Transmission/t-case fluid questions.

First, my 2001 owners manual says for the 4.0L, that only fluid changes are recommended, and for the 2.5L, that a fluid change, band adjustment, and filter replacement are recommended.

Does the AW4 not require band adjustment and filter changes?

Also, can I use Dexron (Valvoline Maxlife) in the transfer case, even though it calls for ATF +3/+4?

I don't know the answer to the band adjustment question.

I did normal fluid changes in the AW4 until 120,000. Then I dropped the pan and did the filter also. It had a lot of crap caught in the filter (screen). So I would recommend changing it sooner than 120,000. The filter came with a gasket at NAPA. Be sure to tell them it's an AW4 (Asine-Warner). For some reason, they come up with a Chrylser transmission in the computer.

Dexron III is fine for the transfer case. The tranny filter and fluid should both be changed but don't worry about band adjustment.

I recall reading somwehere the bands are not adjustable in the AW4. I will try to find where I read that, and let you know.

If I just drain and fill the tranny, how much fluid does that take? Does it take any more with a filter change?

4 to 5 quarts seems to be the norm. It will not require more with a filter.

No bands, clutch discs and solenoids as far as I know. Other than that do what those guys say.

The filter is just a sump screen, and can be cleaned and reinstalled. Replace with a gasket from cut material or use LocTite 518 Gasket Eliminator to replace.

Service fill is four quarts of Dexron II/III, and the filter does not use any extra capacity.

There is no band adjustment in the AW4, it is theoretically self-adjusting.

Oh - by all reports, the clutches in the AW4 don't like synthetic fluid, so stay away from that. I think the MaxLife is still "natural," so that should be fine.

Remember, HEAT IS THE ENEMY!

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