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First post, ATF color question.

Posted: Fri Jan 16, 2015 12:20 pm
by flyboyo2
I just completed the radiator bypass on my originally owned 2006 Pathfinder at 92000 miles. I caught about 2 oz. of ATF fluid from the radiator portion and it was red, no burnt smell and clear with no contaminants.
However, when I checked the fluid level the dipstick was wet and left wet spots on the paper towel but no color was visible on the white paper towel. Is this because of the clarity of the fluid or do I have a problem?

Posted: Fri Jan 16, 2015 12:25 pm
by smj999smj
That's typical of Nissan-matic "J" and "S" ATF.

First post, ATF color question.

Posted: Fri Jan 16, 2015 12:39 pm
by flyboyo2
Thanks for the prompt reply. I sure didn't want to take it to the dealer and have them tell a fairy tale to me about a fluid change.
By the way, I personally did the straight bypass with no extra parts two days ago and I'm 76 years old. As with everything else these days it took a little longer to do but anyone with a 10mm socket and a pair of pliers can do it.

Posted: Fri Jan 16, 2015 8:57 pm
by smj999smj
Trans fluid change is easy, too. Just use a 19mm wrench to remove the drain plug and about 1-gallon will drain out. Reinstall the plug. Remove the 10mm head bolt from the dipstick and remove the dipstick. Insert a trans funnel. I use a 1-gallon jug of Valvoline Maxlife ATF, but some prefer to pay a lot more for the genuine Nissan Type "S" ATF; Castrol Multi-import ATF is also compatible. Install 3-1/2 quarts of new ATF and start the engine. Top off the fluid as necessary and re-install the dipstick.