Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Happy Holidays All,

I've been using the Dexron Mercon III tranny fluid in my '56 and it seems I get some slippage and noise after driving for a period of time. I tried the Lucas additive, but it didn't seem to help much.

Has anyone had luck with other types?
Thanks

I and several others use the Ford type F with good results as it is supposed to be the most like the original type A. Don't know if still easily available or how it compares to the newer replacement stuff though since I haven't had to do anything to my trans in years other than add a bit now and then.

Type F is readily available, I just bought a case of Castrol Type F. Type FA, used on some Jags and Saabs in the 90s is another alternative. Many people who have changed over to F or FA have noted that it took several hundred miles to elimnate the groans and grunts. The original fluid (Type A) had no friction modifiers and some consider that the transmission "snake oils" that contain them to actually be detrimental to transmission life. Lot's of different opinions and experiences on this topic. As bought my 56 had an occasional groan of the direct drive clutch and I replaced the fluid with Type F and all's been well since.

B&M TrickShift is the best choice, IMHO. A little pricey, but it stops the slipping.

Dunno without actual chemical analysis, but I was under the impression that B&M Trickshift ATF was nothing more than relabeled and overpriced Type F. When Type F is used in a GM trans it results in harsher shifts, hence the "performance upgrade"

To the rumor that TrickShift is just blue Type F I have to say bullshit. I've tried them both on several different auto transmissions and the difference in the TrickShift over the Type F is not a lie. It IS better.