I want to switch over to Mobil 1 using the multiple drain/fill method over a period of time. Is it ok to run a mix of the synthetic (Mobil 1) and dino (whatever Jiffy Lube put in there the last time I had it changed) fluids?

 

Yes, you will be fine, although a flush would be even better for your tranny.

 

It only takes about 30 minutes to drain and flush and then you get the whole thing vs mixing. All that is requried is to remove the return line from the trans cooler after you do the drain and fill. Then pump out 2 quarts at a time until you have replaced all 10 qts (approx) or until color changes.

Very simple and effective. I did mine myself but it does help to have someone to start the car while you hold the hose in a container.

 

I wouldn't mix synthetic and non-synthetic oil. I've seen two-stroke motorcycles get trashed from that. It might be different in a car's tranny though, I just wouldn't do it.

 

whats done to the 12.6 max Jime ?????

 

i have used mobil 1syntec for a week so far and no problems. good luck.

be careful that suff gets real hot real fast.

 

Never mix oils. Certain oils will "clot". I dont know how it happens, but from my experience with 2-Stroke motorcycles, using 2 different premix oils can lead to **** up ****.
If you wanna use it, drain and flush.

 

http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....hreadid=218852

 

goto www.mobil1.com for more information.

 

How do you tell the difference in which line is input and which one is the return line?

Also, if the existing fluid is good, how will I tell the difference in color? Is Mobile 1 a different color than red?

 

On the max, it should be the upper line, the one w/o the banjo bolt. Old fluid that needs to be replaced will have a burnt smell to it. It will look more brown than new fluid will.

You can use this transmission cooler install writeup to help you identify the return line.
https://maxima.org/shoptalk/sub_modi...er/index.shtml

 

Way cool! That will be a lot easier to do now that I see the connector!

Thanks!

 

Also, keep in mind that fluid flows from the cooler to the tranny in the return line. When performing the tranny flush, you removed the line at the cooler, and put in it's place a 3' long clear hose (one end attached at the cooler, the other end in a resivoir to catch the old fluid), you'll have more room to work and you can see the ATF color through the hose. Jime right in saying you should have a partner to start the car - it would be more of a PITA if you had to do it yourself.

 

Sounds good! Do you know if Mobil 1 ATF is the same color as Dextron III?

 

I'm really not sure. I've never seen fresh dino Dextron III side by side to Mobil 1. I've been using Mobil 1 ATF ever since I got the Maxima, and this is the first car I've performed a DIY ATF change on. Chances are good though that your old ATF will look different than the new ATF. When you do the drain and refill of the ATF pan, before you continue with the flush, compare the old fluid to your new fluid so you'll have an idea of what to look for when you flush out the rest of the old.

 

Will do. I checked out where the return line was last night and it looks like a snap to do. I also checked the shop manual and all they recommend is the drain and refill method. I'm sure there will be an improvement in changing to all synthetic!