Manual Transmission: Lubrication
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Pickup, 2004 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2004 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2004 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
Additives and friction modifiers are not recommended for use in ZF transmissions.
ZF transmissions are designed so that the internal parts operate in an oil bath circulated by the motion of the gears and shafts. All parts are amply lubricated if these procedures are followed:
- Maintain the correct fluid level by inspecting it regularly.
- Change the fluid regularly. Refer to the Owners Literature for the recommended intervals.
- Use MERCON® Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting Ford specification MERCON®.
High operating temperatures increase the lubricant's rate of oxidation and shorten its effective life. When the average operating temperature is high, the transmission may require more frequent fluid changes or external cooling. External oil coolers are used to reduce high operating temperatures. The following conditions in any combination can cause high operating temperatures:
- Operating consistently at slow speeds.
- High ambient temperatures.
- Restricted air flow around the transmission.
- Exhaust system too close to the transmission.