When properly selected oil is filled into the gearbox in a timely manner, it can effectively prevent wear on the surfaces of the transmission components. In addition, changing the oil prevents scuffing and welding of metal parts to each other, thus minimizing the risk of destabilizing normal operation. And if the question of periodically changing the oil in a manual transmission disappears by itself, the only question left is which oil to fill in a manual transmission.
A mechanical transmission consists of hundreds of miniature mechanisms that ensure the correct functioning of the entire system only through the smooth interaction and smooth operation of each unit. However, since many of the coatings of such mechanisms have an uneven surface, grooved with special small teeth to engage with the same parts, their constant operation at high temperatures can cause the teeth to lose their strength properties and wear out. When the coatings of such spare parts lose their relief, the hook with the rest of the mechanisms can be broken at any second, and this can lead to all sorts of consequences, up to the need to replace the gearbox itself. That is why it is necessary to choose the right oil for a manual transmission. Oil is a viscous substance that, when it gets on any part of the box, envelops it, forms a protective film around it. Such protection in itself does not affect the characteristics of mechanisms that relate to their strength, but due to its properties, the oil film provides a smoother adhesion of several surfaces so that damage does not appear on these surfaces as a result of their interaction - scuffing.
Of course, without scuffing, all parts will last much longer, saving the car owner from the need for such a time-consuming procedure as dismantling the gearbox to replace them. The oil in a manual gearbox is similar in purpose to the purpose of engine oil, so many, especially novice car owners, are often interested in whether oil intended for internal combustion engines can be poured into mechanics. Even representatives of official dealers themselves do not give an unambiguous answer, however, according to their recommendations, engine oil can still be poured into a mechanical transmission, but only in one case: when the engine torque is fully transmitted only to the front wheel axle, i.e. for vehicles with front wheel drive. They explain this possibility by the arrangement of gears in the mechanical boxes of front-wheel drive cars, which are in the form of small cylinders. The visual difference between the gearbox oil and the engine oil is mainly in the degree of viscosity - the version for the internal combustion engine will be more liquid and fluid. Nevertheless, before pouring engine oil into a box, it is worth carefully checking whether the technical characteristics of the car allow such an alternative. Yes, the price range of motor oils is more affordable than similar fluids for manual transmissions, but if the oil is not suitable, there is a risk of failure of the whole box, and such repairs will be many times more expensive. It is necessary to clarify such points only with the official representatives of the company that produces such cars, as well as it is recommended to carry out work on changing the oil with them with the possibility of obtaining a guarantee.
PROPERTIES OF OILS FOR MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Of course, the most significant criterion when choosing a fluid for a box on mechanics is the degree of viscosity, which is always indicated by the manufacturer on the label. In addition to viscosity, some more important characteristics of such oils are distinguished - performance properties. The oil with each specific property is labeled as follows:
- GL-1 - mineral-based gearbox oil, without additives;
- GL-2 - oil consists of elements with a high percentage of fat content;
- GL-3 - the oil contains special additives to protect the box elements from scuffing;
- GL-4 - oil containing a whole range of additives: anti-scuffing, reducing the degree of wear, etc .;
- GL-5 - marking has a meaning similar to the previous one, the difference is in the amount and characteristics of additives.
Oils with the first three markings are intended for the most part for cars older than 10-15 years old, equipped with a manual gearbox. Fluids with "GL-4" and "GL-5" properties are inherently more versatile and can be used for more vehicles, but it would be preferable to use such oils for passenger cars with manual transmission.
IMPORTANT: what kind of oil to pour in the manual transmission: "GL-4" or "GL-5" - oils marked "GL-4" are intended exclusively for transmissions of cars equipped with front-wheel drive, while "GL-5" is used for manual transmission for rear-wheel drive versions and for axles. If the oil is equally well suited for machines with any drive arrangement, two markings are placed on the label at once next to each other. There are also oils on the market that are labeled "GL-6", but in practice they are not used as often, because "GL-5" is officially recognized as a higher quality standard.
