Synthetic tranny fluid?

[otis24]

I have a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan (3.8 V6). I plan to tow a popup camper with this during the summer and fall months. The GVW on the camper I am thinking about is 2200 lbs.
Will switching to synthetic transmission fluid make a difference? My transmission calls for Mopar ATF +4. What synthetic fluids fit the specs for my transmission and which ones are recommended here (if any)?

 

[unDummy]

When towing, I'd recommend additional ATF cooling.

Also, additional filtration, could be a worthy upgrade. A 1 or 2-quart filter will also increase the fluid capacity which will help with cooling and fluid longevity.

Amsoil/Mobil1/Pennzoil have their multivehicle/universal ATFs.
If you upgrade the cooling or filtration, you could just stick with the ATF+4.

 

[Ray H]

ATF+4 is already a blend of Group II and Group III base oils. The real kicker are the specific friction modifiers used to keep these transmissions' clutch facings from going south prematurely. But, the choice to substitute is up to you.

 

[Burbanite]

I switched from GM Dexron III(Non-Syn)to Redline D4-ATF Full Synthetic in my 4L80E transmission and found it to shift better and run cooler. My truck also has a transmission cooler, but I think the syn would still make your transmission run cooler and offer better protection although whether it is worth the price difference is something you have to decide.

 

[otis24]

I did add a transmission cooler last year in hopes of extending transmission life.

 

[The Critic]

If you already have a cooler, leave it alone. Just change the fluid and filter (and adjust the bands too I think on DC transmissions) every 20-30K. Given the high quality of the OEM ATF+4 fluid, I personally think more frequent changes would be more beneficial than a longer drain with a syn ATF under those conditions.

 

[Bernard Feltzer]

There are no bands to adjust in 4 speed DCX transmission.
Change transmission fluid and filter every 25,000 to 30,000 miles with ATF+4.
What to watch for the cheap radiators that go bad, then transmission gets filled with antifreeze.

 

[acewiza]

ATF+4 "is" synthetic, as Ray alludes to. Follow the instructions on your dipstick and owner's manual. You would be ill-advised to use anything else.

 

[olefam]

I think the ATF+4 is pretty good fluid. The transmission cooler is (almost) always a good idea.
Best wishes.
Glen