Hello!

Geez, I bought my VX in June with 40k miles. It seems lately I've read a lot of concern about the 3.5 motor. There is extensive chat about the longevity of the engine and various ways to avoid problems, most noteably of late, using Diesel engine oil ("Avaliable synthetic Diesel oil rated SJ/SL C*-4 5W-40 are: Mobil 1 Turbo Diesel Truck and SUV 5W-40; Shell Rotella synthetic 5W-40 $15/gallon at Walmart) due to high detergent content that helps keep oil passages clear. This is from the Planetisuzu forums. I have begun using an additive called Militec (http://www.militec1.com) since it has not received any bad reviews by the FTC.

Anyway, I had the transmission serviced yesterday at 45k miles. The fellow indicated about 1/4" coating of metal particles stuck to the magnet in the pan and estimated about 25k miles to a rebuild of $1200 to $1700, depending on damage at time of failure. He said usually these die with some warning. He said they are a pretty weak unit, made in France and a prior version with the same diameter clutch packs was originally installed in the Chevrolet Vega. He works on Honda Passports and Isuzu Rodeos often, having just done 3 in his shop. He recommended against using Synthetic in an automatic transmission for two reasons: firstly, the regular fluid cannot be totally removed and it is not good to mix the two and secondly, the transmissions are designed to work with a certain friction coefficient and making things more slippery may lead to slippage (and heat). He said synthetics are great for transfer cases and differentials. He also recommended against the inline filter due to a potential back pressure issue.

I am glad that I do not see too many postings about the transmission and I have to console myself in that everything wears out eventually. I had a Chysler van and put a tranny in it every 3 years, did two valve jobs and installed a rebuilt motor, drove it for 9 years. Just a cost of operation, I guess.

Rick