Transmission Fluid

07tundra · 05-24-2013, 09:09 AM

I know whats recommended just wondering if anyone is using anything different that is better with success? As I am planning on doing a fluid+filter change. Anything else i should do while i'm in there? This is 6 AT

enrita · 05-24-2013, 09:13 AM

Use the OEM one.

i have Redline D6 ATF and no issues.

DUI Elite · 05-24-2013, 09:30 AM

I'm considering using the Redline fluid instead of the OEM trans fluid too. Is it approved by BMW?

busky2k · 05-24-2013, 11:27 AM

There is no official substitute for the OEM fluid. It is called ZF Lifeguard 6 or Shell M-1375.4. Unfortunately ZF do not license out the formulation to any 3rd parties. However its worth buying the fluid from The CTSC as it appears reasonably priced!

Personally I'm sure Redline D6 or Amsoil ATL should work but there is not enough long term evidence to say it is 100% safe.

enrita · 05-24-2013, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by busky2k

There is no official substitute for the OEM fluid. It is called ZF Lifeguard 6 or Shell M-1375.4. Unfortunately ZF do not license out the formulation to any 3rd parties. However its worth buying the fluid from The CTSC as it appears reasonably priced!

Personally I'm sure Redline D6 or Amsoil ATL should work but there is not enough long term evidence to say it is 100% safe.

i have had it in my trans for about 30K km .

07tundra · 05-24-2013, 12:35 PM

Ctsc?

busky2k · 05-24-2013, 12:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by enrita

i have had it in my trans for about 30K km .

Anything to report so far? Did you do a full flush? D6 is tempting to try since its about 1/3rd the cost of the ZF stuff. Unfortunately these ZF boxes cost a bomb to replace so I'd want to gather a bit more experience.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 07tundra

ctsc?

CTSC: http://www.thectsc.com/index.php?p=p...=187&parent=43
This is the basic kit you'd need.

enrita · 05-24-2013, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by busky2k

Anything to report so far? Did you do a full flush? D6 is tempting to try since its about 1/3rd the cost of the ZF stuff. Unfortunately these ZF boxes cost a bomb to replace so I'd want to gather a bit more experience.

CTSC: http://www.thectsc.com/index.php?p=p...=187&parent=43
This is the basic kit you'd need.

i put it in after the Level 10 trans upgrade. no issues so far

BMWM.D. · 05-24-2013, 01:02 PM

To me, it just isn't worth the risk by trying to save a few bucks on the fluid. I also don't like the idea of mixing 2 different oils in the transmission, which is sure to happen if you just drop the pan.

When I replace the pan/filter on these cars, I think it usually takes 4-5 liters of fluid. The transmission, Mechatronics, converter, cooler and lines hold quite a bit more, though.

07tundra · 05-24-2013, 01:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by enrita

Use the OEM one.

i have Redline D6 ATF and no issues.

Why do u say to use oem? Have not seen anydifference with the redline!

07tundra · 05-24-2013, 02:11 PM

Thanks guys I will order this should the sleeve that is prone for leaks while I'm at it. IT'S not leaking but thinking about preventative maintenance.

DUI Elite · 05-24-2013, 05:41 PM

Ecs tuning recommends Redline D4 for some reason.

Wow that ctsc site's kit has fantastic pricing considering it has all oe parts / fluid

enrita · 05-24-2013, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 07tundra

Why do u say to use oem? Have not seen anydifference with the redline!

Because its a safe choice and you dont need to flush .....

07tundra · 05-24-2013, 06:38 PM

ok fair enough

Perceval · 05-26-2013, 05:03 PM

IM a mecanic and I use RedLine Atf 4 and no issue. D'ont waste your money and dont scared to use no Oem Fluid . It is really good . Just be sure to change your fluid frequently.

Personnaly I chande my transmission fluid every 30000km or 2 years. And the filter every 2 fluid flush.

07tundra · 05-26-2013, 05:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by enrita

Because its a safe choice and you dont need to flush .....

