This is a heck of a time to ask as I just dropped the pan to change fluid.Is there any problem using Dextron III trans. fluid in a 518 trans.I also have a fan assisted cooler in line if that makes a difference. Al

 

I hope someone will correct me if I'm wrong but I'm almost positive that Dextron III is what's called for in your tranny.

 

It is supposed to run Chrysler type 7176 fluid. Autozone stocks it here. If not NAPA sells Lubeguard (black bottle) that has the additives needed to make the dexron III work.

Aaron

 

I don't know if this will help you but I checked the owners manual in my 2000 and it said to use ATF+3 or AT+3 Type 7176. Don't know if it's the same animal or not. You might have already checked this, but on my 1997 the fluid requirement is on the dipstick.

 

I don't know about the older autos, but from what I have read, if you use Dexron ATF in your newer Dodge tranny's, you can kiss them goodbye....the new ones require Mopar ATF+4 ONLY.

 

Most of all the 1st gens are ATF+3 fluid....

All of the 2nd and 3rd Gens are ATF+4 (dealer item at least in Idaho)...

Mom's truck is the same thing... ATF+3...

 

Not all 2nds call for +4, it wasn't even introduced until after 2000.

I ran Dexron III plus Lube-Gard for 212k trouble free miles on my stock auto before going with a Suncoast tranny, still running Dexron plus LG at Suncoast's recommendation for the last 27k.
Call any of the diesel tranny gurus, they will tell you Dexron is fine.
Save your money use Dexron, AFT+3 is a Chrysler scam, but if your tranny calls for +4 you should stick with it.

 

I use the ATF+3 and add the lubegard-works for me! 218K-I even add some 30wt motor oil to keep the temps down!

 

Last change on my 2nd generation stock tranny got dex III (complete 17 quart flush). Can't tell a bit of difference in how it shifts, feels or whatever. Temp runs about 10 degrees cooler than the atf +3. Kevin