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John Da
Sep 18, 2007, 11:17 AM
I have a 2003 Toyota Tacoma 6 cyl. I am now using Mobil 1 5-30 oil. Can I also use Syn fluid for Trans? How about also power steering? I want to get the best protection available. It isn't used off road. Thanks John Da :)

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 18, 2007, 11:40 AM
Yes, I use synthetic automatic transmission fluid in my 2000 Taurus AX4N Transaxle and in the power steering unit. I've been doing this for years. You will have no problems. Just make sure the fluid (e.g. Amsoil or Mobil 1 Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF) meets the specs for you vehicle, as I believe they do. Both my transaxle and power steering pump run silky smooth in the Texas heat--they both get quite a work out.

Most people don't realize the heat, problems, and expense that can arise from an improperly maintained power steering unit. It can cost over $2,000 if the problem involves the rack and gear. If you want, use a battery squeeze bulb ($2.50 at Advance Auto) to suck out part of the power steering reservoir. Only suck out the fluid to the top of the hose feeding the power steering pump. You don't want to get air in the system. Do this several times or once every time you change your engine oil and filter. Be sure not to overfill the MAX line on the reservoir, when hot.

John Da
Sep 18, 2007, 11:47 AM
Who will do this for me? My Toyota dealer or my other mechanic? I'm new to trans axle--- is this more fluid then auto trans?

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 18, 2007, 11:53 AM
A transaxle is for a front-wheel drive car. You have a regular transmission. Here's how to properly do the job yourself:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-5.html#post552241

Here are the capacities for your Tacoma:

CAPACITIES
Engine, 2WDwith filter... 5.7 quarts[1]
Engine, 4WDwith filter... 5.5 quarts[1]
Cooling System, Initial Fill... 11.0 quarts
AMSOIL Antifreeze and Engine Coolant
Automatic Transmission, 2WD Initial Fill... 2.1 quarts[2]
Automatic Transmission, 4WD Initial Fill... 2.1 quarts[2]
Automatic Transmission, Total Fill
A44D... 6.9 quarts

1. After refill check oil level.
2. With ENG at operating temperature, shift through all
Gears. Check fluid level in PARK and add fluid as needed.

Therefore, you need to buy at least 7 quarts. The Mobil 1 Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF is available at WalMart for around $5.75 per quart.

John Da
Sep 18, 2007, 01:50 PM
Do I siphon fluid from power steering? Do they make Mobil 1 power steering fluid?

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 18, 2007, 01:54 PM
Sipon from the power steering reservoir. You can use the Mobil 1 synthetic ATF in your Tacoma. Unlike GM, I believe your Tacoma uses automatic transmission fluid, not power steering fluid, for lubricating the power steering system. Check your owner's manual.

John Da
Sep 18, 2007, 01:57 PM
Do you know capacity of power steering? :)

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 18, 2007, 02:21 PM
No. Suck out the fluid to the level I mentioned above, empty it into a plastic beaker, mark beaker, empty old fluid out, fill beaker with new fluid to the mark, and pour into reservoir.

John Da
Sep 18, 2007, 03:58 PM
Thanks Txgreasemonkey!!! I have extended warranty --- Will Syn Void it?? I don't believe it should. Jonn Da

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 18, 2007, 04:23 PM
Not if the lubricants meet Toyota's specs.

John Da
Sep 19, 2007, 04:01 AM
Do I have to have trans pan removed,or is there a drain plug like oil pan,to do transmission?

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 19, 2007, 06:06 AM
I believe you only have a pan, without a drain plug.

John Da
Sep 19, 2007, 11:26 AM
Thanks TXgreasemonkey :) :D

John Da
Sep 19, 2007, 04:36 PM
TXgreasemonkey--------- My owner manual calls for dextron 2-or 3 for power steering. Do you know if mobile 1 ATF Syn is OK?

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 19, 2007, 05:25 PM
You're covered. Call 1-800 ASK-MOBIL to allay any fears.

