Weird Transmission Issue

[jross20]

Another thing I would say is to find a transmission fluid that is as close to the original dex III as possible. The reason I say that is because I noticed that a lot of the different fluids wildly varying viscosities.

I don't like the idea of using fluid that is much thinner than the original design called for. The closest fluid I found after a lot of research was the blue bottled dex/Merc fluid by Valvoline.

Just a thought.

I would also check to see what Toyota used originally, hopefully not world standard or IV

 

[Bad Luck]

I would also check to see what Toyota used originally, hopefully not world standard or IV

Good catch! I second that. Hopefully they didn't use WS or IV, but if they did a transmission flush should fix it.

 

[jross20]

Good catch! I second that. Hopefully they didn't use WS or IV, but if they did a transmission flush should fix it.

Well when I had called to get a quote from my local Toyota dealer (just for giggles really) I asked them what fluid they would use they said world standard. Of course I told them that the a340f isn't designed for that fluid (or visaversa) , they responded by saying "that's all we have".

So honestly I would not trust them... Toyota is good, but the dealerships are generally crap

 

[Bad Luck]

As far as dealerships go, never assume the service advisors know what the technicians do or what parts/fluids are available or used.

 

[brillo_76]

If Toyota T4 or WS is in a 3rd gen 4 runner transmission. I believe it mostly slips. It's been documented that T4 is not compatible with our Transmission. We have TB that state not compatible at all with our transmission use dexron II or III compatible.

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[jbtvt]

I have been super busy with work ...

then I am going to drop my pan, check the screen, and magnets, refill, and do a poor mans flush. I have decided to use Valvoline MaxLife Red Cap. So I guess we will see what happens, and I will try to keep this thread updated!

We're all busy but take the extra time to do this instead, you won't regret it - Instructions: Complete 100% trans flush with filter change - ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

 

[BoomerBob]

Timmy has an excellent video on how to do this but when I first learned I used this video. I even use the same $17 pump. I use a separate battery to power it but the onboard battery will also work just fine.

YouTube

 

[LazeR]

If Toyota T4 or WS is in a 3rd gen 4 runner transmission. I believe it mostly slips. It's been documented that T4 is not compatible with our Transmission. We have TB that state not compatible at all with our transmission use dexron II or III compatible.

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Any chance you can come up with that TB? I finally got a hold of the dealer, and they said they put T-IV in when they flushed it....

 

[BoomerBob]

Any chance you can come up with that TB? I finally got a hold of the dealer, and they said they put T-IV in when they flushed it....

Sounds like you found your problem. A complete fluid swap should fix it as long as there isn't any permanent damage from the T4.

This list of trans fluids for the different years may help you convince them.

http://www.carquestprofessionals.co...F Application NON-Laminated Guide 6.10.13.pdf

 

[LazeR]

I got my labs back from Blackstone. The results are attached.

Sounds like you found your problem. A complete fluid swap should fix it as long as there isn't any permanent damage from the T4.

This list of trans fluids for the different years may help you convince them.

http://www.carquestprofessionals.co...F Application NON-Laminated Guide 6.10.13.pdf

Thank you very much! I actually called back, but slowly baited them. I had another tech answer, that sounded a lot more intelligent. He actually looked it up, and told me Dex II or Dex III which is what my dipstick says and we all know is what it requires. I then asked what would happen if T-IV got put in, and he explained all the problems and in my mind was correct (also not what I was experiencing) Then I had him lookup exactly what fluid was put in my 4Runner and it was a Dex III. So NO T-IV thankfully.


Anyway, so far no more issues. Although it still runs hotter than I would like. I have no idea how old the clutch fan is, but I am strongly thinking of running a B&M Cooler in line with my radiator. I would run it standalone (Well I would probably do a Tru Cool for standalone) but I am in Wyoming and it can get down right cold here. I just wouldn't want to run it to cold, if it gets -20 to -30 here which is does and can.

 

[brillo_76]

Great deal glad your Transmission is running smoother. This is why a lot of people are using proven dextron compatible fluids and why so many stick as close as they can dexron II or III fluids.


Now I wonder how many people out there got their transmission fluid exchanged and have T4 or WS in there.

Thank you for reporting back and feeling us informed. We greatly appreciate that.

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[BoomerBob]

Yeah, the fan clutch could be going out, so replacing it might be the ticket but if you do install the trans fluid cooler; a fluid thermostat might be perfect for your climate. I'm installing one in my 01 too because I've noticed the external cooler does keep the trans fluid a bit too cool.

Amazon.com: Derale 13011 Fluid Control Thermostat Kit: Automotive

Check out this video to see if your fan clutch is like the one on this rig.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3DitIVc1n8

 

[Dieselchessy]

Not positive on the 340 tranny but generally speaking 3rd gear is a straight through with the minimal work being done by the tranny. It’s often the coolest running gear.

I’ve run Valvoline Max Life in my 3rd gen AT’s for a bit with great results. One with north of 330k on the tranny.
You can also buy solenoid kits that are easy to install if your TC isn’t locking/unlocking properly. I’ve had luck with the internet off brand ones.

Might also drop your pan and inspect/replace your filter. There are two versions (deep and shallow sump) with differing ports. Despite what Toyota claims, they aren’t lifetime. At least check to confirm the PO’s filter work.