SELECTION OF OIL FOR A MANUAL GEARBOX BY VISCOSITY DEGREE
As a rule, the first thing a consumer pays attention to when choosing an oil, regardless of whether it is intended for an internal combustion engine or a box, is the alphanumeric designation on the bottle label. This indicator is the determinant of oil viscosity. In the indicated inscriptions, the symbol "W" stands for "winter", which literally means "winter", and the designations in the form of numbers show the relation to the season of applying the liquid in the winter season. If the “W” symbol is absent in the inscription, the oil is preferable for operation in the spring-summer period with a higher constant temperature regime. Designations for the degree of viscosity of oils for manual transmissions are presented in the form of a table: Class Temperature regime at which the viscosity does not exceed 150,000 cP °C Kinematic viscosity at a value of 100 °C, cSt min max 70-W - 55 4.1 - 75-W - 40 4, 1 - 80-W - 26 7.0 - 85-W - 12 11.0 - 90 - 13.5 24.0 140 - 24.0 41.0 250 - 41.0 - under the specified conditions or with similar parameters, the oil is unsuitable for operation.
Numerous tests show that for the most part, one-season oil, which is designed to be used only in specific weather conditions, does not work out the full potential set by the manufacturer. Thus, its constant replacement is often impractical, unless we are talking about a sports car with a very capricious box.
In order to save themselves from the need to change the oil with the onset of each new season, many motorists prefer to pour all-weather fluid into the box. All-weather oils are marked in the form, for example, "80-W-90".
CHECKING THE OIL LEVEL IN THE MANUAL GEARBOX
In order to change the oil in the transmission in a timely manner, you need to periodically monitor its level. Checking the oil level in the manual transmission is as follows:
- the crankcase describing the manual transmission drain hole must be cleaned;
- open the plug that clogs the oil drain hole with a wrench.
IMPORTANT: checking the oil level in the manual transmission should only be done if the box itself has completely cooled down from operating temperatures, i.e. at least a few hours after the last car ride. After carrying out all of the above procedures, provided that everything is in order with the oil level, it should begin to ooze through the hole. Otherwise, you need to try to feel the insides behind the walls with your finger - the oil level in the mechanical box should not fall lower than the lowest edge of the drain hole is located.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION FLUID REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE
So, if preliminary diagnostics revealed such a need, the oil in the mechanical transmission must be replaced. How this procedure takes place:
- through the drain hole, all the liquid in the box is completely drained into any container. It is necessary to wait until all the old oil has drained to prevent mixing old used additives with new ones;
- a new liquid is poured into the box using an elastic tube or a large-volume medical syringe (more than 16 cubic meters). This method of filling is due to the not very convenient location of the drain hole. Filling is carried out until the moment when the oil level in the box does not exceed the level at which the lower edge is located. I must say that the mixing of the old and new fluid will occur one way or another, but to a small extent. For those who want to pre-flush the contents of the manual transmission from old oil, the best way out is to contact a service center specializing in this kind of work.
ADDITIVES FOR TRANSMISSION OILS FOR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS
In some types of gearbox oils, additives are already added to the composition by the manufacturer. Additives themselves are thinning components for automotive fluids that improve their properties and help lubricated parts last even longer by protecting them from wear. In cases where it is necessary to extend the life of the car without changing the oil at the manual transmission, you can add separately sold additives to it. Thanks to their use, the gears will shift more smoothly than before, because the teeth on the surfaces of the mechanisms will be lubricated even more efficiently and will pass their radius more smoothly. Thus, the use of additives in oils increases the efficiency of the box itself. Additives are added to the main liquid in the ratio of 15-20 ml / 2 l. The addition of additives allows you to get the following benefits in the future:
- improvement of characteristics responsible for the speed and smoothness of gear shifting;
- improved sound insulation of the box surfaces;
IMPORTANT: the use of additives for oils that are poured into damaged manual transmissions or transmissions with a high degree of wear is not recommended by manufacturers.