John Da
Sep 21, 2007, 04:43 AM
TXgreasemonkey
My 2003 6 cyl trans fluid is type T-IV?? I am confused,if mobile 1 is comparable with T-IV.
If not, do you know another quality Syn trans fluid comparable with Type T-IV?? Thanks, John Da. 800 # really didn't help me.

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 21, 2007, 07:17 AM
You can't use the Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF in your transmission, but you can use Amsoil's Synthetic Universal ATF:

AMSOIL - Synthetic Universal Automatic Transmission Fluid (http://www.amsoil.com/StoreFront/atf.aspx)

You can still use the Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF in your power steering system.

John Da
Sep 21, 2007, 10:10 AM
Thanks TXgreasemonkey---------- Have you ever used AMSOIL?? I really never heard of it. John Da

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 21, 2007, 10:12 AM
Yes, for years. They make AWESOME products. Become a Preferred Customer and get 20% off.

I've used their products in automatic and manual transmissions; car and truck engines; power steering units; home air conditioners; two-cycle chain saws, blowers, and weed eaters; and mowers. They make some of the best lubricants in the world, in every category.

John Da
Sep 21, 2007, 10:23 AM
Souds like a Great Oil :) I hope I can get it locally by me at Auto Stores?

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 21, 2007, 10:28 AM
Here are their distribution centers, where you can save on shipping by picking up the products yourself:

AMSOIL INC. Distribution Centers (http://www.amsoil.com/distribution_centers.aspx)

Even if you have to pay for shipping, their products are worth it.

Some auto stores stock it, most don't. The local Honda dealers near me stock it and use it in their cars. Easiest way is to buy it on-line.

John Da
Sep 21, 2007, 10:39 AM
THANKYOU--for all your help :) John Da

John Da
Sep 22, 2007, 01:03 PM
Txgreasemonkey--
8. Clean transmission pan thoroughly with solvent (e.g. brake cleaner) and wipe dry, so there is no harmful residue. If there's a magnet, it should be cleaned and replaced in the same position in the pan. Clean transmission and transmission pan mating surfaces of all gasket material, being careful not to damage the surfaces. If the transmission didn't come with a drain plug, I recommend installing a B&M Transmission Drain Plug in the pan at this time. It makes subsequent changes a snap. Carefully choose a location for drilling a 1/2" hole for the plug. Some manufacturers emboss a "0" where the hole should be drilled. Install drain plug, nylon washer, nut, and torque to 20 ft.-lbs. Does the B&M Transmission plug have to be threaded after drilling 1/2" hole?

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 22, 2007, 06:04 PM
No. Here's the order: plug, washer, pan, inside nut. The washer seals everything perfectly. I've had one in my 2000 Taurus ATX pan for 6 years and it has never leaked a drop. Follow the directions that come with the plug and you won't have any problems.

kitch428
Sep 22, 2007, 10:35 PM
John da. Kitch428 here talking at cha. I'm a Toyota master tech. I've been reading about your trans Q's and if there's any question about a drain plug, well Toyota put one there for you so don't worry about it. It's 14mm, and you'll need a new crush washer to button it up. Toyota likes the T-IV in there, but it's your truck and totally your call on what you want best for your truck.
I can see it's your baby and you want the best for it. I'm just here to tell you that it's been working fine whatever the factory called for it for the many years I've been working on them.

John Da
Sep 23, 2007, 04:18 AM
Kitch428--------- I want my truck to last as long as possible. It isn't used off road, but for mostly short runs. I know syn products are a hellava better then conventional. I already use mobil 1 motor oil.but nervous about syn in trans,and adding to power steering. I am possibly ready to try Amsoil syn products. Since you probably know my truck better then me,if you had it ,would you go 100% with syn??

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 23, 2007, 01:53 PM
Mobil 1 engine oil was considered by many uninformed people to be "snake oil" for years, now it comes as factory-fill in the finest automobiles in the world. If you'll use Mobil 1 in your engine (and love it) and Mobil 1 Synthetic Multi-Purpose ATF meets Toyota's specs for power steering fluid, why should you be apprehensive to use it? Take your concerns to BobIsTheOilGuy.com.

John Da
Sep 24, 2007, 08:56 AM
Just Nervous??