Replacing the Fluids

[Magistr]

I'm replacing my Automatic Transmission Fluid, Oil, and topping off my Power Steering Fluid (I'm replacing the power steering hoses). I got done reading through the manual provided with my '96 328i and it says that for,

Automatic Transmission:
Brand name fluid with Dexron II, 3.2 quarts (3.0 liter)

Oil:
API SG/SH, 20w-50 (recommended for hot Florida weather according to the chart provided), 4.2 quarts (4.0 liter)

Power Steering:
Generic Automatic Transmission Fluid


Now heres what it says in my Hayne's book purchased from any auto store,

Automatic Transmission:
Fluid with Dexron III, 3.2 quarts

Oil:
API, 20w-50, 6.8 quarts w/ filter

Power Steering:
Automatic Transmission Fluid with Dexron II, 1.5 quart approx.


So now to my questions/concerns,

1. Why does the manual say 4.2 quarts of oil while the book says 6.8 quarts? This is a huge difference. Does anyone know which is correct?

2. Do I need brand name ATF for my transmission fluid? Dexron II or Dexron III for transmission fluid?

3. For power steering, would I be ok with a generic brand or should I purchase a brand with Dexron II in it?

Thanks for any help anyone can provide! :D:):buttrock

[Sclarpepplar]

im not too sure on the fluid amounts, but all i do know is its defenitly worth the extra money to buy "name brand" fluids. Those fluids are keeping very expensive items alive..i wouldnt reccomend cheaping out

[GardenBeast]

4L is what my car takes.... did you get a 318 manual?

[grauster]

Redline D4 ATF is what I would use for both the auto tranny and the power steering. Some of the best fully synthetic stuff around. Dexron III for both as well. That is what is specified for my '99 and there weren't too many changes from '96 to '99. Check out www.bavauto.com and see what they recommend for you car.

Make sure the oil is ACEA A3 rated.

Definitely don't cheap out on the fluids.