The TH350, commonly referred to as the Turbo 350 gearbox, is a well-known and dependable automatic gearbox that has been widely employed in a variety of cars throughout the years. The selection of the proper gearbox fluid is a crucial component in preserving the durability and optimum performance of this gearbox. This page seeks to give a thorough overview of the several varieties of Turbo 350 gearbox fluid, as well as those fluids’ properties and the significance of making the right fluid choice.
Understanding Turbo 350 Transmission:
A three-speed automatic gearbox called the Turbo 350 was created by General Motors. It was first made available in the 1960s and has since grown to be a popular option for many other applications, including trucks, muscle cars, and other high-performance vehicles. The TH350 has established itself as a trustworthy workhorse in the automobile industry thanks to its dependability and simplicity.
Importance of Transmission Fluid:
With an automated gearbox like the Turbo 350, gearbox fluid is essential to its proper operation. It serves as a hydraulic conduit for the gearbox’s numerous moving parts to be lubricated. It also serves as a means of power transmission from the engine to the transmission. By removing heat created during operation, gearbox fluid also aids in keeping the gearbox cool.
Choosing the Right Transmission Fluid:
It is crucial to choose the right gearbox fluid for your Turbo 350 to guarantee optimum performance and lifespan. Here are the main aspects to consider while selecting the appropriate fluid type:
- Fluid Type: Dexron transmission fluid is often needed for 350 turbo gearboxes. Automatic gearbox fluid (ATF) is sold under the Dexron brand, which was created by General Motors. Dexron fluids have been available in a variety of forms throughout the years (such as Dexron II, III, and VI), each with better characteristics and compatibility with certain transmissions.
- Fluid Compatibility: Ensure that the gearbox fluid you select complies with the specifications of the Turbo 350 gearbox. Using an incompatible lubricant can cause poor shifting, more wear and tear, and even gearbox damage.
- Viscosity: The thickness or resistance to flow of the gearbox fluid is known as its viscosity. Use the proper fluid viscosity for your Turbo 350 as directed by the manufacturer. Poor hydraulic performance might result in uneven shifting and excessive wear if the viscosity is off.
- Synthetic vs. Conventional: Synthetic gearbox fluids offer improved performance, greater temperature resistance, and longer service intervals while conventional ATF is suited for most applications. To establish if synthetic ATF is appropriate for your Turbo 350, it is crucial to pay attention to manufacturer instructions.
- Brand Recommendations: When selecting gearbox fluid, go with trusted brands. Established brands are more likely to adhere to requirements and deliver a constant level of quality.
Types of Transmission Fluid:
The Dexron/Mercon ATF and Type F ATF gearbox fluids are the two primary varieties that may be utilized in the Turbo 350 gearbox.
- Dexron/Mercon ATF: It is a typical practice to employ this adaptable automatic gearbox fluid in a variety of distinct types of automobiles. Ford and General Motors each have their own specs, Dexron and Mercon. As a result of its compatibility and performance qualities, Dexron gearbox fluid continues to be a preferred option for the Turbo 350 gearbox, which was first built to utilize it.
- Type F ATF: Even though this kind of gearbox fluid is less popular today, it was commonly utilized in earlier cars, notably those made by Ford. Dexron/Mercon ATF and Type F ATF have different friction characteristics, and some enthusiasts think Type F ATF can perform better and deliver harder shifts in particular situations. It is crucial to remember that utilizing Type F ATF in a Turbo 350 can require making changes to the transmission’s internal parts.
Recommended Transmission Fluid Types:
It is particularly important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when choosing gearbox fluid for your Turbo 350. For the Turbo 350, the following types of gearbox fluid are frequently advised:
- Dexron III/Mercon: Older transmissions like the Turbo 350 frequently used the Dexron III and Mercon ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) standards. They have strong friction, heat stability, and oxidation resistance qualities. Dexron III is an older standard, though, and has mostly been replaced by more recent Dexron formulas, which is something to keep in mind.
- Dexron VI: In comparison to its predecessors, Dexron VI is a more recent ATF standard that provides better performance and protection. It is suitable for older gearboxes like the Turbo 350 because it has improved heat stability, oxidation resistance, and friction qualities.
- Synthetic ATF: In terms of temperature resistance, oxidation stability, and general durability, synthetic ATF performs better than natural ATF. You may increase the lifespan of your Turbo 350 gearbox and ensure smoother operation by using a high-quality synthetic ATF.
- Compatibility: It is crucial to select a gearbox fluid that works with the components of your Turbo 350 gearbox. To safeguard key components, various transmissions can need fluids with certain additives. Compatibility can be increased by consulting the owner’s handbook or getting guidance from a qualified mechanic.