CONCLUSION
As a result, the choice of oil for manual transmission occurs according to several criteria:
- the age of the car and its technical condition, in particular, the condition of the manual transmission;
- wheel drive of the car;
- temperature and conditions in which the car will be operated.
The choice of a manufacturer should be carried out by car owners individually, based on the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. A timely oil change will guarantee stable and efficient operation for a manual transmission of any car.
24.02.2009
Properties and application of oils for hydromechanical transmissions
Oils for hydromechanical transmissions used in torque converters and automatic transmissions of trucks and buses of domestic production; in quarry, road, construction and other large-sized equipment, where oils are required for hydrodynamic transmissions, as well as in hydrostatic drives of self-propelled agricultural and other equipment
The main purpose of Hydromechanical transmissions (HMP)- ensuring a change in the torque and speed of the wheels in terms of value and direction, without interrupting the power flow when shifting gears.
Hydromechanical transmissions, their advantages and disadvantages
Advantages over mechanical transmissions:The main functions of oil for hydromechanical transmissions
Oil -
The torque converter performs the following functions:
1 - input shaft;
2 - planetary input gearbox;
3 - torque converter;
4 - planetary output gearbox;
5 - output shaft;
6 - oil pump;
7 - heat exchanger
Hydrostatic transmission (Hydrostatic drive)
The use of a hydrostatic drive makes it possible to simplify the construction of a power transmission, to abandon such traditional transmission units as a torque converter, gearbox, final drive, and brake mechanisms.
Diesel engine 1 drives two separate, identical and independent reversible hydraulic pumps 3, which are connected by high pressure sleeves 4 directly to reversible hydraulic motors 5.
The main properties of oils for hydromechanical transmissions
Hydraulic oils must provide:
Fluid for hydromechanical transmission Grade "A"
Oil brand "A" designed for all-weather operation in torque converters and automatic transmissions of trucks and buses of domestic production. It can also be used in hydrostatic drives of self-propelled agricultural and other machinery.
Contains an effective composition of additives that provide a high level of performance properties of the oil. Protects hydraulic drive parts from corrosion, has good filterability and anti-foam properties.
The high viscosity index ensures the stability of the viscosity-temperature characteristics over the entire operating temperature range. Good dispersing properties and chemical stability prevent the formation of deposits and varnish deposits on the surfaces of hydraulic system parts
Application area: Hydrodynamic transmissions of tractors manufactured by JSC "Petersburg Tractor Plant", JSC "PROMTRAKTOR" and other large-sized quarry, road, construction equipment where oils for hydrodynamic transmissions are required.
Oil for hydromechanical gears grade "R"
Oil brand "R"- hydraulic oil designed for all-weather operation in power steering systems and hydrostatic transmissions. Contains an effective composition of additives that provide a high level of performance properties of the oil. Namely, good anti-corrosion, anti-foam, dispersant properties and high chemical stability provide protection for system components, prevent the formation of deposits and varnish deposits on the surfaces of hydraulic system parts.
Main scope:
Power steering for KAMAZ, MAZ vehicles, LiAZ, LAZ buses, etc. Hydrostatic transmissions (Hydrostatic transmissions) for loaders, asphalt pavers
Oil MGE - 46V
The oil is intended for hydraulic systems (hydrostatic drive) of agricultural and other special equipment operating at pressures up to 35 MPa with a short-term increase to 42 MPa. It contains an effective complex of additives that provides a high level and stability of viscosity, antiwear, antioxidant properties.
The oil is not aggressive towards the materials used in the hydraulic drive.
Application area:
In the hydrostatic drive: agricultural machinery manufactured by the company "ROSSELMASH", in hydraulic systems of agricultural machinery.
Automotive oil plays an important role in the operation of almost all systems. With its shortage or complete absence, the details of the mechanisms with constant friction begin to wear out and become unusable. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the fluid level and replace it in time.
