Even though my MK4 (Z16SE) is an evolution of the engine that was in my MK3 (X16SZR), I thought the gearbox (AF13-II) was basically the same as the one in the MK3 (AF13). It seems to have some newer functions such as “neutral stop”, but it behaves identically and looks identical.
Not quite so. I need to service it, and I have a stock of Dexron III ATF for this. I’ve always used Dexron in my autos and Power Steering systems. Then I see in the book that the AF13-II needs “special fluid”. Hmm.
Vauxhall say “Yes, DO NOT use Dexron in it, it’s special fluid at £x”. I then called a different Vauxhall tech dept, and got a “Dexron should be fine.” Hmm again.
The web shows a lot of non-conclusive info. However, it shows that the “Actual” model of the gearboxes is as follows:
AF13 (MK3) – AW60-40LE
AF13-MKII (MK4) – AW60-42LE
HOWEVER, interestingly..the AW60-42LE is also listed as the AF17 gearbox..or the one fitted to the Vectra-B. So the AF13-II is actually a Vectra AF17 as well. Now that DOES take Dexron III. So to settle this, I called these guys:
http://www.automaticchoice.com
Who are a UK branch of an Automatic gearbox parts supplier. They confirmed that the AF13II is also called the AF17, and is effectively an uprated AF13 with the neutral stop system. I asked about the “special fluid” – they checked, and said they’d never heard of anything like that – Dexron III or better according to their technical data. Only Vauxhall seem to think that it’s “Special Fluid”.