I've never used anything but Trans fluid w/out any problems...if water gets inside the system, I imagine yer gonna have problems no matter what's in it...JMHO...

I use DEXRON 3 type ATF in all trim systems as well. DEX/MERC fluid will work just fine, plus has seal conditioners in it. Just don't go and use a synthetic ATF like DEX VI in it as it will eat the seals.

The stuff I had to deal with turned into a sticky goop about the consistency of toothpaste..... All I know is what I saw.... I used to feel it was fine and would have agreed with the guys here but now no way would I use it... you might be fine... maybe there was something else at play but I have encountered a few people with similar stories to mine... I suggest staying away from atf for this use but I have nothing concrete... in the end it's up to you. A couple say go for it and one says don't.... we aren't gonna agree and even if I am right you still might not have any problem.

Either way, just fix the leak and the cost of fluid becomes far less important... besides best not to be pumping any more oil into our waters than they already gets.


BTW I can say for certain that my K&N recharge oil is definitely not the same as ATF.. very thin aerosol and sticky when it dries... smells way different too