I know it's been said over and over to use Dex/merc lll. I will be completely rebuilding an aw4 transmission very soon; replacing torque converter, precision rebuild kit, transgo programmable shift kit, adding an oil cooler and trans temp gauge. Would it be safe to run a newer atf? I cannot find the older dex/merc lll anywhere.

 

Don't look just anywhere, look everywhere:
chinaMart
Vatozone
Oreillys
NAPA
Advance Auto...


Cheap stuff works fine too

 

Unless you're replacing all the soft parts, stick with the fluid the transmission has previously run. +4 apparently works fine in a new transmission. Not in one that's broken in on Dex/Merc.

 

Soft parts? Would those parts be part of a $300 rebuild kit? And/or shift kit?

 

Soft parts = clutches, bands, seals, bushings, gaskets, etc. I can't tell what's in your rebuild kit. Shift kit is normally revised valve body parts.
A 100% certain way to avoid trouble is to simply use Dex/Merc fluid. There is no downside to using it instead of +4.
If there's an Autozone/Oreilly/Napa in your area, they stock (or can get) it.

 

Don't screw with anything but Dex/Merc.

 

The proper fluid is just to easy to find.....use it and the next owner will thank you.

 

Hopefully that will be my daughter 13 years from now

 

All the more reason to use the correct fluid.

 

Dexron VI ("6" not "4") is more thermally stable than Dexron III. Its also licensed by GM and is 99% the same everywhere, whereas Dex II/III generics are whatever fluid plus beet juice for color.

 

Also, Dexron IV is full synthetic and expensive in comparison.

 

IS CASTROL DEX/ MERCON GOOD? SAYS MEETS REQUIREMENTS FOR 3, ,2 AND 2,E. COULDN'T FIND ROMAN NUMERALS.

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Sure.

 

turbo xj and cruiser 54 among others are right on, chinamart valvoline dex 3 mercon 17$ for 4 qt. container just bought it for drain and fill

 

Mobil 1 makes a fully synthetic dex/merc that I've been eyeing for my Jeep.