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-   -   Syn fluid? (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=130965)

  • Sep 18, 2007, 11:17 AM
    John Da
    Syn fluid?
    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 :)
  • Sep 18, 2007, 11:40 AM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    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.
  • Sep 18, 2007, 11:47 AM
    John Da
    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?
  • Sep 18, 2007, 11:53 AM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    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-t...tml#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.
  • Sep 18, 2007, 01:50 PM
    John Da
    Do I siphon fluid from power steering? Do they make Mobil 1 power steering fluid?
  • Sep 18, 2007, 01:54 PM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    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.
  • Sep 18, 2007, 01:57 PM
    John Da
    Do you know capacity of power steering? :)
  • Sep 18, 2007, 02:21 PM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    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.
  • Sep 18, 2007, 03:58 PM
    John Da
    Thanks Txgreasemonkey!!! I have extended warranty --- Will Syn Void it?? I don't believe it should. Jonn Da
  • Sep 18, 2007, 04:23 PM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    Not if the lubricants meet Toyota's specs.
  • Sep 19, 2007, 04:01 AM
    John Da
    Do I have to have trans pan removed,or is there a drain plug like oil pan,to do transmission?
  • Sep 19, 2007, 06:06 AM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    I believe you only have a pan, without a drain plug.
  • Sep 19, 2007, 11:26 AM
    John Da
    Thanks TXgreasemonkey :) :D
  • Sep 19, 2007, 04:36 PM
    John Da
    TXgreasemonkey--------- My owner manual calls for dextron 2-or 3 for power steering. Do you know if mobile 1 ATF Syn is OK?
  • Sep 19, 2007, 05:25 PM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    You're covered. Call 1-800 ASK-MOBIL to allay any fears.
  • Sep 21, 2007, 04:43 AM
    John Da
    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.
  • Sep 21, 2007, 07:17 AM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    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

    You can still use the Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF in your power steering system.
  • Sep 21, 2007, 10:10 AM
    John Da
    Thanks TXgreasemonkey---------- Have you ever used AMSOIL?? I really never heard of it. John Da
  • Sep 21, 2007, 10:12 AM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    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.
  • Sep 21, 2007, 10:23 AM
    John Da
    Souds like a Great Oil :) I hope I can get it locally by me at Auto Stores?

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