A reader asks: A shop did some work on my Harley-Davidson and filled my primary with synthetic oil. I have always used regular H-D oil. Can I drain it and replace with regular oil? Will this cause any problems?
Our answer: You can safely drain the synthetic oil and go back to conventional oil (but read all the way down before you do). There will not be any problems whatsoever. Synthetic and conventional oil can be substituted back and forth without any compatibly issues or mechanical risks. This holds true for engine, primary chain case or transmission oils.
However, we suggest that you give the synthetic oil a try before draining it. You will likely notice that it is easier to find neutral. It is also likely that you will experience smoother clutch performance and cooler primary temperatures.
We are huge advocates of synthetics oils in Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Our customer feedback tells us about performance boosts in every imaginable category. We offer two synthetic options for Harley-Davidson primary chain cases. They are AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic Primary Fluid or AMSOIL V-Twin Synthetic 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil. There is no wrong answer between the two products. Each offers identical performance and wear protection. Some like the idea of a dedicated primary fluid, while others like the idea of keeping just the 20W-50 on hand for engine, primary and transmission.
In conclusion, give the synthetic fluid a chance and determine if you experience any improvements. You can go back to conventional oil at any time in the future.
A common question is whether synthetic ATF can be used in classic cars? Yes, synthetic automatic transmission fluid is certainly compatible with older transmissions. It can provide a nice performance and protection upgrade.
Synthetic ATF will have similar viscosity and frictional properties to conventional ATF. Make sure to purchase an ATF meeting the correct specification for your transmission (more on that below).
The additive package of modern ATF (whether conventional or synthetic) will be significant upgrade over previous generations of ATF.
Factors To Consider Before Changing Automatic Transmission Fluid In Older Cars
When changing ATF in any transmission, consider if the transmission may have significant deposits. If the transmission fluid hasn’t been changed in several years, performing a flush would be a good idea. We offer the superb AMSOIL Engine and Transmission Flush for this very task.
Is the transmission original or rebuilt? Is it functioning properly?
Are the seals in good shape? Should any leaky seals be replaced at this point?
Replace the pan gasket and transmission filter during this process.
Does Synthetic ATF Cause Leaks?
This is a common misconception. Synthetic ATF does not cause leaks. In fact, good synthetics like AMSOIL will condition seals and extend their lifespan.
Conventional ATF may have a thicker viscosity in cooler temperatures. Synthetic ATF has a fairly consistent viscosity across the temperature spectrum. This difference could potentially lead to more drips on the garage floor through leaky seals. Therefore, this factor is what could fuel the “synthetic ATF causes leaks” myth.
In conclusion, modern synthetic ATF products are perfectly compatible with mechanically sound older transmissions. In fact, they can improve transmission performance and maximize wear protection.
If you are looking for an automatic transmission fluid for that classic car or truck, finding the correct ATF product may be confusing. Modern ATF labels likely do not list long-obsolete ATF specifications. But we can help. We carry a selection of ATF products that meet most all vintage ATF specifications for General Motors, Ford and Chrysler automatic transmissions. Contact us for pricing using the form on this page.
In this article, we will list obsolete ATF specifications from Chrysler, Ford and General Motors cars from the early 1950’s to the late 1990’s. We will also show the release year for each ATF spec along with a high-quality AMSOIL ATF replacement option that meets these older specs.
AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF– This is AMSOIL’s elite ATF formula. Designed to provide world-class heat, deposit and wear resistance. Offers smooth shifts and long-service life. Meets numerous vintage specs from Ford, Chrysler and GM.
AMSOIL OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF– Meets the same Ford, Chrysler and GM specifications as Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF at a lower price point. Delivers an upgrade in performance and protection over regular ATF products.
AMSOIL Super Shift Synthetic Racing Transmission Fluid– Designed for Ford Type “F” applications. Provides exceptional wear protection and heat-fighting capabilities. Delivers the correct frictional properties for Ford transmissions that require Type “F” ATF.
Ford took a different path than through the decades. The Ford Type “F” spec was introduced in 1967. Eventually Ford made the Type “F” specification the standard for most of their automatic transmissions backward to 1953 and up to 1979. The only exception being transmissions requiring the Ford Type “CJ” specification. Type “CJ” was used was in the mid-to-late 1970s and it does not use Type “F”. Ford Type “F” replaces Ford Type A (M2C33-A), Type “B” (M2C33-B), Ford Type “D” (M2C33-D) and Type “G” (M2C33-G).
Many ATF’s during the 1960’s and 1970’s had similar properties to GM Dexron. Ford Type “F” differed in that it did not contain friction modifiers. Therefore, this formula allowed shifting clutches to engage quickly.
