tested, I was told that not enough people send in ATF+4 for them to have a baseline on it (so it would cost twice as much). Possibly Blackstone could do it?
There are 124,000 kms on the truck. 5.7L, and has no maintenance history, but is in great condition.
Originally Posted By: gricker27
I bought a used 2005 Dodge Ram about a month ago. Is there any way to determine the condition of the transmission fluid. I know that ATF+4 does not really change colour as it wears unlike other fluids. The truck shifts well. I purchased 2 5L jugs of Mobil Super ATF+4 and can change the fluid any time. I just don't really want to change it if it will be a waste right now. Any ideas?
You should just change it out...simple piece of mind since you have the fluid already and you are capable of performing the service. ATF+4 CERTAINLY does change color...it will turn BROWN...the problem is that like motor oil, you cannot judge ATF+4 fluid by its color as it just "happens" at a certain point.
Here is a direct quote that Chrysler uses from its FSMs:
Quote:
FLUID
DESCRIPTION
The recommended fluid for the power steering sys- tem is Mopar ATF +4.
Mopar ATF+4, when new is red in color. The ATF+4 is dyed red so it can be identified from other fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or anti- freeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid condition, As the vehicle is driven, the ATF+4 will begin to look darker in color and may eventually become brown. THIS IS NORMAL. ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid change.
I bought a used 2005 Dodge Ram about a month ago. Is there any way to determine the condition of the transmission fluid. I know that ATF+4 does not really change colour as it wears unlike other fluids. The truck shifts well. I purchased 2 5L jugs of Mobil Super ATF+4 and can change the fluid any time. I just don't really want to change it if it will be a waste right now. Any ideas?
You should just change it out...simple piece of mind since you have the fluid already and you are capable of performing the service. ATF+4 CERTAINLY does change color...it will turn BROWN...the problem is that like motor oil, you cannot judge ATF+4 fluid by its color as it just "happens" at a certain point.
Here is a direct quote that Chrysler uses from its FSMs:
Quote:
FLUID
DESCRIPTION
The recommended fluid for the power steering sys- tem is Mopar ATF +4.
Mopar ATF+4, when new is red in color. The ATF+4 is dyed red so it can be identified from other fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or anti- freeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid condition, As the vehicle is driven, the ATF+4 will begin to look darker in color and may eventually become brown. THIS IS NORMAL. ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid change.
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Probably due for a change, especially since it is a truck. ATF+4 needs to be changed at 60k (or sooner?) if the truck is used for severe service. There's no way for you to tell if the previous owner operated under the severe service criteria.
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