Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Hey what kind of fluid is good for my 55 pat. I am ready to put the pan back on and couldnt find anything on the forum..could be a brain fart.

I think many have recommend Type-F.

We really need to put together a Recommended Modern fluid FAQ which list a couple of options for Tranny and Engine oils as well as gear, diff, steering box and other fluids. I know there will always be a few that recommend something different, but I think a general set of recommendation would do well to help folks out. Kind of a FAQ that list perhaps 2 or 3 different recommended engine oils and when to use each one. Non-rebuilt original motor use this one, fresh rebuild use this one, etc. Just brain storming here.

I think you could go nutz trying to cover all fluids for all Series/Models in one FAQ post.

Let me try something just for Ultramatic fluid:

packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?topic_id=3267&forum=14

...and I'll refine it when I have time to do a little more research.

I hope others will step up to the plate for other specific fluids and applications.

B&M Trick Shift is the only fluid I'd recommend using in an Ultramatic, after having tried them all with less than satisfactory results. The Trick Shift really helped out the shifting quality too, they shift a lot firmer than they do with other kinds of fluids. It doesn't matter if it's rebuilt or not, that's the only fluid I'd recommend using in an Ultramatic.

I've read that B&M Trick Shift is nothing more than Type F with dye and a friction-modifying additive.

I've read that too, but it works and I stand by it.

And I stand by Eric's standing by it. Not only did it cure the slipping direct-drive clutch in my Twin-Ultramatic but, as a last resort before the transmission shop, I drained the fluid (which had been replaced yearly) in a 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis and replaced it with B&M Trick Shift. Lo and behold, the torque converter - which wouldn't stay locked into overdrive (at 73,000 miles) - fixed itself and STAYED fixed. It MAY only be Type F with friction modifiers - BUT IT WORKS.

B&M Trick Shift is now duly noted in the FAQ for Ultramatic fluid.

Later, I will add links to that same FAQ post, pointing the reader to relevant past discussions on this site to help them make up their own mind.

Reattached the sheet metal stop as suggested and everything is back together. Reverse is working and she shifted fine in high range but was cranky in low range drive. Drove nicely back up to the paint shop where she exhibited her evil side Wednesday. Front fenders and hood now touched up where they left a few spots the first time around.

Reverse is great but she is shifting hard again and thought that I would drain the fluid one more time. After draining overnight was only able to drain out about 6 quarts. How do you drain the entire 11 quarts from the transmission?