I have 2000 (210k miles) and 1999 (340k miles) LS400s. Always used any type of transmission fluid marked acceptable for T-IV. I'm also very familiar with the dance of getting the fluid level just right on these cars. Never any slippage. I do a drain and fill at every oil change.

Recently I splurged and used genuine T-IV (drain and fill) and BOTH cars had pump whine. I was doubly and triply sure the fluid level was correct. Makes me crazy. Some Lucas Oil transmission snake oil helped a bit but not completely.


Rich

 

Is type IV 100% synthetic? (The word synthetic emblazoned on the package does not necessarily imply it is 100%)

The AFW+ is advertised as synthetic. Is it 100% synthetic content?

The data on the type IV and AFW+ provides little information as to why AFW+ is an improvement over T-IV ..besides the pour point being lower by a few degrees Centigrade...there appear to be gaps in information to more fully understand benefits.

What do viscosity numbers tell us...(they appear similar) Are higher or lower numbers better....and at what respective temperatures are higher or lower viscosity better?

What additives in each?

 

Cleaned out some of that exchange. We're on the same side to provide the best care we can for these cars. The technology changes so let's keep it pleasant when presenting the info and views.

 

Aisin advertises ATF AFW+ as replacement for Toyota ATF T-IV.....and TYpe WS.

Is ATF AFW+ 100 % synthetic??

Can AFW+ be intermixed incrementally with Type IV. (3-quart trans pan drain and fill vs system flush and refill)

Anyone.who can attest to whether AFW+ presents improved driveability; cold start and, or, operating temperature shifting characteristics?

Shared this forum posting string to.Aisin Aftermarket in California and await comment.

AFW+ is not familiar to Aisin, Toyota or Lexus Stateside...

Aisin exists globally, so perhaps ClubLexus membership in U.K. Australia, or Japan can solicit feedback locally.

Thanks.

 

http://bitog.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/4944493/1

 

Is there another link containing information on Aisin AFW+?

 

https://www.exedy.com.au/assets/file..._Datasheet.pdf

 

that fluid also covers a variety of cars...not specific to any one vehicle,meaning..base oil..friction modifiers and additives to make it acceptable for use...much like maxlife.

 

Trans fluid is at the add notch when hot and engine running at normal temp. How much should it take to fill to proper level?

 

Make sure you drive it for 15-20 miles, stop, shift through each gear (hesitating for 2-3 seconds between each selection), put in park, set park brake, wait 2-3 minutes, pull out dip stick, wipe off, reinsert, wait a few seconds, pull out the dip stick again and observe level. If it is at the add, I believe it takes a quart to bring up to the full hot mark, but I am not 100 percent positive on that. I would add a 1/2 quart, shift through the gears again and recheck.

 

Thanks Fit1too. I had run a couple of errands this morning when I checked the fluid level. I will add a little at a time until it shows full. I'll run back out and pick up some Type T IV fluid.

 

Glad to help. You may have to stop by a dealer to get a quart. I got mine on Amazon, which took 2 days (free shipping with Prime). I purchased two 6 packs, but I did a several drain and refills.

 

How many quarts would be appropriate for a replacement of fluid if your changing a solenoid in your transmission?

 

At least 2 quarts will come out. I remember reading that if left overnight, 2 ½ to 3 quarts may come out. I would use a large rectangle catch pan and measure what comes out. This may be a little tricky depending on how high you raise the car up and how much room you have when you take the solenoid out. If the valve body must be removed, more fluid may come out. I’ve never done anything to a LS400 transmission other than a fluid change. I changed shift accumulators on a Lincoln Mark VIII and when the valve body was removed a little more fluid came out.

 

If you are doing the solenoid, make sure to replace the transmission filter/strainer as well. Chances are, if you're doing the lockup solenoid, the torque converter was probably wearing a bit and some clutch material is clogging the filter screen. My pump was whining due to the filter being clogged because I had a lockup solenoid fail on me. A new filter is about $20 at Napa and comes with a gasket.