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While searching for the DCT transmission fluid for my GT-S from Ravenol ATF DCT-F3 which is rather hard to source, I decided to check its specification. Its PDF data sheet says:
"RAVENOL ATF DCT-F3 is especially developed for use in 7- dual-clutch transmission GETRAG Powershift 7DCL750 for Daimler Specification MB 236.25."
So I then searched for a fluid that meets the same MB spec of 236.25 and found this from Valvoline:
Valvoline™ Dual Clutch is a full synthetic transmission fluid specifically engineered to protect and prolong the life of dual clutch automatic transmissions. Recommended for use in the following applications: BMW 83 220 440214, Ford M2C 936A, MB 236.21, MB 236.25, Volvo 1161838, Volvo 1161839, VW G 052 182.
Has anyone heard of this DCT fluid, and if they say it meets the MB spec for the DCT, would it be an alternative choice? Having had experience with DCT fluid changes in my 2009 Nissan GT-R, I know I had zero issues in over ten years of hard track use with an alternative fluid than Nissan's OEM fluid since I used Pentosin FFL-4 made for BMW, so there might be an easier to source product than the Ravenol.
Valvoline data sheet says it is specified for the Ferrari 7 speed from Getrag which is the same transmission as in the AMG GT-S.
Last edited by descartesfool; Jan 27, 2022 at 11:24 AM.
I am NOT making a recommendation to substitute Motul so, my "disclaimer". I am confident using it in my car but a few words on these "substitutes".
When a trans manufacturer builds a product they end up with "exclusives" with the fluid suppliers. In that agreement the manufacturer agrees NOT to test or support any other fluids, but the fluid maker in the agreement. Other companies MIGHT copy the formula, mark the product as "compatible" with the OEM product, and that can be a double edged sword. It might or might not actually be compatible, but the other company is in a very low risk position any damage could result by using their substitute, so they go with it. BTW, Motul IS marked compatible with MB 236.25 spec.
ZF is notorious for doing this. I've changed a number of ZF 6HP and 5HP transmission fluids where only "Lifeguard" fluid is prescribed. But on the "Streets" we knew some other products worked with no issues at all. In the case of the 6HPxx a Motorcraft Mercon SP. The way we happened on SP was Ford used the ZF 6HP26 in the Lincoln SUV and their fluid change recommended SP, Same trans that was in numerous Euro and Asian cars.
So, this is not a recommendation as much as a caution to proceed at your own risk BC, ultimately, you'll own it anyway, not Motul.
Last edited by Acta_Non_Verba; Mar 20, 2022 at 02:22 PM.
DCTs tend to be more picky on fluid, I'd stick to something as close to possible as the oem fluid or just get the oem one.
Yes, that is why I was careful with a disclaimer above. Not recommending it at all, but I'll experiment with it. If the Shell was available, this wouldn't even be a discussion on my part.
18 AMG GTC and 22 F150 Limited. Past owner 16 Maybach, 17 Brabus Smartcar, 06 Ford E150, and 22 G70
You changed the spark plugs. The trans will be a walk in the park. Just remember my experience and that I ended up adding a bit more fluid to the trans to get rid of the jerky stops.
18 AMG GTC and 22 F150 Limited. Past owner 16 Maybach, 17 Brabus Smartcar, 06 Ford E150, and 22 G70
I had a impeccably clean drain pan that a weighted after the drain and then installed the exact same weight back into the trans. Then I did the warm up with the scan tool and when it got to temp I did the drain off.
I had a impeccably clean drain pan that a weighted after the drain and then installed the exact same weight back into the trans. Then I did the warm up with the scan tool and when it got to temp I did the drain off.
OK, so you weighed it but not the actual quantity in qts or liters?
Yes, I have a scan tool that will give trans fluid temp. I'll follow WIS as I have it.
18 AMG GTC and 22 F150 Limited. Past owner 16 Maybach, 17 Brabus Smartcar, 06 Ford E150, and 22 G70
Correct I did not record the exact quantity since my scale is very accurate. As far as the drain off at temp. I ended up adding a bit more to get the drain off at temperature. Of course as I said it really needed about 10oz more than what WIS directions said, At least that was my experience.
As you probably know WIS is a bit strange. If you put the capacity for engine oil as they say you will get the message please drain off a quart. That happened with my 16 Maybach and the GTC. So I learned from this and now days add one quart less than what WIS says.
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