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Transmission fluid brand Issues

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Old 03-18-2015, 06:07 PM
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Default Transmission fluid brand Issues

I need to purchase some trans fluid but while poking around on the forum, all I happen to find was a bunch of different posts with different types of fluids. After an hour of researching I don't know the best one for the cheapest price. Please post links or part numbers in the replies for me. Thanks.

***what does this MB 236.14 mean, I have seen it popup on the forum and its in the titles of some of these fluids. Do i want this?***
 
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Old 03-18-2015, 06:32 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

In the US, it gonna be the liquid gold from the MB dealership, or
Valvoline SYNPOWER ATF 134
or
Mobil ATF 134

http://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/236.14_en.html
 

Last edited by ala_xfire; 03-18-2015 at 06:37 PM.
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Old 03-18-2015, 07:08 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

This is the Genuine Mercedes transmission fluid that's designed to meet Mercedes 236.14 service specifications.
Also known as ATF 4134. This fluid can be used in transfer cases on some AWD models.


https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...FUMvgQodEZ4Arg
 
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Old 03-19-2015, 11:52 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Transmission fluid

Original spec
MB 236.10 ATF A 001 989 21 03
Or, MOPAR Part # 05127382AA
Or, Shell 3403 M115
Or, Shell SPIRAX S3 ATF 3403
All above discontinued
Valvoline http://www.valvoline.com/pdf/maxlife_atf.pdf VV324

Current spec
MB 236.14 ATF A 001 989 63 03 13
001989680313 - Automatic Transmission Fluid - Priced Each - ES#1887653
Or, Mopar: 5127382AB
Or, Shell ATF 134
Amazon.com: Shell ATF 134 Mercedes Benz Transmission Fluid 236.14 236.12 x6 QT (1/2 Case): Automotive Amazon.com: Shell ATF 134 Mercedes Benz Transmission Fluid 236.14 236.12 x6 QT (1/2 Case): Automotive
Or, Valvoline SYNPOWER ATF 134
Or, Mobil ATF 134

https://www.crossfireforum.org/forum...ares-list.html
 
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Old 03-20-2015, 12:32 AM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Originally Posted by GregWork
Transmission fluid

Original spec
MB 236.10 ATF A 001 989 21 03
Or, MOPAR Part # 05127382AA
Or, Shell 3403 M115
Or, Shell SPIRAX S3 ATF 3403
All above discontinued
Valvoline http://www.valvoline.com/pdf/maxlife_atf.pdf VV324
They still make the MB 236.10 A0019892103

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...d-0019892103my

I believe Rudy discussed the advantages to using the original 236.10 spec fluid in our trans over the newer 236.14 spec. some time back.


 

Last edited by syfi; 03-20-2015 at 12:35 AM.
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Old 03-20-2015, 12:47 AM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Originally Posted by syfi
They still make the MB 236.10 A0019892103

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...d-0019892103my

I believe Rudy discussed the advantages to using the original 236.10 spec fluid in our trans over the newer 236.14 spec. some time back.


I did a lot of research on this before, and the Meyle isn't true 236.10, so I don't include it. The Valvoline VV324 is the only available 'approved' .10 to my knowledge.

I fretted over the lack of .10 availability, but at the end of many hours of research, I concluded based on empirical evidence and user feedback that the .14 will be just fine and to stop worrying. (I think the earlier ones between .10 and .14 did have some performance issues)
 
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Old 03-20-2015, 01:57 AM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Originally Posted by GregWork
I did a lot of research on this before, and the Meyle isn't true 236.10, so I don't include it. The Valvoline VV324 is the only available 'approved' .10 to my knowledge.

I fretted over the lack of .10 availability, but at the end of many hours of research, I concluded based on empirical evidence and user feedback that the .14 will be just fine and to stop worrying. (I think the earlier ones between .10 and .14 did have some performance issues)
I've had great luck with AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF.
Carries the Chrysler ATF+4®, MOPAR® AS68RC spec and Mercedes Benz 236.1, 236.2, 236.3, 236.5, 236.6, 236.7, 236.9, 236.10, 236.11, 236.81.
Been running it in my '05 Limited for the last 3 yrs / 50k and she's still as smooth as budda!
 
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Old 03-20-2015, 07:03 AM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF.
Ha Ha Ha. Sorry, read that and had a flashback to "My Cousin Vinny"
( Marisa Tomei stopping the faucet drip scene )
Vinny: How can you be sure you used 16 foot pounds of torque?Mona Lisa: Because I used a Craftsman model 1019 Laboratory edition, signature series torque wrench. The kind used by Cal Tech High Energy physicists, and NASA engineers.
 