Every motorist knows that the gearbox consists of several shafts with gears rotating on bearings and constantly rubbing against each other.
In working condition, high pressure is created in the gearbox, its internal parts are in constant motion. Due to this, gear oil is produced over time, in contact with parts, the oil film is destroyed and, for this reason, metal elements seize.
Characteristics of gear oils
To prevent the consequences of mechanical friction processes and adverse external influences, there is a viscous oil with special additives. Its distinctive feature is that the oil film is sensitive to various kinds of influences and persists for a long time.
The composition of gear oils is similar to lubricants for motors. They contain similar components that prevent the formation of rust and rapid wear of parts, only the proportions are different.
Transmission fluid consists of chemical components such as phosphorus, chlorine, sulfur, zinc, which strengthen and strengthen the oil film. Due to this, it better withstands mechanical stress and increased pressure.
Varieties of oil bases
Gear oil is divided into three types based on:
- mineral;
- synthetic;
- semi-synthetic.
It is up to you to decide which type to choose, the main thing is not to make a mistake and not to mix "synthetics" with mineral water.
Synthetic based oil
When compared with mineral-based oil, synthetic oil has better fluidity, which has a very positive effect on the overall operation of the car at low air temperatures.
If we take into account the extreme differences in operating temperatures, then fluid leaks through the seals can be observed. But, as a rule, such troubles are most often found in cars with experience.
The main advantage of the synthetic base is the possibility of its use in a wide temperature range, so it is still considered all-weather.
Semi-synthetic oil
This type of oil is somewhere between mineral and synthetic. In terms of its properties, it is much better than “mineral water”, and in terms of cost it is an order of magnitude cheaper than “synthetics”.
Mineral based oil
Mineral oil is in high demand. It gained its popularity due to its low cost.
Manufacturers are trying to improve its quality by adding sulfur additives in large quantities.
Gear oils for different types of gearboxes
In addition to different bases, gear oils differ in properties. They are divided into two types:
- automatic transmission oil;
- manual transmission oil.
Oil for manual transmission
All internal parts of the gearbox require good lubrication and must therefore be completely immersed in oil. There are modifications in which complex mechanisms and they are especially loaded, then this lubricant will not be enough. In such situations, oil under pressure is given a forced supply.
The main functions of oil for "mechanics" (MTF marking):
- reduce mechanical stress;
- remove metal microparticles and heat.
Oil for automatic transmission
Automatic transmission oil is more demanding and is similar to hydraulic fluid. The main function of this oil is to transfer mechanical energy throughout the transmission. In principle, automatic transmission oil can also be used for manual transmissions, but it will cost much more.
The main functions of the oil for the "machine" (MTF marking):
- lubricates rubbing parts and mechanisms;
- creates a liquid environment;
- adds smoothness to the operation of mechanisms;
- protects against rust;
- removes heat;
- have a high degree of viscosity;
- prevents the formation of foam;
- has less damaging effect on seals and elastomers;
- resistant to oxidative processes.
The most famous automatic transmission oils
| brand | ||||
| Dexron 3 | Euromax ATF | Mobile Delvac ATF | ||
| Description | Meets the latest requirements of automotive production. | Special gear oil for expensive foreign cars. | Oil for winter use. | |
| purpose | For models with automatic transmissions, Steptronic, Tiptronic, etc. | For models: Mitsubishi, Chrysler Diamond, Ford Mercon, Nissan, Toyota, etc. | For trucks, buses, etc. | |
| Toyota ATF | Honda ATF | |||
| Description | Contains special additives to prevent rust and wear. | The composition includes components that provide protection to seals and elastomers. | ||
| purpose | Toyota and Lexus. | All brands of Honda. | ||
The difference in gear oil by viscosity level
Oil viscosity is another important characteristic of a transmission fluid. There are two classification types: SAE and API.