Release Year
Ford ATF Specifications
AMSOIL ATF Substitutes
1950
GM Type “A”
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF to 1952. For 1953 and newer models, use Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid (Type "F")
1959
Ford Type "A" (M2C33-A)
Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid (Type "F")
1959
Ford Type “B” (M2C33-B)
Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid (Type "F")
1960
Ford Type “D” (M2C33-D)
Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid (Type "F")
1967
Ford Type “F” (M2C33-F)
Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid (Type "F")
1972
Ford Type “G” (M2C33-G)
Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid (Type "F")
1974
Ford Type “CJ” (M2C138-CJ)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1981
Ford Type “H” (M2C166-H)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1987
Mercon (M2C185-A)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1996
Mercon V ATF
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
General Motors pioneered many automatic transmission technology concepts. They also lead the way with transmission fluid industry standards. All major manufacturers used the GM Type “A” fluid spec through the 1950’s. In fact, several Chrysler and Ford transmission fluids over the decades closely mimicked various iterations of the GM Dexron spec.
Release Year
GM ATF Specifications
AMSOIL ATF Substitutes
1949
GM Type “A”
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1957
GM Type “A” Suffix “A”
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1967
Dexron (B)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1973
Dexron II (C)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1975
Dexron II (D)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1990
Dexron II (E)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1993
Dexron III (F)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
1998
Dexron III (G)
Signature Series or OE Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF
In conclusion, we’ve got high-quality ATF options for your classic automatic transmission. Contact us for a wholesale price list using the form on this page.
A reader asks: Is it OK to use AMSOIL Dominator 2-Stroke Racing Oil in my Johnson 15-horsepower outboard engine?
Our answer: No, AMSOIL Dominator would not be an appropriate choice for your outboard engine. AMSOIL has a few outstanding options for your outboard motors (see below). Dominator is a great oil for racing, but not suitable for outboard motors.
Dominator was developed for racing and/or heavily modified two-stroke engines only. This oil is designed to provide protection at exceptionally high operating temperatures. Therefore, even stock snowmobiles and dirt bikes may not run hot enough to completely burn the Dominator formula.
Also, AMSOIL did not add much in the way of detergents to Dominator. The reason for this is that racing engines are frequently torn down.
Therefore, a cool-running 2-stroke outboard engine could have two problems with running Dominator. First, outboards will not run anywhere near hot enough to completely burn the racing formulation. Second, Dominator does not offer detergents to clean up the resulting deposits from incomplete oil burning.
To sum up, the result of using Dominator in outboards could be significant deposit build-up and eventual operational problems. Dominator is a world-class racing oil. But it does not belong in an outboard engine.
Correct AMSOIL Two-Cycle Oil For Outboard Motors
AMSOIL Synthetic Two-Stroke Injector Oil is a versatile option for marine and dryland applications. It is superb as a premix in older outboard engines. It is also suitable as an injector oil. This full-synthetic oil can also be used in snowmobiles, personal watercraft and much more.
HP Marine Synthetic 2-Stroke Injector Oil is AMSOIL’s ultra-premium option for two-stroke marine applications. It can be used in the very latest 2-cycle engines (such as Evinrude E-TEC). HP Marine can also be used as a premix at 50:1. HP Marine delivers the ultimate in wear protection, deposit control and low-aquatic toxicity.
Saber Outboard is a premium synthetic product for outboard premix-only oil. Provides steadfast wear control, optimum throttle response and low-smoke in older outboard motors. Saber Outboard is sold in the USA only.
Questions? Contact us using the form on this page or call us at 1-800-748-5781.
AMSOIL has added a new 15W-50 Synthetic Small Engine Oil. The new AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-50 Small Engine Oil joins 5W-30, 10W-30 and 10W-40 in their Small Engine Series.
Some engine brands such as Kohler, Vanguard and Kawasaki suggest using a 15W-50 motor oil in some models.
Where Can This Small Engine 15W-50 Be Used?
This motor oil is suitable for engines powered by gasoline, diesel, natural gas or liquid propane. Therefore, it is a versatile solution for commercial small engine fleets.
It is appropriate for any small engine requiring the use of SAE-50, 10W-50, 15W-50 or 20W-50 viscosities.
AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-50 Small Engine Oil is suitable for applications requiring the following specifications:
API SL, SJ, SH, SG (gasoline engine oil specs)
API CD, CF (diesel engine oil specs)
JASO MA/MA2 (motorcycle/ATV/side-by-side, wet-clutch-compatible)
AMSOIL 15W-50 Small Engine Features
Offers protective advantages over automotive motor oil
Capable of long service life
Provides all-weather synthetic protection
Resists oil consumption
Contains special anti-rust/corrosion ingredients
Where Can I Buy AMSOIL Synthetic 15W-50 Small Engine Oil?
