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Chrysler Repair/coolant shelf life, Dexron transmission fluid

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Expert: - 1/9/2012


Question
1999 Dodge Grand Caravan 165K 3.3L

I have two general questions:

1) Is there any expiry date for the green mopar coolant? I am going to replace the radiator hoses and I have about 3 quarts of 50/50 coolant in a bottle, never used but 2-3 years old. Can I use it now?

2) What will happen if Dexron III is used in a Chrysler transmission that needs ATF 4?
Today a mechanic recommended me to use it for my van and said he has done it for many vans and those are running fine. Dexron III is much cheaper compared to mopar ATF 4 here. Ofcourse I did not listen to him and got ATF 4.

Thanks for your help!

Answer
Hi Shafique,
I have not seen such an expiration date for coolant.
I agree with your decision to not use Dexron III as Chrysler has for years warned against doing that. Internal wear on parts/gaskets is the problem with the Dexron for Chrysler-built transmission.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

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I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2008 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty.

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Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

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Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

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Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

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"Top expert of 2010" and "2011" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts.

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