Ford 5550 trans fluid

[Archie340]

Hello Ford Gurus!!!!
My old 70"s model 5550 backhoe that I just purchased, needs a trans fluid change. I want to use an inexpensive fluid, run it for an hour or so,(it hasn"t been changed in years!!!), drain it again, and fill it with a good quality fluid.
The Ops Manual calls for Ford "M2C41" trans fluid.
I don"t have a New Holland dealer near me, so I need a good alternative fluid that meets the factory specs. I have a Tractor Supply nearby that sells the "universal" fluids, but some say to stay away from the universal fluids and get the fluids that "meet the factory specs"...
Can I run a regular Dexron ATF for the flush out?? What should I use for the spec fluid??
Your thoughts please...
THANKS

 

[RodinNS]

Ford/NewHolland 134D is the correct oil. Quite often the UTF/TDH fluids sold by walmart and others meet that spec. That's all I use anymore... either walmart or canadian tire brand.

Rod

 

[Sean in PA]

M2C134 replaced the M2C41 spec.

Read the labels on the "Universal" fluids. Most of them will give a long list of different manufacturer's specs that they meet or exceed. Almost all of the ones that have those lists on the label will include one of the Ford/New Holland M2C134 specifications in the list (M2C134, M2C134B, M2C134C or M2C134D, where the last letter just indicates a slightly newer version of the spec, and each newer letter supersede the previous spec). Since your tractor is old enough that it only says that it needs M2C41, then any fluid that meets that, or any of the newer specs that superseded it, will be fine. Just stay away from ones that only say "Good for many older tractors" but don't list any particular specifications that they might meet.

 

[Archie340]

Thanks Guys for the replies.....Glad to know I don't need the high dollar stuff...
And Sean, THX for your time, you have helped me in the past!!!!