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Old 03-20-2015, 04:08 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Amsoil Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF has worked great for me no problems shifts nice.
 
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Old 03-20-2015, 04:47 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

This is the thread by rcompart on tranny fluids for our cars, I'd say you cannot go to far wrong adhering to what it says.
 
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Old 03-20-2015, 05:46 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Originally Posted by onehundred80
This is the thread by rcompart on tranny fluids for our cars, I'd say you cannot go to far wrong adhering to what it says.
Using MB approved 236.10 is all well and good, and if it was still available I would be using it. But it hasn't been available in the US for about 2-3 years.

Shell made the original 236.10 for MB. They no longer do.

http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w210...mbo-jumbo.html
 
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Spec_231_1.pdf (199.8 KB, 6 views)
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Old 03-20-2015, 05:53 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Originally Posted by GregWork
Using MB approved 236.10 is all well and good, and if it was still available I would be using it. But it hasn't been available in the US for about 2-3 years.

Shell made the original 236.10 for MB. They no longer do.

236.10 ATF Marketing Mumbo-Jumbo??? - Mercedes-Benz Forum
Or is it .......
FEBI Automatic Transmission Fluid - (MBZ Approval:236.10) 001989210310

Febi made all 3 mb fluids, 236.10, .12, and .14. Febi 22806 is 236.10, Febi 27001 is 236.12 and Febi 29449 is 236.14 http://www.febi-parts.com/blaetterka...f/complete.pdf

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/aut...RP4RoC1rvw_wcB

Amazon.com: FEBI Automatic Transmission Fluid - (MBZ Approval:236.10) 001989210310: Automotive Amazon.com: FEBI Automatic Transmission Fluid - (MBZ Approval:236.10) 001989210310: Automotive


And thanx 180. I knew Rudy had stated that some time ago!
 

Last edited by syfi; 03-20-2015 at 06:30 PM.
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Old 03-20-2015, 07:36 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

febi says they meet MB specs, but MB doesn't say febi meets theirs = it is not MB approved for 236.10.[29449/ 236.14 looks like it may be OK]

febi 22806 is a universal ATF for all automatic transmissions
http://www.febi.com/fileadmin/user_u...rochure_GB.pdf

MB recently updated to only list the following as meeting 236.10

Shell 3403 is what is in the MB 236.10 bottle.
Mercedes-Benz Getriebeöl MB 236.10 Daimler AG, Stuttgart/Deutschland
MB 236.10 Flüssigkeitsgetriebeöl (ATF) A 001 989 21 03 Daimler AG, Stuttgart/Deutschland
RAVENOL ATF M 6-Serie Ravensberger Schmierstoffvertrieb GmbH, Werther/Deutschland
Shell ATF 3403 M-115 Shell International Petroleum Company, LONDON/UNITED KINGDOM
Shell SPIRAX S4 ATF 3403 Shell International Petroleum Company, LONDON/UNITED KINGDOM

MB no longer even lists 236.10 as Optional for use in the 722.6 (since 2008 only use 236.14 see att SB)

Here is a quote from a guy that helped develop .14
722.6 ATF - MBWorld.org Forums
The 236.14 fluid is superior to the old fluid in ALL respects. I was involved in it's development for my company. Better anti oxidation due to far better synthetic base fluid, better viscosity maintenance, longer life in service, far longer maintenance of shift shock quality, lower wear rates. There is only one approved additive system so whether you buy Fuchs, Benz OE, Febi or Shell it makes no difference. Shell sells their fluid at the most reasonable price via Ryderfleetproducts in the US. The fluid is identified in all cases on the pack as approved against MB 236.14. Ignore any fluid that says "meets the requirements of"

Remember that the 722.9 is a development of the 722.6 with a Ravigneaux gearset to achieve the extra ratios.

There has never been a fluid issue in all the generational changes from 236.1 to 236.14. Early 722.9 transmissions had some TCU issues, speed sensor/conductor plate issues, fluid level issues hence the new spill tube height & pan redesign etc. None related to fluid. It has been a steady progression as Benz has strived for longer fluid life without transmission performance change.

The old & new fluids are designed to be miscible & fungible. However the new fluid uses better friction modifiers so to enjoy the full benefit a complete change is sensible.

There is a HUGE amount of crap spoken on the internet & forums about this issue...
Further, same person has data on MB warranty for the 722.6 transmission and failure rates and warranty claims went down significantly after the change from 236.10 to .14 in 2008. LOTS of good info in that thread above. Including how to do a full flush including the Tq Converter.

