Avoid automatic transmissions?

[mws]

Different additive packages for different applications.

 

If I'm not mistaken, GL-4 is for moderately loaded gears with moderate sliding action so the additives include some moderate anti-scuffing as well as impact protection.

GL-5 is for heavily loaded gears with lots of sliding action. Therefore, there are a lot of anti-scuffing additives, and the additives are different to withstand much heavier loads (molybdenum compounds? Zinc? not sure...) The gears and bearings must be designed to be compatible with these additives. Hardened steel is the norm.

 

Bottom line, some parts in a transmission designed to use GL-4 may not be compatible with the additives in the GL-5. The steel may be less hard, or maybe bronze or other materials are used. These materials are probably perfectly adequate for the application. However, the additives in a GL-5 lubricant are too hard and wear the parts rather than protecting them...

[Precise1]

^ The man has spoken well

 

Thankfully, I knew I needed GL-4 when I replaced the clutch and changed the fluid. Went to 5 autoparts stors before I found it. Every shop I went into, the guys would say "I'd just use gl-5, same thing". DONT LISTEN TO THEM ! I was so fed up when the last guy told me that I said "Oh, is that what you use in your 95 Pathfinder ?". He drooled and twitched for a bit, then said "No, I have a Bronco 2 auto". "Then why the he!! are you telling me that ?" was my calm query.

Also, last year there was a TSB posted about the stock oil capacity not being sufficient to provide proper lube at all times. I cant find it right now, but when I do, I'll pin it in the garage section. *flexes his moderator muscles* The gist of it is to add 1.2 quarts extra oil. This can be done by tilting the truck (considerably) or pouring it in the shifter hole (the shifter boot can be a PITA). I put in the 'normal' amount of GL4 and then added a quart of Lucas oil stabilizer and called it good.

 

B

[mws]

Golly, shucks... And the word for the day for the "technogeeks in training" is... Hypoid! Hypoid gears are a kinda spirally shaped variation on right angle gear sets. These are the ones that drove the development of GL-5 lubricants as they have a huge amount of sliding engagement. Much quieter than bevel gears.

 

Always glad to help. And good on you for reminding us about the extra fluid. I know it is somewhere over in the garage. I found that soon after I started hanging out here. I only wish the previous owner knew about it...

 

Mine is exhibiting stage 1 symptoms of the potential for inadequate bearing protection at the original spec'd oil volume - one bearing rumbles a bit. Only noticeable when in neutral and clutch is engaged, and it is not getting any worse, but I am keeping a close ear on it.

[Precise1]

Ok, here is the link for those of you who are interested... It is now pinned in the Tech section in the Garage. The gist is put in 5.1 quarts instead of 3.6 quarts...

 

http://www.nissanpathfinders.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=2621

 

B

[Slick]

Yes.. but if you know yer vehicle and its clutch bite point... you can clutch it up a hill as smoothly if not smoother than an auto.. because autos can "hang".. whereas manuals go per the drivers specifications.... just my 2 cents worth.. hehe :gossip: