Synth ATF, Fuel Savings??

[pitzel]

Ok, so I have a 4T60 that in the future I will be changing the ATF on. The 4T60 is frequently operated below freezing temperatures, and behaves terribly when the temperatures get down to -40C until it is nice and warmed up. The manual specifies Dexron IIE, but I will be using modern-spec Dexron III fluid.

Are there any quantitative studies, or even credible marketing claims with respect to the use of synthetic ATF, ie: Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF, SuperTech Synthetic ATF, or Castrol Synthetic ATF and any potential fuel savings?

The cost premium for using synthetic is quite high in this instance, so any comments would be appreciated.

 

[TomJones76]

If the readings I've done on motor oil fuel efficiencies apply to ATF, you will *never* make back the cost of synthetic ATF over conventional ATF based on fuel savings alone.
You *MAY* make back the cost if you
A) run long intervals AND/or
B) save on maintenance on your automatic transmission.
You basically gave us clues your current fluid isn't working for you in your extremely cold climate. In this case, "B" may apply.

 

[nascarnation]

-40 (C&F are the same at that point) is REALLY cold.

I'm sure Mobil 1 ATF, Allison TranSynd, or Castrol Transmax Z would be helpful.

In Alaska the Army uses Emgard 0W20 from Henkel.

 

[oilboy123]

I would say with the cold you get up their that you would be getting less wear with a good synthetic.
If you notice that it behaves badly, then you are not doing it any favers running a non syn trans fluid.

 

[salesrep]

There has been documentaion of fuel savings with syn atf albeit minute and nearly impossible to really document unless you have large numbers. I sure have to agree with the others as far as running syn or semi syn in this cold of conditions from a wear and performance standpoint. It is kind of the same old story. A few extra bucks to protect the machine vs. the possibilty of future repairs etc.

 

[pitzel]

Whats the pour point of the Schaeffers Dexron III ATF? Mobil 1 advertises a -54C pour point with their product, and I am eagerly awaiting some of the new H-spec Dexron III formulations to see what they will spec.

 

[salesrep]

-51
http://www.schaefferoil.com/datapdf/204SAT.pdf

 

[unDummy]

I think that a pour point comparison should not be used. Take a look at the cP @ -40c of various ATFs.

I'd use a $ynthetic. Mobil 1, Castrol, Amsoil, Redline, Neo, Torco......make excellent ATFs.

If budget is an i$$ue. Use a blend or a multivehicle ATF. Blend choices are the Motorcraft/Conoco/Aamco MerconV ATFs, and the multivehicle ATF(Schaeffers, Pennzoil, QuakerState, Mobil,....).
Other choices are to track down any DexronIII-H or Mercon-V fluids with their improved cold performance. This will allow you to shop on price.
Any of the above will perform better than your used old spec DexronIII.

I would expect minor MPG improvements because of the better cold flow of the synthetic especially if the fluid isn't warmed up or takes time to reach op temp.

And, change the filter. If there are electronic controls, check/clean/lube all transmission connections including vehicle grounds and both battery posts.

A fluid heater might also be a good choice if car is not garaged.