How do you know I don't need a flush...lol

enrita · 05-26-2013, 05:39 PM

Because its the same fluid lol ... Flush it if you want up to you, gonna be more expensive.

07tundra · 05-26-2013, 10:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by enrita

Because its the same fluid lol ... Flush it if you want up to you, gonna be more expensive.

No you're right I don't and I don't track the car (autocross) and I only have 40k so I think a filter change and some fluid should be good.

BMWM.D. · 05-27-2013, 01:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 07tundra

How do you know I don't need a flush...lol

Because you are just topping the trans off with fresh OEM oil. If you want to switch to a different type, you'd really want to do a thorough flush of the transmission to get all the old OEM fluid out. That's my 2-cents, anyway. Using OEM fluid, there is no reason to flush the transmission.

Wedge1967 · 05-27-2013, 04:02 PM

Another option is the John Deere Hy-Gard which is ZF rated. I know it sounds funny, but Deere uses the highest quality oils for industrial application.

Test Analysis

Viscosity @ 40°C................... 59 cSt
Viscosity @ 100°C................. 9.4 cSt
Viscosity index...................... 140
Density................................ 0.89 g/cm3
Pour point........................... -40°C
Flash point........................... 227°C

– Formulated with friction modifiers that provide smooth clutch engagement and high braking capacity with minimum chatter.

– Formulated with a viscosity improver additive to ensure correct viscosity at all temperatures; this additive is not found in many competitive oils, yet is critical to equipment performance and component protection.

– Hy-Gard oil has a viscosity between the ISO grades of 46 and 68 @ 40°C.

– Exceeds JDM J2OC specification. Some competitive oils may meet these minimum J20 specifications, but none meet the performance requirements placed on Hy-Gard oil.

