What is the correct transmission fluid to use in the 2000 XK8 (non-supercharged)? Is this fluid available at Auto Parts Stores like Pep Boys, Autozone, etc? What is the correct procedure for adding this fluid?

 

Often and long discussion issue. ZF, which manufactured the transmission specificied Esso LT 71141 spec fluid. That sells for under $20 per liter at a VW dealer, under $50 at a Jaguar dealer.

There are now several other ATF fluids that claim to meet the spec.

See the several posts under 'Transmissions' on the FAQ sticky above for much more information. You will also find information on drain/refill there. That is not nearly as complicated as it seems from reading the process.

I chose Castrol Import ATF at about $4 on sale.

 

Hello Testpoint,

where did you buy that castrol ATF fluid ?

greetings

 

Advance Auto Parts.

I am signed up for email notices from them and O'Reilly on sales. With several cars and bikes to keep up I seize good deals when they come along.

Tight Wad Tom

 

We use this in all 3 of our shops:

[http://www.motorcarsltd.com/atf.red.html

 

Yep... Black Dog. And my indy wants to pump flush using Wolf's Head. I checked them out w/ ZF and its an authorized replacement. And you thought cats and dogs don't mix? Must be something canine about the Jaguar's trans.

Sure you want an ATF that is spec'd to the trans you use. However, that distinction is the purview of the trans manufacturer, not the carmaker. ZF makes the same basic trans for a number of different cars, and yet each carmaker claims providence to specifying only their ATF is OK to use. I call BS. Same as the "lifetime fill" claim. Who's the lifetime? The trans or your warranty?

I think the issue way overblown. On some forums these threads go on and on for months. There is an issue with not mixing two incompatible types of fluids, however, if you do a complete flush (incl torque converter) the chances of mixing the old and new are significantly reduced.

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Now the procedure for adding or changing the fluid is another story. You need to do some searching on this, or other forums, because the process involves temperature of the fluid, running the trans through the gears to fill the all the passageways and valve bodies, etc. Its way too long for me to write up here for you. Also you should replace filter (and seal) if you drop pan. .... and you still haven't touched one third volume of the fluid which remains in the torque converter. I did my BMW in my garage... For the Jag I am going to the shop... its easier and better.

gordo