I have a 1997 Voyager with the 31th three speed automatic transmission. I have rebuilt the transmission and now need to adjust the bands. I have checked the Wagner books and also checked Alldata for my car. On the front kickdown band Alldata says to tighten the band to 71 inch pounds and then back off the screw 2 1/4 turns. The Wagner book calls for tightening the kickdown band to 47.5 inch pounds and then back off the adjusting screw 2 1/2 turns. Anyone have any idea which of the two tightening/loosening sequences should be used.

The Low/reverse band is tightened the same on both Wagner and Alldata so that is no problem.

It is not critical for the band adjustment to be as precise at it appears to be. My old transmission mechanic once told me not to mess with a torque wrench when adjusting the bands. Just snug it up past hand tight and back off the listed number of turns.

Of the two specs you listed, the first one leaves the band slightly tighter than the second. The band has friction material, like a brake lining. As it wears, it gets looser anyway. Don't agonize over this. Just pick one spec and adjust it.

Can I use the ATF+4 synthetic transmission fluid in this transmission? It is only one dollar a quart more expensive and is supposed to be better.

one dollar more per quart than what? All ATF+4 fluid is synthetic as far as I know from what ive read in these forums.