- 1. API is divided into 7 groups, the most popular are GL-4 for moderate loads and GL-5 for increased loads.
- SAE is divided into three groups: all-weather, winter and summer.
In the table "Transmission oils for certain models of domestic and imported production" you can see the most common transmission fluids, their degree of viscosity and some other characteristics.
| Oil grade | |||
| Mobile 1 SHC | Lukoil TM-5 | Castrol Suntrans Transaxl | |
| Description | Universal oil for manual transmissions, hypoid and other gears, synthetic, all-weather. | Semi-synthetic manual transmission oil for different types of gears, semi-synthetics. | Synthetic oil for manual transmissions, gearboxes in a block with final drives and transfer cases (PSNT). |
| SAE | 75W/90 | ||
| API | GL4 | GL5 | GL4 |
| Toyota | Mobile GX | Lukoil TM-5 | |
| Description | Synthetic oil for manual transmission, rear axle gearbox with hypoid gears, steering column | For combined gearboxes with front-wheel drive | For boxes of any type, steering and razdatki. |
| SAE | 75W/90 | 80W | 85W/90 |
| API | GL4/GL5 | GL5 | GL5 |
| Automobile model | |||||
| VAZ (classic) | Lada Priora / Kalina | Ford Focus 2 | Hyundai | kia | |
| Recommended brand of oil | "Castrol", "Lukoil", "Zik", synthetics and semi-synthetics | Shell Transaxl Lukoil TM-4/TM-5, | Ford Service; for automatic transmission - Mercon V Ford | Castrol Wagon Hyundai Kia MTF,; for automatic transmission - Diamond ATF SP-3, Hyundai Kia ATF | mobil 1, Hyundai Kia MTF,; for automatic transmission - |
| API | GL4/5 | GL4 | GL-4/5 | GL4 | GL4 |
| SAE | 75W/90 | 75W/90 or 80W/85 | 75W/90 or 80W/90 | 75W/90 | 75W/90 |
Features of changing transmission oil
In modern models of cars with a new type of automatic transmission, an oil change is not provided, it is filled for a full operational period. In such gearboxes, you will not be able to find out the oil level, since there is no dipstick. In practice, sometimes there are situations when there are problems with the box and after the diagnosis, the specialists still make an oil change even in expensive models.
In conventional car models, an oil change should be made after 80 thousand km. mileage, according to average data, this happens about once every 2 years. Such standards are set for good vehicle operating conditions: good roads, moderate climate, no traffic jams, etc.
You should also monitor the color and smell of the oil. If it is noticeably darker and has a burning smell, then it's time to replace it. If in doubt, then contact a car service, where they will diagnose you and change the fluid.
The cost of transmission fluid has a wide range. The most inexpensive manual transmission oil costs around 100 rubles. The price of oil for an “automatic machine” is 250-1000 rubles: the most inexpensive brand is Chevron ATF, the most expensive is Motul ATF.
Over time, the oil loses its protective properties. This leads to wear of gearbox parts, scuffing of gears and chipping of teeth. Oil needs to be changed on time. And although for some brands of cars the oil does not require replacement during the entire period of operation, for most models it is recommended to change the oil after 6-7 years if the box is mechanical.
The importance of gearbox oil needs no proof. Just look at the list of functions that it performs:
- Provides smooth gear shifting.
- Reduces wear on moving parts.
- Reduces the coefficient of friction.
- Removes heat, protecting gearbox parts from overheating.
- Protects against corrosion.
- Removes wear products.
- Reduces noise and vibration during operation.
What kind of oil is poured into a car gearbox?
When choosing an oil, consider:
- Transmission type - manual or automatic
- Type of drive - front, rear or full
- Operating conditions - city, highway, circuit racing, car tourism, rally.
1. Engine oil. On the first VAZ models with front-wheel drive, mineral motor oil M6z and M8z was poured into the box. According to its characteristics, it corresponds to gear oils GL-1 and GL-2 according to the standards of the international API system. Owners of older cars still use similar oils, but not higher than the GL-3 class.
