2004 F150 Transfer Case: XL-12 or Redline D4 ATF?

[HB1244]

Hey Guys,

I registered for this forum after lurking for years because I need some advice from people who know their lubricants!

I have a 2004 F150 4x4 (New Body Style)and I'm changing the transfer case fluid at 67k.

I know that the original fill was Mercon ATF, which seems to be no longer available, and Mercon V is the new ATF. I also know that Ford states that Mercon V should not be used in transfer cases. Everyone knows that warning is printed on many Mercon V ATF bottles as well.

Ford has their XL-12 Transfer Case Fluid, which I've read on this forum is basically straight Mercon ATF, and this is the fluid that Ford recommends.

I'm sure that Ford's XL-12 is straight dinosaur oil, and even though it's what is recommended, I'd like something with a little more protection because I run all Redline fluids in my truck. My question is: Can I fill the transfer case with Redline D4 ATF or would that cause a problem?

I couldn't seem to find a straight answer on that searching the heck out of this forum and many others. I'm just looking for something a little better than the OEM fluid that won't "ruin" the transfer case. Also, some people have said that Mobil 1 makes a Mercon (not Mercon V) fluid, but I can't seem to find that as an alternative either. I still have no idea why Mercon V isn't spec'd for transfer cases either, that doesn't really make sense.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Donald]

Look on the Amsoil website for your vehicle. I took a quick look, not knowing your engine and they list their synthetic multi vehicle ATF for the TC. I have that in the TC for my Jeep and Suburban. I did not think there was a lot of complexity in the transfer case, just a couple of gears and a big chain.

 

[Rand]

D4 is good. or you can buy basic DEX/MERC anywhere

 

[hate2work]

One of the best sources of info about oil for specific applications is Dave over at Red Line. Many of us have talked with him and he always gives a straight answer. He will tell you if RL has a product that will work for you or not. (800) 624-7958

 

[abycat]

Originally Posted By: HB1244
Hey Guys,

I registered for this forum after lurking for years because I need some advice from people who know their lubricants!

I have a 2004 F150 4x4 (New Body Style)and I'm changing the transfer case fluid at 67k.

I know that the original fill was Mercon ATF, which seems to be no longer available, and Mercon V is the new ATF. I also know that Ford states that Mercon V should not be used in transfer cases. Everyone knows that warning is printed on many Mercon V ATF bottles as well.

Ford has their XL-12 Transfer Case Fluid, which I've read on this forum is basically straight Mercon ATF, and this is the fluid that Ford recommends.

I'm sure that Ford's XL-12 is straight dinosaur oil, and even though it's what is recommended, I'd like something with a little more protection because I run all Redline fluids in my truck. My question is: Can I fill the transfer case with Redline D4 ATF or would that cause a problem?

I couldn't seem to find a straight answer on that searching the heck out of this forum and many others. I'm just looking for something a little better than the OEM fluid that won't "ruin" the transfer case. Also, some people have said that Mobil 1 makes a Mercon (not Mercon V) fluid, but I can't seem to find that as an alternative either. I still have no idea why Mercon V isn't spec'd for transfer cases either, that doesn't really make sense.

Thanks in advance!


I disagree in the merc v being bunk for t-cases. I run merc v in my 94. You have to run merc v cause it is the only merc produced right now besides the one special kind. it also is backward compatable with anything that uses merc. i have been running it in my t-case for a few months now and works good for me. I think it was 05 when the last bottle of the previous merc was made. im running mobil super multi vehicle atf in my t-case and transmission. I think you should phone your local ford and see what they say.

 

[chubbs1]

Originally Posted By: hate2work

One of the best sources of info about oil for specific applications is Dave over at Red Line. Many of us have talked with him and he always gives a straight answer. He will tell you if RL has a product that will work for you or not. (800) 624-7958


+1 This is your vehicle and important to you. Dave will give it to you straight. The Ford Fluid (XL-12) will work fine as well. Call Dave though, he gets these questions all the time.

 

[HB1244]

I called Dave at Red Line, and he said that their D4 ATF was the way to go, so I drained it and filled it up with 2 quarts tonight.

Thanks for the advice!