Hi, recently purchased the IPD auto transmission flush hose, and funnel, etc., to change my auto trans fluid on my 1985 240DL with 212,000. There is some hard shifting from 1st to second, but otherwise the transmission seems ok. I bought the car just 2,000 miles ago, and there are inadequate maintenance records on many things, including whether the auto trans. fluid has been changed recently, or even within 20 - 30,000 miles. So I thought I would try, the procedure looks simple enough. However, I was reading the safety warnings on the IPD directions, and they stated: "Also, if the fluid in your car is severely burnt (black in color) we have heard of a situation where replacing the fluid can cause the transmission to stop working. Apparently, debris in the dirty fluid acts as a friction enhancer allowing a worn out clutch pack to function. The new fluid removes the debris and the trans may now slip to the point of immobility. This is extremely usual, but is something you should be aware of if the trans in your Volvo has been neglected for many years".

I haven't seen enough auto transmission fluid to know if mine is "black", it is certainly dark. Has anyone had a problem with changing their fluid, or should I just go ahead? Also, any recommendations on auto trans fluid type, or are all brands basically interchangeable.?

Thanks!

Eric V.
Chicago