New Guy Questions

[Lil bastard]

Porsche claims the Fluid on this tranny, a ZF-5HP19 mfr’d. by ZF Friedrichshafen AG, is lifetime. It isn't. This is merely a marketing thing. The PNA Rep told me that their service guys expect to service the tranny at some point for other things, such as a leaky Pan Gasket, and do the Filter/Fluid change then

The same tranny is used by BMW, Jaguar, Audi and VW, and they too used to advertise it as a lifetime, service-free unit. At least BMW and Jaguar (haven't checked Audi or VW) have since changed their service schedule from 'lifetime' to a fluid and filter change every 45k mi. at the recommendation of ZF Friedrichshafen AG. Why Porsche hasn't followed suite to date, I have no idea.

ZF Industries (USA distributer for ZF Friedrichshafen AG) were very specific in my inquiries that ONLY ESSO LT 71141 Transmission Fluid is to be used in the tranny. They specifically told me that other fluids (Valvoline, Texaco) which claim compatability with ESSO LT 71141 are not and that they have seen trannys damaged by these fluids. After corresponding with them, I would not even consider using Lucas, or anything other than the prescribed ESSO fluid.

Unlike BMW and Jaguar, Porsche did not include a dipstick with which to measure the fluid level, so you can't check it easily, nor can you add any fluid w/o getting under the car.

While involved (many steps), the Filter and Fluid change is not really difficult. About $30 for the Filter, another $10 for the Pan Gasket and about $120-$130 for the fluid (8 qts.).

You do need some sort of pump and something to measure the temp of the fluid, as you heat the fluid up to a certain temp and then fill until the fluid drips back out. Due to the expansion of ATF, this filling temp is critical to insure the tranny is not over/under filled - between 35°C - 45°C (95°F-113°F). , so it's best to use a large capacity pump to be sure you can add the necessary fluid before the temp gets too high - you add the fluid with the engine idling.

I listed a step-by-step procedure for this DIY. Just go to the DIY section.