We can offer this new AMSOIL Small Engine 15W-50 at wholesale to the homeowner or professional. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.
A reader asks: I have a 2017 KTM 300 EXC. The manual calls for 15W-50 oil in the transmission. I see that AMSOIL has the Metric Synthetic 15W-50 Motorcycle Oil and the Synthetic Dirt Bike Transmission Fluid. Which is the best option for me?
Our answer: We have a third option that we think would be the perfect transmission fluid for your 2-stroke KTM. That would be AMSOIL 10W-50 Synthetic Dirt Bike Oil. We’ll explain why below.
Let’s take AMSOIL Synthetic Dirt Bike Transmission Fluid off the table for your application. The Dirt Bike Transmission Fluid was designed for Japanese-brand dirt bike applications that require an SAE 80 oil. Keep in mind that gear oils use a different viscosity scale to prevent confusion with motor oil. An SAE 80 gear oil is actually the equivalent of 30-weight motor oil (in terms of actual viscosity). Your model requires a heavier 50-weight viscosity.
AMSOIL Metric Synthetic 15W-50 Motorcycle Oil would certainly perform and protect very well. There would not be any harm in using this product. Metric 15W-50 is designed to deliver smooth clutch engagement in street bike applications. Again, it will work, but the Dirt Bike 10W-50 is designed for off-road service.
An Ideal Transmission Oil For KTM Dirt Bikes
AMSOIL 10W-50 Synthetic Dirt Bike Oil was designed for dirt bike transmission service. It fights clutch fade by dissipating heat. This allows for maximum clutch plate preservation. It also provides instant clutch engagement in tight off-road situations. Dirt bike transmissions are commonly put under extreme loads in mud, deep sand and other extreme conditions. This aspect was a main focal point during product development.
AMSOIL Dirt Bike 10W-50 will also protect gears during rapid shifting. The 100% synthetic formula provides smooth, optimized shifting performance.
Replacing a 15W-50 with a 10W-50 is a non-issue. Keep in mind that at operating temperatures, both products are a 50-weight oil.
In conclusion, AMSOIL Dirt Bike Synthetic 10W-50 was designed to hold transmissions together under the rigors of professional motocross racing. Therefore, it will be the perfect upgrade for your bike too.
The Type A automatic transmission specification was created by General Motors in the late 1940’s.
Type A ATF was used in the automatic transmissions of every car maker on the market from 1949 to 1958. After that, other auto makers started to offer their own ATF specifications.
The “Type A, Suffix A” specification replaced Type “A” in the late 1950’s. Dexron “B” fluid later replaced Type A, Suffix A.
All iterations of Dexron B, Dexron II and Dexron III ATF products are backward compatible with Type A and Type A , Suffix A fluids.
Newer General Motors specs such as DEXRON VI, DEXRON HP and DEXRON ULV are NOT backward compatible with applications requiring a Type A ATF.
To sum up, to find a Type A ATF, simply look for an ATF that is compatible with the Dexron III specification. Dexron III ATF was specified for General Motors vehicles until 2006. Therefore, it is commonly available. While the label may not list the old Type A spec, note that GM states that Dexron III is a suitable replacement for Type A.
A reader asks: Can AMSOIL Engine & Transmission Flush be used in CVT transmissions? I’ve got a 2017 Nissan Altima. Wondering if this product will give my transmission a thorough cleaning?
Our answer: The short answer is no. AMSOIL Engine & Transmission Flush is NOT compatible with CVT transmissions (also known as “continuously variable transmissions”). This flush product is suitable for regular automatic transmissions and engines only.
CVT transmissions have very little in common with traditional automatic transmissions. This flush product is not compatible with the inners workings found in a CVT unit.
How To Prevent Deposits In A CVT Transmission
The first way to keep your CVT transmission clean and operating smoothly is to change the fluid on a regular basis. CVT oil needs to be changed more often than many would guess. See our article When To Change CVT Fluid In Your Brand Of Vehicle.
The second way to prevent deposits in CVT units is to use a good synthetic CVT oil. AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid is highly resistant to fluid breakdown and extreme heat. This prevents the conditions that cause deposit formation in the first place.
In conclusion, changing your CVT fluid on a regular basis will prevent expensive repairs in the future. Using a good synthetic CVT fluid will protect against wear and deposits. It will also maintain consistent transmission performance.
We can sell AMSOIL Synthetic CVT Fluid at wholesale prices in Canada and the US. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.
Some may have noticed that AMSOIL has changed their injector oil recommendation for all Sea-Doo personal watercraft models with 2-stroke engines.