Approved 236.10 is not available.
Fuchs probably had the last 236.1 product on the planet. It is withdrawn because it is obsolete & no longer required. ... Please just use the 236.14 product...
Read more: 722.6 ATF - Page 3 - MBWorld.org Forums
I'm not trying to start a flame war here. But I do believe in using the best products for my cars. I'm fully confident that 236.14 is the correct current fluid for the 722.6xx and will use it in my car.
 
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MB mandate 236.14.jpg (25.7 KB, 31 views)
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File Type: pdf
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Old 03-20-2015, 09:46 PM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

There could be many different reasons why certain mfg are not listed (didn't want to pay the licensing/testing fees imposed to be on the list), but Amsoil has NEVER been listed on any mfg spec sheet and has been proven on ALL forums to work great in ALL vehicles for ALL specs. Go figure!!

The original 236.10 fluid is thicker viscosity than the later fluids... it is very similar to the old Dexron-III. The 236.12 was a reduced viscosity version introduced for fuel economy reasons, and is similar to Dexron-VI. The 236.14 is another variation of the low-viscosity stuff (not sure exactly what the difference is).
For high performance applications, a thicker fluid is generally desired, not thinner. This is one case where you would probably NOT want to use a .12 or .14 fluid in the 722.6 tranny. For normal street use at stock power levels, sure, the new fluid spec is probably fine... might even see a slight increase in fuel economy.

Oh, and the original OEM marked M/B fluid were remarked Febi bottles!
 

Last edited by syfi; 03-20-2015 at 10:05 PM.
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Old 03-21-2015, 12:38 AM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

From what I understand the VI is different on the two, but the operating viscosity is the same.
Shell ATF | A-Java LLC | Shell in Armenia, the import of machine spares, construction

134/ 236.14
40C/104F viscosity = 29
100C = 6.2

3403/236.10
40C/104F viscosity = 34.5
100C = 7.4

There is no practical difference between a viscosity of 6 and 7. So you may see a little difference with a cold transmission, but not under normal operation.

MB continued to make the 722.6 transmission, install and warranty it, for many years after the factory switched over to 236.14
 
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Old 03-21-2015, 03:09 AM
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Default Re: Transmission fluid brand Issues

Interesting Facts from the ETE REMAN blog...
(Explains the reason why I've always emphasized that everyone should cap their Trans dipstick tube!)

The W5A580 is extremely sensitive to the quality of the transmissions fluid. Even with the slightest hint of water in the fluid (as low as 0.05%) the transmission can start shuddering. If you experience shuddering with your transmission, try changing out the fluid with new fluid and be sure to replace the internal filter, too. In my opinion this transmission is the perfect candidate for an aftermarket external transmission filter. The aftermarket filters are designed to work with the factory internal filter still in place. The aftermarket filter is usually placed in one of the transmission cooler lines and uses a filter element similar to ones used for cleaning engine oil. They are specifically designed to trap fine debris and water.
Water getting in around the dipstick tube is another problem and is directly related to the problem above. The problem is usually caused by a defective O-ring. The O-ring can also be the cause of fluid leaking from the transmission, too. The cure is simple. Replace the O-ring with a new, upgraded O-ring. It will take you longer to get the car up in the air to work on it then it will take you to replace the actual O-ring.
Source: custom magnums.com

There have been a few complaints about the torque converter clutch not holding correctly. The problem could be caused by a defect clutch inside the torque converter, transmission fluid contamination or a faulty solenoid. The problem is not wide spread but you should be aware of the potential for it to arise.
Overheating from excessive abuse is another thing to watch out with these transmissions. The cars that this transmission is usually placed in are all high performance models. The owners think they can abuse the transmission with no side effect. They are wrong. Transmission abuse will lead to excessive heat buildup and if not kept in check, will quickly destroy the transmission.
Source: benzworld.com

Here are a couple cool facts about the W5A580:
- It uses a torque management system that is designed to make the transmission shift smoother.
- The ECM is programmed with drive recognition software that helps customize the shift points based on how you use the cars braking system and how you interact with the gas pedal.
The W5A580 is designed to last for a long time with proper care. If for some reason your W5A580 transmission fails, seriously consider replacing it with a re-manufactured transmission over one that was simply rebuilt. A re-manufactured transmission will include upgrades and modifications designed to make them last long and will usually come with an extend warranty, neither of which you will find in a rebuilt transmission.

More info:
Mercedes NAG1 / WA580 automatic transmission for Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler

From the Lubricants Database:
Specs.jpg

 

Last edited by syfi; 04-09-2015 at 05:01 PM.
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