1999 S80-T6 ATF Pricing/flush method

[SimLyons]

I see Amazon has Mobil 3309, 12 pack w/free shipping for $64.00. Buying the Mobil 1 synthetic ATF will run $10.00/qt, or $120.00 for 12. I had intended to do a full flush but maybe go for the drain and fill after emptying the trans and change the filter (about 7+ qts) and do this for the full 12 qts, about 2-3 weeks between. The trans was replaced by Volvo in 1994 and currently has 60K miles on it, with no drains/flush. I just got the car and wanted to attack the trans as soon as I replaced the alternator (doing today).

Advice?

[kahl]

Hi Sim, We have 2 S80s in the family. We have had the the Volvo dealer flush these transmitions every 50 K. they use a machine that first sends some kind of cleaner through the transmition then new fluid. The dealer charged us 199.00 for this service. Both cars are non turbo with original transmitions.

on our 850' c70 and V70 we do this service ourselves. We are just shy of the tranny in the S80.

[SimLyons]

Yes, I know what you mean about the trans. dealer serviced. I've talked with several others and several technicians and I'm getting pretty strong recommendations to overdo it with drain and fill about every 20K miles. That's my feeling, too. This thing just has gobs of low-end torque. So my gut tells me that if I'm going through all that ATF I should probably go easy on the funds...use the 3309. Would like any other experiences/suggestions.

I've had several R's and never an issue.

[jimmy57]

The GM trans in that car uses the cheap stuff, Dexron-III. I know of no benefit to using 3309 as it is expensive and is not synthetic. Synthetic D-III would be a good idea.
There are two steel lines on driver's side of trans at front underneath. The one that points straight back (horizontal entry to trans) is the return to trans. Slide a piece of hose on it and then put into a bucket.
now crank engine and let it run 25 seconds. Pour in 5 quarts and repeat twice. Now re-attach line and add 2 quarts, run it and check and add as needed to get to full level.

[SimLyons]

Thanks again, Jimmy! Good info!