Changing to Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid
The safer and probably most efficient option is to take your car to your trusted mechanic with your synthetic ATF. To have a complete change you'll need approximately double if you want every drop of old ATF replaced. I've heard from a retired mechanic use his own contraption consisting of a bicycle pump forcing the new stuff in as the old stuff comes out the bottom. When the color changes to the new, it's done. The synthetic I use is compatible with petroleum based ATF so it's not a big deal to have some left in the transmission.
Using synthetic ATFwww.lubedealer.com/hiebert is the best preventative maintenance choice. It protects one of the most expensive components in a car from wear due to extreme temperatures, oxidation, thermal break down and contamination. Petroleum based ATF contains a paraffin which solidifies when exposed to extreme cold temperatures. Many a car owner, who did not have syntetic in the the engine and particularly the transmission this past winter, could have prevented much grief if he had planned ahead with synthetic. Synthetic ATF remains fluid to extreme cold temperatures. Extended drain intervals reduces maintenance expenses and down time. Using a superior ATF filter that filters smaller contaminants without reducing flow is crucial. Many cheap or less expensive after market products will be tempting but in the longer term, a superior product that may be the same or higher initial off the shelf price will save maintenance and operation expense. Reading and knowing it's capabilities and specifications will tell you whether or not it's what you should be looking for.
Some technical jargon you will see when looking for the product are names like Dexron, Mercon etc. These apply to the two major manufacturers. Others like Chrysler, Toyota and Honda will have ATF products containing their name. A superior synthetic lubricant manufacturer located in Superior WI manufacturers its synthetic ATF which meets and exceeds these original equipment manufacturers, commonly known as OEM's. It's best to refer to your owner's manual to see exactly what specifications you need. If you are doing this for a newer vehicle, the best thing is to take it to your dealer where you purchased the car. Again, you can get your own synthetic from your favorite synthetic lubricant supplier, he should be able to suggest the exact product option for your car.
The synthetic I refer to can also be used for the power steering fluid and hydraulics where ATF is specified.
