DEXRON tranny fluid...

Imtrying

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Mar 27, 2004
Messages
40
Has any one ever use DEXRON transmission fluid in their lower units? In the manual I have it suggests that if one doesn't have the gear case oil (80-90 weight) you can use dexron transmission fluid as a replacement. If you do use it, is it better for the lower unit, or is it a poor replacement? ( I happen to have several quart bottles from a failed attempt to change my fluid in the truck.) TIA. Dan
 

rwise

Captain
Joined
Jul 5, 2001
Messages
3,205
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

Don't know about your lower, but in the 60's Mopar 4 speeds called for either. They shifted smother with the ATF!<br />Richard
 

Hooty

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 2, 2001
Messages
4,496
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

You could probably use old motor oil in a pinch. I wouldn't use it (the Dexron) just because I had it. Stick with lower unit gear lube.<br /><br />c/6<br />Hooty
 

tamparichard

Recruit
Joined
Jan 7, 2008
Messages
3
johnson 1974 50hp, 50ES74 or 50ESL74

johnson 1974 50hp, 50ES74 or 50ESL74

I need help, I have to replace the oil in my gearcase , but I don't know witch one or what kind of oil I have to use.
I need HELPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP

Please
:eek::eek::eek::eek
 

Gary H NC

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 1, 2005
Messages
8,972
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

The factory service manual says ATF can be used in the trim pump if OMC fluid is not available.NO way i would use it as gear lube!:eek:
And we have no idea what year and size motor you are even talking about...:rolleyes:
 

Gary H NC

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 1, 2005
Messages
8,972
Re: johnson 1974 50hp, 50ES74 or 50ESL74

Re: johnson 1974 50hp, 50ES74 or 50ESL74

I need help, I have to replace the oil in my gearcase , but I don't know witch one or what kind of oil I have to use.
I need HELPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP

Please
:eek::eek::eek::eek
BE NICE Richard!:cool:
 

tamparichard

Recruit
Joined
Jan 7, 2008
Messages
3
Re: johnson 1974 50hp, 50ES74 or 50ESL74

Re: johnson 1974 50hp, 50ES74 or 50ESL74

I have a Johnson outboard motor 1974 with 50 horse of power , model : 50es74 , the the manual said to "to change the oil in the Gearcase use, OMC Sea-lube, is not available use Dexron transmisition fluid (from general motor)

But this note was in 1974, now in this day what kind of oil I can use?
 

HighTrim

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jun 21, 2007
Messages
10,486
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

The recommended is 80-90 outboard gear oil, it has additives to protect the lower unit if you have water intrusion. Always replace the washer on the vent and drain screw, their failure is the #1 cause of water intrusion.

On the older electric shift motors, use Premium Blend Type C

And this thread was hijacked from 2004?? lol

Sorry, typing at same time.
 
Last edited:

Cricket Too

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
May 14, 2003
Messages
1,732
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

Wow, I didn't realize it was hijacked form 2004 until you said it High Trim.

Richard......Using the Search feature is good for research, but if you have to ask a question, start your own thread, it's easier for people to understand you, and if you jump in on a current discussion, then people are gonna get upset.

Anyway, just go to any marine store and ask for lower unit lube, any kind will work. You don't even need to get into specifics, just get anything and you'll be OK. But if you want to get technical, I prefer the BRP Ultra HPF in my OMC. And if you have an OMC/BRP dealer by you, just go in and ask for washer/gaskets for the drain and fill plugs for your lower unit. You'll be ok.
 

F_R

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jul 7, 2006
Messages
28,226
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

The manuals that state that you can use Dexron or 30 weight also say that it is for emergency use and should be replaced with the right stuff as soon as possible. Put a few drops of Dexron and a few drops of Hi-Vis between your fingers and tell me you can't tell the difference.
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

key word, EMERGENCY. not mentioned here, always change the plug seals.
 

wavrider

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Nov 26, 2007
Messages
543
Re: DEXRON tranny fluid...

Walmart stocks the outboard gear lube in the marine section and also a nifty little installation kit also. Less expensive than a marine dealer.
Reccomend using only marine grade lubricants instead of automotive lubricants. Marine lubes have a water intrusion additive, at least that is what is stated on the side of the bottle when I read the difference between automotive lube and marine lube.
 
Top