2. Transmission. For DaewooNexia, LanosChevrolet and classic VAZ models, multigrade mineral oils with a viscosity of SAE75W-90 are suitable. Semi-synthetic gear oil SAE 80W-90 (SAE140 in summer) is used in Lada Kalina, Kia Rio and some Chevrolet models. For BMW, Mersedes, VolksWagen models, synthetic gear oil with a viscosity recommended by the manufacturer is used. When choosing an oil according to API standards, one should not necessarily give preference to a high class of GL-5 and GL-6. We recommend watching the video.
Important! Transmission oils are used only for manual transmissions. For cars of any brand with front-wheel drive, oil is used according to the standards APIGL-4 class, and for rear-wheel drive vehicles - class oilGL-5.
3. ATF fluid. Automatic transmissions use a red or red-brown (ATF) synthetic or mineral fluid that performs two functions:
- Lubrication and cooling of moving parts.
- As a working medium (torque is transmitted by oil from the engine to the gearbox).
The most famous ATF brand is Dexron. Other types of transmission fluids for automatic transmissions are painted yellow (type T 4 WS and T 4 vi) or brown (RanevolATF 6HPFluid hydrocracking oil for six-speed boxes). Coloring ATF fluids in different colors warns of oil incompatibility. A sharp change in the color of the liquid indicates problems in the automatic transmission and the need to change the oil.
4. Oil for hypoid gears.
Universal high-performance oil TS-hyp, with an extended drain interval, is used not only in aviation, but also for automatic transmissions of Mercedes, Fiat, Subaru cars. It differs from other oils in its resistance to oxidation and non-aggressiveness to oil seals, seals and cuffs.
Criteria for choosing gearbox oil
Oil is selected according to two criteria:
- By viscosity.
- According to the API.
In this case, two rules must be followed:
- Fill with the same type of oil recommended by the manufacturer.
- When switching to another brand of oil, consult with specialists.
Where and how to change the oil in the gearbox?
When changing the oil in a manual transmission, the following is required:
- To drain the oil as completely and quickly as possible, it must be heated.
- Drive to a repair pit or hang the car on a lift.
- Remove the cap from the breather and unscrew it or unscrew the drain plug, according to the design of your car box.
- Drain the oil into a prepared container.
- Remove the sump cover after the oil has drained completely.
- Check the condition of the pan gasket and replace if necessary. If desired, for greater reliability, a new gasket is placed on a sealant.
- Fasten the box cover in place.
- Fill with new oil to the correct level.
The volume and methods of controlling the oil level must be known in advance if you change it yourself and for the first time.
Partial or complete oil change in automatic transmission
- Incomplete oil change. In this case, only that part of the oil that can flow out of the box crankcase is replaced after unscrewing the drain plug. Fresh oil, mixed with old oil, partially flushes the filter and sump, but does not have a drastic effect on the operation of the gearbox. Such a replacement is easy to carry out on your own.
- Complete replacement. Produced by the service station using Wynns equipment. After changing the oil, gear shifting improves and the automatic transmission loses its “thoughtfulness”. At the same time, fuel consumption is reduced.
Features of changing the oil in automatic transmission
- Black oil with a burning smell indicates that the friction discs of the planetary gearbox are covered with deposits. After changing the oil, the cleaned discs will begin to slip. The automatic transmission will need a major overhaul.
- Sometimes the black color of the oil is the result of the destruction of the paper filter installed in the boxes of Asian-built cars. These filters need to be changed more often.
- New oil after pouring dissolves old deposits and partially loses its anti-corrosion and antioxidant properties. Preliminary cleaning of the automatic transmission from scale and deposits with a flushing solution will preserve the characteristics of the oil being poured.
Outcome
You can partially change the oil in the gearbox yourself, but for a complete replacement, it is better to contact the service. The right choice of what to fill is the key to a long and high-quality operation of your car.
