Jeep Cherokee 2000 Service Manual - page 1521
Dexron II fluid IS NOT recommended. Clutch
chatter can result from the use of improper
fluid.
Mopar
t
Dexron IIE/Mercon automatic transmission
fluid when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed red
so it can be identified from other fluids used in the
vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red color
is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid con-
dition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin to
look darker in color and may eventually become
brown. This is normal. A dark brown/black fluid
accompanied with a burnt odor and/or deterioration
in shift quality may indicate fluid deterioration or
transmission component failure.
FLUID ADDITIVES
DaimlerChrysler strongly recommends against the
addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than
those automatic transmission fluids listed above.
Exceptions to this policy are the use of special dyes
to aid in detecting fluid leaks.
Various “special” additives and supplements exist
that claim to improve shift feel and/or quality. These
additives and others also claim to improve converter
clutch operation and inhibit overheating, oxidation,
varnish, and sludge. These claims have not been sup-
ported to the satisfaction of DaimlerChrysler and
these additives must not be used. The use of trans-
mission “sealers” should also be avoided, since they
may adversely affect the integrity of transmission
seals.
OPERATION
The automatic transmission fluid is selected based
upon several qualities. The fluid must provide a high
level of protection for the internal components by
providing a lubricating film between adjacent metal
components. The fluid must also be thermally stable
so that it can maintain a consistent viscosity through
a large temperature range. If the viscosity stays con-
stant through the temperature range of operation,
transmission operation and shift feel will remain con-
sistent. Transmission fluid must also be a good con-
ductor of heat. The fluid must absorb heat from the
internal transmission components and transfer that
heat to the transmission case.
Fig. 4 Fourth Gear Overdrive Components
1 – CLUTCH
2 – BRAKE
3 – RING GEAR
4 – PLANETARY CARRIER
5 – SUN GEAR
6 – ONE-WAY CLUTCH
7 – INPUT SHAFT
XJ
AW–4 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
21 - 221
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)