ATF for S70

S70LPT · Post by **S70LPT** » 19 May 2009, 10:00

Good day

My car is year end 1999 S70-2.0T , with 163 bhp and 230nm.
I think this model found only in Asia market. Not much info I get from net.

The weakest point is auto gearbox. Already rebuilt for three times. It's AW 50-42 LE which is 4 speed (without Sport / Economy mode)

I do read previous posting in this forum , but still have confusion about suitable ATF alternative. Forgive about bringing up this topic..again. For many years been using expensive orginal ATF. After the 3rd rebuilt, I give up using Volvo ATF, and now on Toyota Type IV .

Is 1999 AW50-42 compatible with Toyota Type IV atf ?

Thank you

Post by **JDS60R** » 19 May 2009, 12:17

Your vehicle only requires Dexron3/Mercon. The issue is usually heat . The type IV toyota fluid you are using is not the correct fluid and is a bit too slippery for your transmission.

Switch the fluid to a full Sythetic Dexron3 mercon fluid - We suggest Amsoil ATF or a Castrol sythetic.

Also - Put a transmission cooler in line with the return line from the radiator.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 19 May 2009, 16:32

Not to disagree, but actually Volvo recommends going to the type #3309 for 4 speed auto Aisin-Warner transmissions that are having issues... I've never tried it as I've kept with Mobil Synthetic ATF in my S70. I use Dex/Merc (Castrol) in the 850 as that is actually closer to the original spec.

S70LPT · Post by **S70LPT** » 19 May 2009, 18:11

Thank you

After the 3rd gearbox rebuilt & filled with Toyota Type IV ATF, I drive the car for 900 miles. Can feel the shifting is smoother. Atf level at dipstick also never get low and the color still maintain pink & clean.

Also during the 3rd rebuilt, I asked mechanic to fit extra ATF cooler. Good stuff to have , weather is hot here in Malaysia

Everything works fine so far. It really scare me to drive long distance because all the previous gearbox breakdown happened after long distance trips ( 8 hours drive).

Mobil 3309 is very difficult to get here. But there's Castrol ATF. Conoco's Super 76 Dex III is popular alternative here in Malaysia.

Thanks again

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 19 May 2009, 19:55

Toyota Type IV ATF = JWS-3309
It's the same thing!

S70LPT · Post by **S70LPT** » 19 May 2009, 20:17

MIJ

So I can conclude, no need to flush out the Toyota Type IV and can safely using it?

Thanks

Post by **JDS60R** » 19 May 2009, 21:14

I was unaware that Volvo had suggested the JWS-3309.
You should call a local transmission shop to ask if the fluid would do any damage. Or just call a Volvo dealership.

Best to use a synthetic or change often.

Glad to hear you have the transmission cooler

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 19 May 2009, 21:53

Yes, call Volvo if you wish...you can use 3309 in 4 speed auto transmissions but not the other way around (dexron in the 5 speeds).

S70LPT · Post by **S70LPT** » 19 May 2009, 23:02

Aaahh..

Glad to know I can use the Toyota Type IV ( 3309)

I can have good sleep tonight

JDS60R,

Yes..there's ATF cooler now. Many friends fit the extra ATF cooler long time ago on their T5s .

I guess,the original radiator cooler did not do well in hot climate..thus extra ATF cooler is good to have.