Page 74 - WHITE BOOK

Life Cycle & Degradation Process of Transmission Fluids
Transmission fluids are the most complex of vital fluids. They must provide lubrication, act as a coolant to control heat, and must allow proper adhesion so clutch materials may properly engage.
Their additive package contains a wide variety of chemical compounds including: anti-wear additives and detergents, rust and corrosion inhibitors, kinematic viscosity and viscosity index improvers and modifiers, anti-foaming additives and anti-oxidant compounds to inhibit oxidation and boil-off, dispersants and surfactants, seal swell additives and agents, cold-flow improvers, high temperature thickeners, gasket conditioners, pour point depressant and petroleum dye.
Today’s transmissions are smaller and lighter despite increases in engine horsepower and torque.
Under normal (IDEAL) driving conditions the operating temperature for transmission fluids is 175°. - 195° Fahrenheit (F) and their lifecycle (service interval) is 100,000 miles or more.
Under severe driving conditions (most vehicles), for every 20° - 25° F increase in operating temperature ‘Oxidation Doubles’ cutting fluid service life in half.
BOTTOM LINE: Four out of Five vehicles require a transmission fluid service at 50K miles or less.
“Venerability of ATF”
Fluid Rx Diagnostics - The Science of Good Business