Transmission fluid question

[Freedommaster]

I'm sure this question has been asked several times but I can't seem to find a definitive answer on what fluid should be used in my particular model. I have a 2004 Eddie Bauer that I believe has the 4R100. I looked up my vin number on a decoder site which shows the transmission order code as 44E which would indicate it has the 4R100. So back to my original question, I have been looking all over to find out if I should be using Mercon or Mercon V. Many have said both would work or that only Mercon will work or that Ford has said that Mercon V is the new replacement and then others have said the change does not apply to the 4R100. So you can see there's some confusion.

 

[Bedrck47]

The following was copied from the 2004 service manual



General Specifications
Item Specification
Fluid

• These dual-usage fluids are not to be used in transmissions that use only the MERCON® type fluid. These dual-usage fluids may be used in transmissions that require MERCON V® use.
• Use of any fluid other than the recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.
• Refer to the transmission fluid level indicator and the Owner's Guide for the correct type of transmission fluid required. Some fluid labels may indicate dual usage such as MERCON® and MERCON V®.
• Using a transmission fluid that indicates a dual usage MERCON ® and MERCON V® in a transmission application requiring MERCON®, may cause transmission damage.

Motorcraft MERCON® Multipurpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX MERCON®
Fluid Capacities

• The fluid capacities are approximate dry fill capacity and include fluid coolers and fluid cooler tubes.
• Fluid level indicator should be used to determine actual fluid requirement and fluid specifications.
• Check level at operating temperature. DO NOT OVERFILL.
• The transmission fluid and the in-line filter should be changed every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) regardless of normal or special operating conditions.

4R100 4x2 15.0L (15.9 Quarts) Approximately Dry Fill Capacity
4R100 4x4 15.5L (15.9 Quarts) Approximately Dry Fill Capacity
Transmission Fluid In-Line Filter
Transmission Fluid In-Line Filter Kit XC3Z-7B155-AA
Transmission Fluid In-Line Filter XC3Z-7B155-BA
Lubricants
Silicone Brake Caliper Grease and Dielectric Compound
D7AZ-19A331-A (Motorcraft WA-10) ESE-M1C171-A
Multi-Purpose Grease
D0AZ-19584-AA ESB-M1C93-B

 

[Bedrck47]

look on your door jamb for the trans code

Transmission Code
• E — Four-speed automatic (4R100)

• U — Four-speed automatic (4R70W)

• W — Four-speed automatic (4R75W)

 

[Freedommaster]

look on your door jamb for the trans code

Transmission Code
• E — Four-speed automatic (4R100)

• U — Four-speed automatic (4R70W)

• W — Four-speed automatic (4R75W)

This would have been easier if I had a door jam sticker lol all I have to go on is the vin number. The door jam sticker is beyond readable. From the vin decoder it gives the code 44E however.

 

[Bedrck47]

go to ford etis and enter your vin you will get a completer readout of what all was on the expy when built

the codes are only letters Your 44E may just be the E which would be the 4R100 trans

 

[Freedommaster]

go to ford etis and enter your vin you will get a completer readout of what all was on the expy when built

the codes are only letters Your 44E may just be the E which would be the 4R100 trans

According to that website its the 4R75W. If that's true then it should be taking the Mercon V correct? Idk why they make this stuff so confusing.

 

[Bedrck47]

The following was copied from the 04 owners manual


Transmission fluid (1)

Motorcraft MERCONV ATF

4R70/75 E-W 13.1L (13.9 quarts) (2)

(1) Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. Transmission

fluid requirements are indicated on the dipstick or on the dipstick

handle. Check the container to verify the fluid being added is of the

correct type. Refer to your Scheduled Maintenance Guide to determine

the correct service interval.

Some transmission fluids may be labeled as dual usage, such as

MERCONand MERCONV. These dual usage fluids are not to be used

in an automatic transmission that requires use of the MERCONtype

fluid. However, these dual usage fluids may be used in transmissions that

require the MERCONV type fluid.

MERCONand MERCONV type fluids are not interchangeable.

DO NOT mix MERCONand MERCONV. Use of a transmission

fluid that indicates dual usage (MERCONand MERCONV) in

an automatic transmission application requiring MERCONmay

cause transmission damage. Use of any fluid other than the

recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.


(2) Indicates only approximate dry-fill capacity. Some applications may vary

based on cooler size and if equipped with an in-tank cooler. The amount

of transmission fluid and fluid level should be set by the indication on


the dipstick’s normal operating range.

 

[Freedommaster]

The following was copied from the 04 owners manual


Transmission fluid (1)

Motorcraft MERCONV ATF

4R70/75 E-W 13.1L (13.9 quarts) (2)

(1) Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. Transmission

fluid requirements are indicated on the dipstick or on the dipstick

handle. Check the container to verify the fluid being added is of the

correct type. Refer to your Scheduled Maintenance Guide to determine

the correct service interval.

Some transmission fluids may be labeled as dual usage, such as

MERCONand MERCONV. These dual usage fluids are not to be used

in an automatic transmission that requires use of the MERCONtype

fluid. However, these dual usage fluids may be used in transmissions that

require the MERCONV type fluid.

MERCONand MERCONV type fluids are not interchangeable.

DO NOT mix MERCONand MERCONV. Use of a transmission

fluid that indicates dual usage (MERCONand MERCONV) in

an automatic transmission application requiring MERCONmay

cause transmission damage. Use of any fluid other than the

recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.


(2) Indicates only approximate dry-fill capacity. Some applications may vary

based on cooler size and if equipped with an in-tank cooler. The amount

of transmission fluid and fluid level should be set by the indication on


the dipstick’s normal operating range.

Excellent, thank you so much. My expedition didn't come with a manual and I'm new to Ford's coming from a 4runner, so this is all new to me.

 

[Bedrck47]

go to

owner.ford.com

and you can download a copy of the owners manual