hey guys a quick question
i want to change my tranny fluid in my 04 XJ8-heres what i want to know-first im not a mechanic but in the older days i did many on american cars-i know there is no stick to check so id like to know if its that hard to do or should i just bring it to my guy-id like to know the better filter and fluid to use if i am goin to do it-and if so a brief detail of how to do
thanks guys
dave

 

Pretty simple just different steps than the typical American car in the past but 80% similar.

Main difference is the car have to be level when off the ground and a temperature measurement tool like infrared temperature gun etc.

 

I like the video. Curious, did you notice any difference using the mercon SP fluid?

 

Lots of info here: www.thectsc.com

 

I just had my 6 speed transmission fluid completely changed a month ago 164.000k,s on the clock was an expensive job $540 au but he changed all the fluid
I will get it serviced every 40,000 now couldn't be botherd doing it myself its pretty messy

 

I've been trying to get around to this myself for some time. I'm an avid DIY guy, but have been bogged down on the fluid to use. The Jag dealer wants way too much for the Shell M1375.4, and nobody sells the real thing in small quantities.

Dave, you finally gave me the push I needed, and Casper really helped with the video. I decided on the ZF Lifeguard 6, which seems to be the OEM fluid...or at least it comes from the people who made the tranny, so can't be far off. New pan and fluid are on the way. I'll let you know if I run into any problems...

 

I take no credit for the video because it is not mine video. The video is ReverandSam whose is a member on this board too in the XK8 section.

ZF Lifegard 6 is the correct fluid which is also what I've use on mine. Before you tackle the job make sure you also order the electrical sleeve also because it's a no brainer since the pan will be down and make sure you change it so prevent the "Oh S4it!!!" moment in the later days because the sleeve is notorious for leaking with mileage keep piling up.

Mechatronic sealing sleeve

 

Excellent tip...I've got the sleeve on the way!

 

I just had my dealer change my fluid and filter (and new seal) using parts and fluid I found online through comments on the forum. The online was at CTSC (California Transmission Service Company, or something like that). They have a kit with fluid, filter, seal, and even replacement bolts. I know I saved on the parts getting it myself as my dealer quoted about twice the price on the fluid alone. In total about $500, about half for parts and half for dealer labor, but I plan on keeping the car a long time.

 

Just an update...I changed the fluid today. This was actually the easiest tranny fluid change I've ever done. The '05 has the newer pan bolts, so there was no problem removing them. There were absolutely no obstructions to getting to or removing the pan.

The new tranny sleeve went right on, although I did not have a new o-ring for the internal electrical connector. The original looked fine, though.

I did not drain the cooler or converter, and the change took 2 ounces less than 5 qts.

For those catching up, you replace the pan, gasket, filter, and filter o-ring as an assembly on this car. It took longer to jack the car and fit stands than it did to replace the pan. I won't dread it next time.

 

with fluid brand you used ZF or Ford Mercon?

 

ZF lifeguard 6...which appears to be the factory installed fluid. I ordered from Autohauz and everything showed up at my front door. The dealers have the Shell spec fluid, but at $40+ per liter.

 

Question regarding when to change the ZF6 oil if the car hasn't made many miles: mine is of 2004 but has only run 48.000 km.
Is it worth changing the oil now (I think I've read somewhere that you should consider changing oil at 60k miles or 10 yrs)?

 

Thanks!

 

Hi Serge- yes it should be changed now, I think ZF have said after 8 years.

I have all the bits to change mine 62,000 miles and 10 years old.

I have Millers ATF DM which has been used successfully in the UK

and bits from Bristol Transmissions in the UK.