ukr

Is there any difference between the ZF lifeguard6 and OEM transmission fluid besides the price?

I'll be changing the mechatronics sleeve this weekend. Also, how many quarts/liters will drain out of the pan?

KyleB

I'd use ZF Lifeguard6. If you plan on recovering and reusing the transmission fluid that is already in the transmission, you should only need to buy one liter to 'top off' any fluid that you may lose. If you want to drain the fluid and replace, you'll need to buy 6 liters. You'll drain out about 5.5 liters.

https://5series.net/forums/diy-do-yo...thread-137584/

ukr

Thanks!

Boost7

In all honesty, who thought up the idea of recovering fluid and re-using them. That's like reusing the jizz out of a condom to lubricate the next. ZF fluid cost money, but it won't break anyone that already has picked up a luxury performance vehicle. Expect to pay if you want to play.

BimmerFan52

Actually it was BMW that came up with the idea of reusing transmission fluid. In order to maintain their story that it is a lifetime fluid they mandated to dealers doing repairs that any drained fluid must be put back into the transmission, as you can see from this SIB. They will reimburse the dealer for up to one quart to top off the trans.

http://www.revolutionautomotiveservi...s-Bulletin.pdf

KyleB

Agree, but some people are on a tight budget. It's obviously a less desirable option, I certainly don't recommend it, but it is nonetheless an option.

BimmerFan52

It depends on how many miles are on the fluid. If you just did two drain and fills 5K miles ago and suddenly your sleeve is leaking, as long as you handle the fluid in a spotlessly clean container why throw away $100.

But if you're closer to 50K miles on the fluid then yeah it is a no-brainer - put new fluid in.

Boost7

That part makes sense, but when I first heard of this I just thought it was really odd. I noticed it on my invoice from the BMW dealer when they serviced the transmission pan, and the note below said....recover fluid, and added fluid, I had a WTF? moment...but oh wells.

KyleB

I definitely agree. putting used oil back into the gearbox of a $60,000 car seems ludicrous to me too. You have to remember BMW doesn't make or repair those transmissions, so you have to take any 'recommendation' they make with a HUUUGE grain of salt.

Anyhow, good luck OP with replacing the sleeve. It's really not too difficult. Hopefully the thread I posted is helpful. cheers.

svre46

If anyone is on a budget use these

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E60-545...249/ES2523911/

Not too much more for OEM.

http://www.thectsc.com/index.php?p=p...=186&parent=50



Also check out Pelican Parts. Sometimes they come out cheaper.