Previously, AMSOIL had suggested Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil for Sea-Doo 2-strokes. The reason being is that Sea-Doo had traditionally suggested oils meeting the API TC specification. As Interceptor is AMSOIL’s premium API TC 2-stroke oil, it was the default choice for Sea-Doo models.
But a change in thinking prompted AMSOIL to suggest two other choices.
AMSOIL’s premium recommendation is now HP Marine Synthetic Two-Stroke Oil. The reasons AMSOIL went this route are twofold. First, HP Marine offers excellent wear control and clean engine internals. Secondly, HP Marine offers low aquatic toxicity and strong anti-rust/corrosion protection. Overall, HP Marine ticks all the boxes as the perfect Sea-Doo 2-cycle injector oil.
Isn’t HP Marine A TC-W3 Oil?
HP Marine is suggested for applications requiring NMMA TC-W3 two-stroke marine oil. Many will argue that TC-W3 oils should be avoided in Sea-Doo applications. But, keep in mind that HP Marine’s elite synthetic formula exceeds the TC-W3 standard by a country mile.
AMSOIL’s in-house testing shows that HP Marine also performs flawlessly in API TC applications. Today’s sophisticated synthetic oil technology transcends old thinking. Decades ago, a 2-cycle oil could either perform well in TC-W3 (marine) or API TC (dryland). Due to previous oil technology limitations, a 2-cycle oil may not have provided peak protection and deposit control for both categories.
Today’s ashless detergents (as found in HP Marine) and synthetic base oils are worlds better than the formulations from yesteryear. HP Marine is overbuilt in terms of wear protection and RAVE power valve deposit control. The “API TC vs. TC-W3” discussion is obsolete when it comes to some of the elite synthetic two-stroke oils of today.
AMSOIL’s Second Two-Stroke Oil Choice For Sea-Doo Models
A less expensive choice for 2-stroke Sea-Doo applications is AMSOIL Synthetic Two-Stroke Injector Oil. This product commonly replaces synthetic, semi-synthetic and mineral oils at a great price. This full-synthetic two-stroke oil also provides excellent wear protection, clean engine internals and strong corrosion control. AMSOIL designed this oil to cover many application types on both water and land.
Is Interceptor Still A Safe Choice for Sea-Doo 2-Stroke Models?
Interceptor is and was a safe choice for Sea-Doo Rotax 2-stroke engines. Nothing has changed there. Interceptor is among the best of the best API TC oils on the market.
In conclusion, AMSOIL could have stuck with Interceptor as a safe recommendation for Sea-Doo 2-stroke engines. But HP Marine also delivers cutting edge wear and deposit protection for hard-running 2-strokes. The extra boost of anti-corrosion protection and marine low-toxicity was a enough to tip the scales in favor of HP Marine.
The 3.0L EcoDiesel engine has been redesigned for 2020-21. Therefore, these motors now require a different motor oil type. The new third generation EcoDiesel motor will require a 5W-40 motor oil meeting the FCA MS-12991 standard. This new diesel engine is an option for Ram 1500, Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Wrangler models.
The previous generation of EcoDiesel engines (2014-2018) required the use of heavy-duty 5W-40 diesel oil meeting the MS-10902 standard.
About The Chrysler MS-12991 Motor Oil Specification
MS-12991 is not a new motor oil specification and was not conceived specifically for the Gen 3 EcoDiesel motor. It has been around since at least 2012. The Fiat 1.4L Turbo-charged MultiAir gasoline engine first required motor oil meeting this spec. This engine was found in the Fiat 500 starting in 2014 and Jeep Renegade starting in 2015.
This AMSOIL European FS 5W-40 has met the MS-12991 standard since 2013.
About AMSOIL European Formula FS 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil
The formulation of AMSOIL FS 5W-40 is 100% synthetic and has “Full-SAPS” (sulfated ash, phosphorus, sulfur). It meets the additive requirements of the FCA MS-12991 motor oil standard. “SAPS” levels are a common consideration in the European motor oil category.
AMSOIL European FS Synthetic 5W-40 offers protection against extreme heat and delivers superb turbo-charger protection. This oil is fortified with a healthy zinc level to fortify wear control. The 100% synthetic formula also delivers fast winter start-up protection. AMSOIL formulated this product with a robust detergent package to keep engine internals clean.
Note that AMSOIL has not listed the FCA MS-12991 specification on the product label at this time. We expect that this will occur in the coming months. AMSOIL Inc. supports the use of European FS Synthetic 5W-40 in applications requiring a motor oil with the FCA MS-12991 spec.
We can sell AMSOIL European Formula FS 5W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil at wholesale prices in Canada and the USA. Contact us for a price list using the form on this page.
