So, I got a 94 ranger xlt with the five speed transmission, the Mazda md50r1 tranny. Owners manual calls for mercon auto transmission fluid and I was wondering what you all use.... I was wanting too put valvoline maxlife dex/merc but don't know how it will perform. If anyone has any suggestions that don't cost an arm and a leg please speak up. Never heard of a manual tranny using atf but hey, learn something new everyday!

 

Bump

 

A lot of Manual trans do take ATF. It was odd the first time I changed out fluids in a Manual and added ATF. I'd run Motorcraft Mercon V if money is tight. Motorcraft fluids are usually lighter on the wallet, but are made by very reputable brands. For instance last time I checked Motorcraft oil is re-branded Kendall oil, and the full synthetic is re-branded Kendall Racing.

 

A cool trick I learned is to run 2qts standard ATF fluid and 1qt Lucas synthetic

Helped smooth out my sticky shifts from 2 to 3 gear.

 

Maxlife works fine, so long as your out of warranty yadda yadda yadda. I used it in my 94xlt and it smoothed out my rough shifting into first gear. Mercon or mercon v is recommended if I remember right.

 

i run pennzoil syncromesh fluid, works fine, had it in there for a few years now, even in winter it shifts good. kinda expensive, i think 7-9 bucks a qt.