Mopar zf 8&9 speed atf automatic transmission fluid equivalent

So I've got my trans pan/filter ordered, but i'm seeing a lot of chatter, but nothing definitive, on alternatives to the Mopar ZF trans fluid. I see some people using Valv Max Life, but others (on other forums) saying don't use. Amsoil? Redline? Also seeing a generic ZF fluid on amazon. What the skinny?

Thanks

I recently retired from a transmission manufacturing company that was a competitor of ZF but we did very similar testing. All of our testing was done with only one type of fluid that would match the clutch material for each model and that is why we only recommended that fluid. We were not in the business of proving if other ATF manufacturer's was ok with our transmissions. The wrong fluid can cause shift harshness or slipping or lubrication issues. I'm not saying other ATF's are not ok, but the reason that other fluids are not recommended is because the original manufacturer does not test the transmissions with other companies ATF.

Amsoil fuel efficent signature series has proven good results in my transmission.

I have Amsoil ready for my transmission service this summer.

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you using the Fuel Efficient or the multi-vehicle?

Valvoline Maxlife ATF is perfectly fine to use. It's a great oil at a great price. I run it in my transmissions and power steering in my other vehicles. It's what I'll be using when I service the transmission on my EcoDiesel.

(See attached product sheet)

I run the Valvoline MaxLife in my Ram. Valvoline lists it as suitable in the ZF transmissions.

I did the MOPAR ZF at 148.5. Since, I have read a 1/2 million mile trans with MaxLife since OEM change.

MaxLife was next for me however...may go Amsoil route still undecided...have another 66k to figure it out.

For us in Canada, PetroCan has their Duradrive LV ATF that is suitable for use with ZF. I know the 7.4cSt Duradrive is around the same price per litre as Maxlife but I assume the new LV will cost more. Maxlife is what will be going into my AS69RC next change.

thanks for the responses guys. Im gonna give the MaxLife a shot as it seems to be working well for everyone.

Thanks again.

many good suggestions in first 7 posts on changing transmission oil , in here :
https://www.ram1500diesel.com/forum...3218-how-change-transmission-fluid-check.html
.................................................. ........................
look at video here :

double check level of oil after the thermal bypass valve has opened
and now cooling system was filled ,
the transmission oil level will now be too low ,
so recheck , and bring back up to proper level .( wait to be in ZF temp region
for oil level check , if still warm it will overflow ) .
.......................................
In video , at 12:15 , the guy talks about the cooling system refilling and
bringing level down .

hey BrianF,
Where do you buy PetroCan Duradrive? Looks like they sell online but only if you have a corporate account? Do they carry specialty oils at gas stations?

So hard to find specialty fluids here in Canada. Do you know where to get the transfer case fluid or equivalent BW-44?

Havent changed mine yet, but will be using MaxLife when I do. I have put it in nearly everything I have serviced the trans on and never had a problem.

Where did you get your filter/pan from and would you share what it ran you$$$ wise?

Thanks.

Cds13ca, I buy from bulk dealers. I am not sure what is in the petrocan fuel stations as i don't go there ever.

Around these parts there are bulk dealers in just about every little town. I think the pc website lists all the dealers.....

I installed Amsoil Fuel Efficient ATF along with a PPE pan 1,200 miles ago. Shifts perfectly, several hundred miles of travel trailer towing as well. No issues.

Amsoil Fuel Efficient ATF with PPE pan. I have a routine 45 mile trip. Going off my trip meter fuel display I would say the new fluid is good for 0.5-1mpg improvement.

Having a hard time purchasing ATF for the tranny service. Valvoline Max Life is out of stock at NAPA, Amazon, Walmart. (Canada)
May have to try Motul ATF VI.

I’ve been towing with Valvoline Max life for a couple hundred thousand miles no issues.

Try buying it from WalMart if possible. It's the lowest price you'll find and free shipping if you spend $35 or more.

Collin , using Walmart Canada , it says out of stock ,
no matter the location used in search engine , same result .....