FYI
DEXRON-III:
DEXRON-III is not compatible with the most recently designed transmissions, and the use of these earlier type fluids could result in transmission damage.[1]
All DEXRON-III licenses expired at the end of 2006, and will not be renewed. Beyond that date, General Motors will only support the use of DEXRON-VI fluids for use in Hydra-Matic transmissions.[1] Fluids claiming DEXRON-III type performance continue to be sold under abbreviated names such as Dex/Merc and D/M, however, since the DEXRON-III licensing system no longer exists, these fluids are not regulated by GM in any way.
DEXRON-VI
DEXRON-VI was introduced in 2005. It was designed to replace all prior specifications, and is therefore backward-compatible with applications calling for DEXRON of any type. The specification (GMN 10060) defines both a performance level and specific additives that provide improved shift feel, friction durability and oxidative stability compared to earlier specified fluids.
(source-GM/wiki)
No, you can pick up Dex VI at any Autozone or Advanced Auto.
We all "hear" lots of things but I forgo judgement based on hearsay. I love the stuff and have used it in two T56 tranny's with great results.I have heard from reliable Viper techs that RP will damage the yellow metals in the tranny and shouldn't be used. I use AMS Manual Transaxle Gear oil which is designed for the higher temps of the Viper tranny. Works great.
PS-Send your VIN to Club and get upgraded to 'Owner'.
The issue with the damage to T56 components comes from the different years of the transmission.
Synthetic lube (Mobil 1, RedLine, Royal Purple) should NOT be used on pre-2000 T56 transmissions as it can eradicate the paper blocking rings in them.
Post-2000 T56 transmissions have Kevlar blocking rings, so synthetic lube is okay.
The OEM/Castrol lube can be a bit thick, esp. in colder climates, but it's one that the manufacturer got right, if soley for protections sake.
Personally, I run Mobil 1 and I've been happy with it.
I heard good things about Royal Purple, but after they got busted last year for mis-leading claims regarding their oil, I think I'll pass on their trans. fluid.
(No offense, Derek. Don't stuff me into one of the truck tires at the end of the barbell you're pressing 40 times in 60 seconds....LOL)
Lots of good options out there, but remember: Using something other than the Castrol/OEM stuff will probably cook any type of warranty on the transmision.
All Viper T-56 transmissions have the Kevlar lined blocker rings. The pre 96 units used Dextron 3, Castrol Syntorq was developed for 96 and up to eliminate the neutral gear rattle that was aggravated by the cam change. This oil also has a higher shear strength and temp tolerance than the ATF.
Some Redline and RP oils have an additive that can swell the Kevlar lining and cause shifting issues.
We recommend the Castrol Syntorq for all T-56 units.
This contradicts information I got from Corvette owners, T56rebuilds.com, and the tech I spoke with at Tremec.All Viper T-56 transmissions have the Kevlar lined blocker rings.
All Viper T-56 transmissions have the Kevlar lined blocker rings. The pre 96 units used Dextron 3, Castrol Syntorq was developed for 96 and up to eliminate the neutral gear rattle that was aggravated by the cam change. This oil also has a higher shear strength and temp tolerance than the ATF.
Some Redline and RP oils have an additive that can swell the Kevlar lining and cause shifting issues.
We recommend the Castrol Syntorq for all T-56 units.