I've had my 2004 XJ8 for over a month now. Mechanically, one thing that I've noticed is that when I really step on the gas it emits something of a squelch or even a burp. Is this normal? Is this what some on here refer to as the transmission screech that can be fixed by adding an additive to the transmission fluid. Is this sound harmful or is it more of an annoyance?

Thanks,

Eric

 

Sounds like that is your problem.

My wife's VDP did this, made a "whoop" sound when you stepped on the gas - this is the pressure plates sticking slightly when moving from one gear to another.

I was able to buy a quart of the additive from a board member, had it put iin and have not heard the sound since.

I've attached the Jag bulletin for this...

 

Eric,
You did not state the mileage on your car but for anything over 50K you are due for a trans fluid flush.
Yep, I know Jag says 100k but the consensus, long established in these pages, is 50K. Do it. You won't be sorry.

 

It just turned 55K and I bought it at 54K. Will the fluid flush solve my problem or will the additive still need to be added to the new transmission fluid?

 

Small dog in a closet bark. One woof.

From reading many posts on this subject, I gather that if you change trans fluid using ZF lifeguard fluid, that will be sufficient as the newer fluid has the friction modifier already added.

Dealership or good Indy will know about this.

Another thought: at your mileage no real reason for pan and filter change. A good flush using cooler line method should replace a very high percentage of old brownish fluid and are ready to go for another few years.

I am going to have mine done at a Ford store that is familiar with ZF 6 speeds.
Will probably use Mercon SP fluid.

 

Yes, that is the one. Is it doing any damage to the transmission or just annoying? Is this something that should be taken care of immediately or could it wait until my next oil change?

 

No damage.
Not urgent.
I know how hard to start out and then before 2-3 shift I back off just a tad and it is quiet.
Under normal starts unto road speed I never hear it.
Fix it when you feel like it.
Shop trans fluid change pricing. Anywhere between 150 and 250 depending on what part of the world you live in.
Cheers.