python

iTrader: (4)

valvoline part number VV324 maxlife meets the type 4 specs as well.

Lexozz

It meets T-IV specs also, just curious to know the difference!

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

there's a difference between meeting the specs and being made to the spec. i tend to not like using most mult-vehicle ATFs.

something to be said about their jack of all trades, master of none approach.

i'll stick to normal toyota T-iv/3309 spec fluid.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Ok...I don't venture out much to see what is available. I've not been one to mix fluids either. Not to say it won't work though. If this is a short term car...no big deal for you. The next guy may have the difficulties. For me, I tend to keep them as long as possible so the confidence in using the factory stuff eases my mind.

Must be getting older and conservative.

Husker1

atoyot,

Good to hear your having improvements with your Lexus.

Thanks for sharing your experiences so that someone else may benefit from it, for that is what a forum is really all about!

python

iTrader: (4)

http://www.valvoline.com/products/br...ssion-fluid/37
click on the "specs" tab
i think valvoline has a little more knowledge about fluids than anyone here,plus they wouldnt recommend it and have it cause damage to vehicles.

7schulz

I did the drain and fill with mine and didn't notice any difference, granted my car was over maintained before I got it but when I did it in my wifes Santa Fe is was night and day difference but the drain and refill on hers is like 5qts not 2 like ours.

atoyot

i can understand the caution with the specs. But just like the Toyota red antifreeze debate, when it was first introduced, it was in fact superior to what was being offered. Now, there are many other options that exceed the Toyota red. I know you should never mix the red and other brand antifreeze, but a full flush of the red and replacement of the other should be fine. This has been my experience with toyota land cruisers that have over 250,000 miles on them and still going strong.

The PO of my vehicle had flushed the Toyota Tranny fluid with the M1 synthetic. I just did a drain and refill of the M1 synthetic. I feel comfortable leaving it this way, but that is just my opinion and can respect others thoughts. So far, i'm very pleased with the ride results.

On another note, i am noticing that my power steering fluid is really getting cooked! Any thoughts on maybe putting a power steering cooler in line?

7schulz

Ah LC and LS owners we must get the same info. My LC gets the same treatment. M1 Syn ATF in the Trannies and M1 0w-40 in the engine.

blunden

I changed my transmission fluid recently, but it took 10 litres. Did you only change what was in the pan?

7schulz

Yea drain and fill.

KJLegend

Where might be the best place to buy this toyota T-iv/3309 spec fluid??

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

any lexus/toyota dealership, toyota tends to have it cheaper, just ask for some t-iv (t-4) transmission fluid.

KJLegend

Thanks for the info.

Can I just drain it out? Or do I have to drop the pan completely?

7schulz

There is a drain plug.
http://www.lexls.com/tutorials/trans...anschange.html