Aisin-Warner TF-80SC

The Aisin-Warner TF-80SC is used in various Fords, Jaguars, Mazdas, Toyotas, Saabs & Volvos and is also variously known as the AWF21,  AF40-6,  AM6,  AW6A-EL, TF-81SC & AF21 depending on which vehicle it is fitted to. Barring minor details, these are all the same 6 speed, torque-converter automatic gearbox.

Plenty of sources on the web and elsewhere will tell you that the TF-80SC has no dipstick and that the fluid level has to be checked via the level plug underneath the car. Even the Haynes manual for the Mondeo says this, but on my car (and probably on others too) there is actually a dipstick, hidden away behind the engine, which makes checking and topping up far easier.

So if you have any version of this gearbox, it’s well worth checking properly for a dipstick before you go crawling around underneath the car. The ATF level should be checked with the engine running and the fluid at 55 degrees Celsius.

The best way to determine this is by using an infra red thermometer on the outside of the gearbox. Although if you don't have one, I wouldn’t sweat it - just check the level with the engine at running temperature. As long as you haven’t been thrashing it or sitting in traffic for hours then it should be fine.

If necessary, the fluid can be topped up via the dipstick tube. Ford recommend a fluid which meets their WSS-M2C924-A specification. Mobil 3309 is the correct stuff and has Ford WSS-M2C924-A on the label (and rumour has it that the various manufacturers' own brand fluids for this gearbox are all just rebranded Mobil 3309 anyway). DO NOT USE DEXRON III fluids - which are death to this gearbox.

Incidentally, the large syringe on the left of the picture is an ideal tool for topping up ATF: The difference between the maximum and minimum levels on the dipstick is only about 200ml so don’t add too much fluid at once.