05-24-2013, 09:09 AM	#1
07tundra Lieutenant Colonel 122 Rep 1,524 Posts Drives: 8.1L Chevy 2500hd Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: New Mexico iTrader: (9)	Transmission Fluid I know whats recommended just wondering if anyone is using anything different that is better with success? As I am planning on doing a fluid+filter change. Anything else i should do while i'm in there? This is 6 AT Last edited by 07tundra; 05-24-2013 at 09:42 AM..
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05-24-2013, 09:13 AM	#2
enrita Major General 161 Rep 7,377 Posts Drives: 335i - Big turbos Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Italian in Sweden iTrader: (0)	Use the OEM one. i have Redline D6 ATF and no issues. __________________ 07 335i AT - MOTIV 750 - MHD E85 BMS flash - BMS PI - JB4G5 - Okada Coils - NGK 5992 Plugs - Helix IC - Snow Stg. 3 - Stett CP - Custom midpipes with 100 HJS Cats - Bastuck Quad - PSS10 - QUAIFE LSD - BMS OCC - Forge DVs - AR OC - ALCON BBK - M3 Chassi - Dinan CP - Velocity M rear Toe arms - Advan RZ-DF - LUX H8 - Level 10 AT upgrade
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05-24-2013, 09:30 AM	#3
DUI Elite ///M at Heart 90 Rep 1,954 Posts Drives: 06 SGM E90, 15 BSM E84 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Chicago, IL iTrader: (4)	I'm considering using the Redline fluid instead of the OEM trans fluid too. Is it approved by BMW? __________________ \| 3-IM \| AA Headers \| Eurocharged Stage-3 \| BMW PI \|
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05-24-2013, 11:27 AM	#4
busky2k ... 8 Rep 27 Posts Drives: M3CX Join Date: May 2013 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	There is no official substitute for the OEM fluid. It is called ZF Lifeguard 6 or Shell M-1375.4. Unfortunately ZF do not license out the formulation to any 3rd parties. However its worth buying the fluid from The CTSC as it appears reasonably priced! Personally I'm sure Redline D6 or Amsoil ATL should work but there is not enough long term evidence to say it is 100% safe.
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05-24-2013, 12:35 PM	#6
07tundra Lieutenant Colonel 122 Rep 1,524 Posts Drives: 8.1L Chevy 2500hd Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: New Mexico iTrader: (9)	Ctsc?
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05-24-2013, 01:02 PM	#9
BMWM.D. Stupid Idiot 138 Rep 827 Posts Drives: E90 335i & 6th Gen ZL1 Join Date: May 2009 Location: Santa Barbara iTrader: (1)	To me, it just isn't worth the risk by trying to save a few bucks on the fluid. I also don't like the idea of mixing 2 different oils in the transmission, which is sure to happen if you just drop the pan. When I replace the pan/filter on these cars, I think it usually takes 4-5 liters of fluid. The transmission, Mechatronics, converter, cooler and lines hold quite a bit more, though. __________________
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05-24-2013, 02:11 PM	#11
07tundra Lieutenant Colonel 122 Rep 1,524 Posts Drives: 8.1L Chevy 2500hd Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: New Mexico iTrader: (9)	Thanks guys I will order this should the sleeve that is prone for leaks while I'm at it. IT'S not leaking but thinking about preventative maintenance.
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05-24-2013, 05:41 PM	#12
DUI Elite ///M at Heart 90 Rep 1,954 Posts Drives: 06 SGM E90, 15 BSM E84 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Chicago, IL iTrader: (4)	Ecs tuning recommends Redline D4 for some reason. Wow that ctsc site's kit has fantastic pricing considering it has all oe parts / fluid Last edited by DUI Elite; 05-24-2013 at 06:06 PM..
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05-24-2013, 06:38 PM	#14
07tundra Lieutenant Colonel 122 Rep 1,524 Posts Drives: 8.1L Chevy 2500hd Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: New Mexico iTrader: (9)	ok fair enough
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05-26-2013, 05:03 PM	#15
Perceval New Member 0 Rep 7 Posts Drives: 325i e90 Join Date: May 2013 Location: Quebec iTrader: (0)	IM a mecanic and I use RedLine Atf 4 and no issue. D'ont waste your money and dont scared to use no Oem Fluid . It is really good . Just be sure to change your fluid frequently. Personnaly I chande my transmission fluid every 30000km or 2 years. And the filter every 2 fluid flush.
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05-26-2013, 05:39 PM	#17
enrita Major General 161 Rep 7,377 Posts Drives: 335i - Big turbos Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Italian in Sweden iTrader: (0)	Because its the same fluid lol ... Flush it if you want up to you, gonna be more expensive. __________________ 07 335i AT - MOTIV 750 - MHD E85 BMS flash - BMS PI - JB4G5 - Okada Coils - NGK 5992 Plugs - Helix IC - Snow Stg. 3 - Stett CP - Custom midpipes with 100 HJS Cats - Bastuck Quad - PSS10 - QUAIFE LSD - BMS OCC - Forge DVs - AR OC - ALCON BBK - M3 Chassi - Dinan CP - Velocity M rear Toe arms - Advan RZ-DF - LUX H8 - Level 10 AT upgrade
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05-27-2013, 04:02 PM	#20
Wedge1967 Banned 125 Rep 2,172 Posts Drives: '07 e92 AT Sport Montego Blue Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: Portland, OR iTrader: (3)	Another option is the John Deere Hy-Gard which is ZF rated. I know it sounds funny, but Deere uses the highest quality oils for industrial application. Test Analysis Viscosity @ 40°C................... 59 cSt Viscosity @ 100°C................. 9.4 cSt Viscosity index...................... 140 Density................................ 0.89 g/cm3 Pour point........................... -40°C Flash point........................... 227°C – Formulated with friction modifiers that provide smooth clutch engagement and high braking capacity with minimum chatter. – Formulated with a viscosity improver additive to ensure correct viscosity at all temperatures; this additive is not found in many competitive oils, yet is critical to equipment performance and component protection. – Hy-Gard oil has a viscosity between the ISO grades of 46 and 68 @ 40°C. – Exceeds JDM J2OC specification. Some competitive oils may meet these minimum J20 specifications, but none meet the performance requirements placed on Hy-Gard oil.
	Appreciate 0 Quote