I have read all the threads about using Mobil 1 ATF when changing transmission fluid on an '01 XKR. Does Mobil 1 ATF meet the specifications of Esso LT71141? I called their hot line and the Mobil representative said that it did not. If anyone has researched this question, I would like to know if it OK to use when changing ATF fluid?

 

If you have an R you do not have the 5HP24 trans. You have a different trans and the factory ATF spec for your trans is - Shell ATF 3403 M115

 

Oh, I did not realize that the Mercedes transmission took a different transmission fluid. Can the Shell ATF3403 M115 be purchased at local auto parts suppliers?

 

Valvoline Maxlife claims to meet the Shell spec for the up to 2002 XKR transmission.

 

The local Mercedes Benz dealer carries this ATF for their transmissions at $17.50/qt and the parts dealer recommends 4 quarts for each transmission fluid change. I am planning on driving to the dealer to pickup the ATF.

 

Glad you have it sorted out. Not a bad price and only need 4 qts. It isn't worth looking for a commercial alternative.

Best,

 

If you are removing the pan, get a new gasket and filter also at the Mercedes dealer. They are not too expensive. Also get a new red plastic locking tab for the fill tube.

 

Thank you WhiteXKR, I just read the fluid change procedure and realized I had not ordered this red plastic locking tab for the fill tube. Good idea, I'll be sure and ask for the part at the dealer.

 

I called MB of Ann Arbor and the correct MB ATF P/N for the 722.6 5WA580 is #001 989 21 03 10. This ATF fluid meets the Shell ATF3403 M115 specification. I found a link at Pennzoil that references all vehicles and the correct ATF type at http://www.hollonoil.com/PDF/PZMulti...Exceptions.pdf
MB of Ann Arbor quoted $17.50/quart and they have the plastic locking pin for the transmission plug. I should have ordered the filter and gasket but ordered from another parts supplier. This may help other Jaguar XKR owners who are planning on replacing their ATF, go to the MB dealer!

 

I'd like to do this for my 2003 XK8. Can anyone help me identify the correct parts to order and where to get them? I know the 2003 XK8 has a different tranny than the 2002 and earlier, is it still a Mercedes transmission?

Also, I read a thread a while back about how to add a dipstick to check the fluid level. Does this apply to the 2003+ transmissions as well?

When I do this I'll make a vid so it can be added to the FAQ thread.

 

Sam,

You have a pretty different situation with your trans. It is a ZF 6HP26. These transmissions have plastic pans with integral filters, so to do a fluid/filter change is really a fluid/filter/pan change. The 6 speed has a plastic collar (seal) around the transmission harness as it enters the box. On the 6 speeds, the plastic pan sometimes fatigues with time (50/60K miles) and leaks. The collar can leak around 60/70K miles.

The drain volume is more than the 5 speed. You'll get about 7.5 qts with a partial drain (minus the TC). You still have to do the change and correct the fill using fluid temperature @ 40deg C. Finally, on half the ones I do (older models) half the 21 the pan bolts will break coming out. ZF originally used a torx 30 bolt, then upgraded to a torx 40 which was much needed.

I can pm you more process information and my ZF parts supplier for the pan, bolts, collar and lifeguard 6 fluid if you want so I don't end up publishing a book in this thread.

 

Sam, also check over in the S-type area, there is a writeup on the fluid/fill/filter change that is very detailed. Part numbers are also in the ZF documents in the FAQ thread.

 

On my '01 XKR besides replacing the filter and gasket when changing the ATF fluid what additional parts should be replaced. I have read about the transmission electrical connector that can leak. Is this normally replaced when changing the automatic transmission fluid? Can I reuse the connector and only replace the o ring?

 

Yes, the electrical connector change is a good idea while you are in there. It is not very expensive for the assembly (I do not think they sell the o-rings alone):

http://www.rmeuropean.com/search.asp...=203-540-02-53

 

Thank you WhiteXKR. Did you end up replacing the connector from this supplier? The Jaguar part was over $67. I'll order the part from your link.

 

Jaguar puts an outrageous markup on these Mercedes sourced parts. It looks like it is also around 10 bucks from your local Mercedes dealer.

As far as RM European goes, I ordered a transmission service kit from them, but not this connector seal. No complaints. I actually did not replace my connector seal yet, it was showing no seepage, and I plan to go in again next year and do another oil change...so I figured no rush on this.

 

I recently changed the fluid on my XKR 2001 50K miles, use the Valvoline Maxlife and buy 12 qtrs as each time you flush you only get about 4 qtrs out so you need to do it 3 times. Also change the filter and electrical connector as this does leak fluid. Electrical connector is hard to get at I was lucky as I also had an O2 sensor go so had the Cat converter out on that side.

I got the parts online
12qts Valvoline Maxlife $56
Fliter $22
Electrical connector $18

 

While I visited the Mercedes Dealer, the manager carried my ATF fluid to the car and asked to see my Jaguar with the Mercedes transmission. I ended up showing the car to several MB employees, who commented on the timeless beauty of the car and how well kept the car looked. Anyway I had to laugh at how impressed they were with seeing my '01 XKR, made me feel proud.

I asked the service manager what it would cost for them to change the ATF including parts and fluid and was quoted $440.00! How is it that MB can charge less than our own Jaguar Dealer??

Then on the way home, I got up beside a blond in a XK8 convertible who waved while we drove about 80 down the highway. It was a good Jaguar day all around!

 

OK... where the heck is the transmission fill hole? The JTIS shows how to fill it, but the illustrations are as clear as mud. Do I need to remove the exhaust pipes to get to it? I've looked on both sides of the transmission and I can't even see it, much less get a hand up to where it might possibly be.

 

Hi Sam-
First off, again to avoid confusion to those new to this thread, your car has the ZF 6HP26 6 speed transmission, not the Mercedes 5 speed.

On the ZF, the fill hole is on the right side of the transmission, maybe just an inch or inch and 1/2 above the oil pan, somewhat towards the rear of the transmission. On my 2003 S-type, there is a close by exhaust pipe...if you have the same situation , you may need to grind a few mm off the short end of a standard 8mm 'L' allen wrench to fit up there. You also may need the extra leverage of a piece of pipe over the allen wrench to break it loose. Sorry, no ability to take a pix at the moment.