Gearbox Oil

[angrys3owner]

Hi All,

I've got an Audi S3 with a rather annoying problem engaging 2nd gear, the syncromeshs are commonly the problem with these boxes however it's fine once the car is warmed up! It's been suggested I try a better quality oil that's slightly thinner than the OEM.

The OEM is: 75W90 GL-4
The suggestion is: Redline MTL 75W/80 GL-4

Can anyone see any potential problems with this change? I'm guessing that it should be fine - I'm probably going to have to end up getting the gearbox rebuilt if this doesn't sort it as it's starting to drive me mad so unless it's going to be very bad for the gearbox I think it's worth a try.

I guess the other question is does anyone know where you can get Red Line MTL other than demon tweeks?

Cheers,

Ben.

[busa_rush]

www.redlineoil.co.uk/first.htm

If the syncro is done then fresh oil won't help it.

[Iceash]

It seems to be a real issue with most boxes, my polo does this also. I changed the oil and used molyslip this seems to help a little. one thing that has helped a lot is the "feel the gearchange" I wet myself when I heard this but it works. instead of changing straight from 1st to 2nd you need to feel nuetral for a brief moment. Then just move into second, but don't rush it and 9 times out of 10 my little bugger is fine.

I spoke to a company that rebuilds boxes and they said changing the synchromesh will not guarantee a fix! just one of those things!!!! they said only worth doing if it does it all the time!

Hope this helps m8

Ash

[angrys3owner]

Hi Guys,

Thanks for the replies, I think I will try changing the oil as it only happens when it's cold.

Ash - the idea of waiting for a sec or double clutching to change is handy but doesn't seem to help me with my problem.

Cheers,

Ben.

[opieoilman]

I would stick with a 75w-90 but use a synthetic one.

Cheers
Simon

[jap-car]

I have a car which felt as though it had slight syncro problems between 4th and 3rd after the box had warmed. It was down to old / contaminated hydraulic clutch fluid. Is this a possibilty? Probably not but worth a thought before stripping the gearbox!

[angrys3owner]

opieoilman said:

I would stick with a 75w-90 but use a synthetic one. Cheers Simon

Do you stock redline or another suitable oil? any chance you could send me a price for 3 litres of the stuff?

jap-car said:

I have a car which felt as though it had slight syncro problems between 4th and 3rd after the box had warmed. It was down to old / contaminated hydraulic clutch fluid. Is this a possibilty? Probably not but worth a thought before stripping the gearbox!

It is a possibility and I'll have a look but I think it's more than likely something to do with the box - it seems quite common. It's had a new engine and clutch in the last 13,000 miles so think they had to change all the fluids then but they will have used the cheapo Audi gearbox oil.

Thanks again for the advise chaps,

[opieoilman]

Take a look in the Members section here: www.opieoils.co.uk at the Silkolene SYN 5 75w-90 or Motul Gear 300 75w-90.

Cheers
Simon

[angrys3owner]

opieoilman said:

Take a look in the Members section here: www.opieoils.co.uk at the Silkolene SYN 5 75w-90 or Motul Gear 300 75w-90. Cheers Simon

Hi Simon,

Any ideas which is best out of the two you've recommended, I take it they are both ester based? is a lower viscosity index better when comparing oils or does that depend on application?

I'm thinking the motul looks good and might order that, but I would like to know your thoughts.

Cheers,

Ben.

[opieoilman]

Both are good, we sell more of the Syn 5 but then again it is also suitable for diffs which the Motul is not which may explain it.

Cheers
Simon

[angrys3owner]

Cheers Simon, I think I'll give the Motul a try then maybe the engine oil too next time that's due.

edited to add... I've placed my order so fingers crossed it'll help.

>> Edited by angrys3owner on Thursday 16th February 14:03

[olliedrew]

stick with same viscosity but upgrade cause some have better anti-foaming agents which stop air pockets