Smart Car of America Forum banner

Yet another gear oil question

2717 Views 21 Replies 7 Participants Last post by  toobroke
Has anybody actually tried the Valvoline Synchromesh oil? I'm reviving a 2009 451 that was towed behind an RV in gear, fubaring the engine, clutch and transmission. I got the car for for free and have rounded up the parts to make it work. Once it runs, it will be used at low speed for non-essential but fun short trips, like tens to hundreds of miles a year. I'd like to find a gearbox oil good enough for that and readily available at local suppliers. I'm very skeptical that use of anything other than BOT 328 will actually cause mass death and destruction, but I'm curious whether any members have tried the easy cheap locally available options. My local NAPA evidently stocks the Synchromesh at a low cost. Does anybody know of any reason I shouldn't try it?
1 - 1 of 22 Posts
Changed my recently changed transmission fluid (<1500k) today to redline. From the redline site.

"Since most GL-5 gear oils for differentials are too slippery for manual transmissions, Red Line offers these products that ensure proper shifting while providing ultimate wear protection"

Note the too slippery thingy quote.
Not to impressed with the oil price though, $90+.

I did notice trans slippage in cooler morning temps, 0c until the trans warmed up then the slippage was gone.
Not sure why your talking "GL5" oils?
Should only be a "GL4" rated oil!
  • Like
Reactions: 1
1 - 1 of 22 Posts
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top