gcalo

So if I understand this discussion correctly the Motorcraft Ford Mercon SP ATF is OK for the ZF6HP tranny in the 04-10 530i?

BimmerFan52

Haven't heard of any adverse effects and the savings is substantial if you are going to use 12 quarts over two drain and fill cycles.

If money is no object most people say you can't beat the ZF LG6 for guaranteed compatibility.

If you use the Mercon SP I would reset the adaptation.

turboawd

well 2005-2008 lincoln navigators used the same transmission, and they call for mercon sp fluid.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ZF_6HP26_transmission
i was reading where the same transmission was used in hyundai genesis, and dealers were charging 75/quart for fluid!

gcalo

Thanks to both for the responses.

I plan on doing a few drains until the fluid is clean.

I want to make sure the torque converter is clean as well.

So that will use up a bit of fluid.

I'll advise results.

Confused though about "resetting adaptation"? That's new to me

BimmerFan52

Resetting the adaptation is done using a cable and programming. Although the blurb attached is dated, the theory is still the same for ZF transmissions today. Although Mercon SP may be identical in properties to what you now have in your trans, if it is a little different, the adaptation will adjust for it.

Ignore what is being said on the page about not resetting the adaptation. They are talking about dealers doing it while the car is being serviced for complaints of transmissions not working correctly, as resetting the adaptation clears the memory and may delete faults which can be used as clues to effect repair.

gcalo

Source for the cable please if you know?

I looked up about software download locations but there were caveats. So best place to find the software please?

I would bet this would clear a slight hesitation I have felt going into reverse since the car was new.

Dealer blew me off about it but I felt it was not right.

Many thanks for the response

BimmerFan52

An Indy will also do it for about $50.

Bavarian Technic Software - Products for sale

gcalo

Thank you, Bimmer52, for the info on software which i will check.

Anyone know anything about either of these adaptive procedures?



Both are obviously non-US cars but any application here?

gcalo

So is this the correct GT1 package for the 2006 series?

BMW INPA V5.02 & NCS Expert Package

gcalo

So I have been reading more about the "Adaptive Processes", and it seems that the changes through the software are not permanent or am I mistaken?

It seems that upon effecting a transmission adaptive process the computer will again memorize a driving pattern and then hold that pattern.

So am I correct in assuming therefore that in changing tranny fluid to say Motorcraft SP that an "adaptive" process would only assist the tranny's memory in learning the fluid type.

Does the process have a long-term effect on the tranny's proper function or does it have to be done frequently?