OLD 904, ADVICE NEEDED!

[MOPARENT]

ok, so I needed a trans for a non b-body project, found a tranny online at a nearby shop, seller runs a garage that apparently doesn't fix anything newer than a 78, has trailers stuffed with trannys and t case, rears etc...He pulls a 904 from one of the trailers, swears up and down it works, pink fluid, complete with converter, specs out to a 71 904 318 trans, covered in grime, dirt and oil...My questions are, once I replace the outside seals, should I adjust the bands and what fluid should I use in a tranny that has 100k plus and hasn't seen the light of day in 20 years?

 

[The Shoe]

ATF+4 is a good upgrade, but merc 3 would be just fine as well. Don't forget a new filter.

 

[dvw]

Walmart Dexron will work fine. I'd adjust the K/D band, replace the pump seal and install a new filter. No need for anything special.
Doug

 

[wyrmrider]

Guys
Dexron III is no longer monitored / licensed by GM
I doubt that you can even find a major brand labeled Dexron III
most likely some made up name like DIII or DEX/MERC or "use where DEXIII is specified" or other such weasel words
Dex III has a relatively short use life compared to later formulations
Do not use DEX VI which is a Synthetic II and III blend for cost reasons- you can do better
ATF+4 really is a superior fluid and it is fully monitored by Chrysler as to Base Stock and Additives- you know what you are getting
Actually you can use almost anything in a non lock up TF- unless really cold or really hot but if you want it to last...
THE flat out best ATF you can get right now is CITGO Quatrosyn Fully group IV-V Synthetic base stocks are so good that long chain polymers do not have to be added- so it does not "shear down" If you are running a snow plow or an ambulance and have to start in cold weather its the one to use ( or Allison 295 which is not quite so good)
Or if you are towing, or hot weather or want to fill and forget (well change the filter every so often but the fluid will be fine)

 

[YY1]

wal mart has ATF +4

 

[dvw]

Here's a pic of the frictions and band from my 9.0@3350lb car. Aprox 250 passes when checked using Walmart Dexron. It's apart for inspection now at 350 passes. They look exactly the same.
Doug

 

[wyrmrider]

Dex can work fine in a drag car especially with alto clutches
If you use it in an on the road vehicle, especially severe service change regularly - or use a better fluid
look for the ALLISON 386 spec if your want to be sure you have the real thing also the "H" version