Repair-It

So I guess I’ll pass on the bundle and stick with MaxLife for the 8HP70(D?) (I’m not sure if I have the D designation or not)

I think the Rowe 9008 implies that Lifeguard 8/9 are relatively low viscosity. Not sure what to make of that though... Just need to decide if the "bundle" is worth it or stick with the MaxLife... I'm thinking stick with the $6/qt MaxLife for the ZF since internet wisdom says its OK.

Shipping goes free over $200, so the delta cost for the fluid is only $8.73/qt for the 9008, but I'm not sure it's better than Maxlife.

Rowe has several ZF approvals on other fluids, just no approvals noted on the 9008 ATF.

Ok - so pan options. The ZF aftermarket application sheet shows this as the right kit: https://aftermarket.zf.com/en/catalog/products/1087.298.361?country=US These guys show that kit at $156 (currently out of stock) + $10 shipping. So I think this is what I want to order, since it's "real"...

Valvoline responded with a typical marketing response quoting the product advertising sheet only.

Ordered the etrailer tow bar. Hopefully it's halfway decent, rated for 10.5k lbs and "lifetime warrantied" by etrailer, so I shouldn't have to replace it regardless what future tow vehicles or RV setups I have. I had also ordered a Curt tail light kit: https://www.curtmfg.com/part/58907 Ho...

Here's a data point that probably supports your arguments for Benz-approved only and "universal" not applying.

Royal Purple universal fluid is apparently "not" recommended for 725.03X applications:
https://royalpurple.lubricantadvisor.co ... ion/130685

Figured I'd write Valvoline a question since we've been debating this so heavily: "I'm considering what transmission fluid to use to service my 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 550 with a 725.035 transmission during a 135k mile service. Valvoline Maxlife multi-vehicle shows Valvoline's recommendation of ...

Somewhat interesting that if I was the first to somewhat document my experience with it I would at least be able to show Valvoline our full discussion history and trepidation, including reasonable viscosity and other concerns in my write up to them if I have to ask them to cover the cost of a transm...