Benefits of Using the Recommended Fluid Type:
- Enhanced Performance: The entire performance of your car will be preserved if you use the Dexron ATF that the manufacturer recommends.
- Improved Longevity: The right gearbox fluid’s effective lubrication and cooling assist the gearbox components last longer and lower the danger of early wear.
- Heat Resistance: Dexron ATF is designed to endure elevated temperatures, avoiding fluid breakdown, and preserving optimum gearbox operation even under taxing circumstances.
- Seal Protection: The proper gearbox fluid aids in maintaining the quality of gaskets and seals, preventing leaks, and guaranteeing a tight seal to maintain fluid pressure.
Transmission Fluid Change Intervals:
To keep your Turbo 350 gearbox in decent shape, routine gearbox fluid replacements are necessary. Transmission fluid can deteriorate, gather particles, and lose its efficacy over time. Depending on driving circumstances and the fluid type used, it is often advised to change the gearbox fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (about 96560.64 km).
Steps to Replace Transmission Fluid:
- Assemble the required equipment and supplies, such as the proper gearbox fluid, a funnel, a drain pan and safety gear.
- Raising and supporting the car safely will give you access to the gearbox pan.
- Place the drain pan underneath the gearbox pan and gradually remove the nuts by working your way around the bolts starting at one corner.
- Gently lower the pan once the bolts have been taken out to let the old fluid drain out.
- Remove any debris and residue from the gearbox pan, magnet, and gasket by carefully cleaning them.
- Reattach the pan using the proper torque requirements for the bolts after replacing the gasket.
- Locate the dipstick for the gearbox fluid, add the necessary amount of fluid using a funnel and use the dipstick to monitor the level as you go.
- To circulate the fresh fluid, turn on the engine and let it run for a few minutes while shifting through all the gears.
- Recheck the fluid level and make any necessary adjustments.
Importance of Using the Right Fluid:
The health of your Turbo 350 gearbox depends on using the right kind of gearbox fluid. Among its many uses are lubrication, cooling, and the creation of hydraulic pressure. The incorrect fluid choice can harm the gearbox, make it difficult to shift, and cause more wear and tear. To choose the proper gearbox fluid for your Turbo 350, it is vital to study the owner’s handbook for your car or to speak with an experienced repair.
Maintenance Tips:
Using the appropriate fluid is only one aspect of maintaining your Turbo 350 gearbox properly. The following are important advice:
- Regular Fluid Checks: Make sure the level of your gearbox fluid is correct by checking it frequently. Premature wear and overheating might result from low fluid levels.
- Fluid Changes: Observe the manufacturer’s advised intervals for fluid changes. Transmission fluid can deteriorate with time, which might result in damage and decreased performance. Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (about 96560.64 km), it is normally advised to change the fluid and filter.
- Quality Matters: Always use trustworthy brand name gearbox fluid. Cheap or inferior fluids could not offer the required performance and protection.
- Cooling: The Turbo 350 gearbox may produce a lot of heat, especially under stressful circumstances. To aid in maintaining ideal operating temperatures, think about including an auxiliary gearbox cooler.
- Driving Habits: Avoid rash driving and rapid changes since they might cause the transmission’s parts to wear out faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What type of gearbox fluid is used by a Turbo 350?
Dexron ATF (Automatic gearbox Fluid) is used in the Turbo 350 gearbox. Dexron II or Dexron III are advised for the majority of models created after the mid-1970s.
Can dexron VI be used in a TH350?
Dexron VI may be utilized in a TH350 gearbox, providing better compatibility and performance.
What distinguishes ATF and DCT fluid from one another?
ATF is designed for conventional automatic gearboxes and emphasizes friction management and seamless shifting. Dual clutch transmissions (DCTs) are designed to have accurate friction, shear stability, and quick gear changes. The performance and lifetime of each gearbox depend on the choice of fluid.
How do you define ATF type gearbox fluid?
An exclusive lubricant for automatic transmissions is called ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). It has many varieties made specifically for various gearbox designs and performance requirements that lubricate, cool, and enable smooth shifts.
Conclusion:
Many vintage and contemporary cars and trucks use the dependable and tough Turbo 350 gearbox. To keep your gearbox in undamaged shape, it is crucial to use the right kind of gearbox fluid and adhere to recommended maintenance procedures. Your Turbo 350 gearbox will last a long time and operate at its best if you do routine fluid checks, fluid changes and cautious driving. It is always an innovative idea to speak with an experienced technician or automotive specialist if you are unclear about the type of gearbox fluid to use or how to maintain your gearbox.
