So, I just bought a 1986 SE V6 4-speed with 10k original miles on it.
Though it shifts nice, I want to change out the oil and put Syncromesh in it. I assume it has the original oil, but no way to know. The entire underside was apparently coated with the black "under spray" stuff some time back by the original owner, to include the top of the tranny -- the trans and VSS are coated so I think it is safe to say it hasn't been changed in a while if ever.
Problem is, I am really concerned about losing the VSS gear into the transmission when I pull the VSS off for fill. This happened to me 20 years ago on the exact model car. Any pointers? I'm wondering if I should drain the oil first so that, if the gear falls, I'm more likely to see it (versus it falling into fluid)?
I think I read that it sits on a "shelf," so perhaps a very slow pull up on the VSS would leave it right there if it was to separate? Should I rotate the VSS back and forth a quarter turn so that it is more likely to pull straight up smoothly, or is that only more likely to separate the plastic gear?
I do not have the expertise to pull my tranny and crack it open, so losing the VSS gear would be an expensive mistake for me.
There is a fill hole that also serves to show the proper fluid level on the side. I used this hole by means of a flexible funnel, though it was nice to have a metal version that retained the position I bent it into. Add fluid until it starts seeping from that very hole, plug it back up, and you're in good shape.
There is a fill hole that also serves to show the proper fluid level on the side. I used this hole by means of a flexible funnel, though it was nice to have a metal version that retained the position I bent it into. Add fluid until it starts seeping from that very hole, plug it back up, and you're in good shape.
I haven't looked at mine yet, but I was under the impression that the fill hole became a tamper-proof, rounded plug starting in 1986 -- thus making the VSS the only real fill option?
[This message has been edited by USMUCL (edited 02-06-2017).]
There is a fill hole that also serves to show the proper fluid level on the side. I used this hole by means of a flexible funnel, though it was nice to have a metal version that retained the position I bent it into. Add fluid until it starts seeping from that very hole, plug it back up, and you're in good shape.
This^
No need to mess with the vss for checking or changing oil.
I haven't looked at mine yet, but I was under the impression that the fill hole became a tamper-proof, rounded plug starting in 1986 -- thus making the VSS the only real fill option?
I think so. Both the fill and drain bolts cracked loose very easily -- makes me think the oil has been changed before.
I'll be back after I screw this up
me personally, i wouldnt use the syncromesh in the 4 speed. i would stick to 5w30, it will shift smoother. syncromesh is more like ATF than oil, and the old school style syncros of the 4 speed work better with oil, IMO
I believe the viscosity of the Synchromesh Fluid is also 5 W 30. Just better wear additives suited for the transmission. Even in later transmissions that had been originally filled at the factory with motor oil, GM recommended changing to Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid.
I use Synchromesh in all 3 of my cars. Will continue to, as well. FWIW, it's advised to buy the Delco bottle, as opposed to off brands. Have not pushed my luck in this respect.
I've heard so many times that the GM Synchromesh fluid is actually produced by Pennzoil. Someone once said that it was also by John Deere. The Pennzoil is so much cheaper from the discount parts stores than the GM fluid at a dealer.
The Pennzoil Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid is distributed by Sopus Products out of Texas. It states that it's for transmissions requiring GM Part No. 12345349 or 12345577, Specification 9985648 and Chrysler Part No. 4874464, Specification MS9244.
If someone has a bottle of GM fluid, how do those numbers compare?
All done, FWIW. The hex nut was definitely the way to go versus the VSS. Put a plastic tube on my funnel, fished it down, and poured in the Syncromesh until it started to trickle out. Took about 2.8 qts, which is what the manual says was the capacity.
I didn't notice much shifting effort change, but didn't expect to. Perhaps the oil was still "new" after 10k miles and hadn't broken down, or perhaps the original owner had already made this switch recently. For me though, it was cheap peace of mind to change out in case the fluid was 31 years old. I'm in the process of changing out every fluid and filter for my own peace . . .
And I did use the Pennzoil. I don't know if it is EXACTLY like the GM equivalent, but don't really think there is enough difference between the two to be anything but placebo. I don't use OEM oil in the crankcase either
[This message has been edited by USMUCL (edited 02-15-2017).]
Been a while since I looked it up, but it was a bit of advice from thirdgen.org for the Camaro/firebird t5. The "paper" synchros make owners worry enough to be very picky about fluids. The same forum has members who fill their t5 Borg Warner transmissions by removing the shifter and dropping a Ziploc bag of pre-measured fluid inside to avoid messes. Clever idea, but you won't catch me doing that!
Advice originating from an actual expert on transmission lubrication... or advice from some random backyard mechanic?
I doubt that NASA would be much interested in my "advice" regarding space travel.
Actually, NASA is seeking public help/advise on developing a self contained waste management system for their space suits. Was it a $30k reward for the final design?
On topic, though, mere mention of transmission fluid suggested for a T5 in my VIN "G" 85 trans am was enough for me to stick with the TSB GM issued. I can also order Delco fluid from summit racing at what I consider a fair price, and seeing that Delco fluids are praised, be it their fuel system cleaner, supercharger oil, or synchromesh, I don't see the harm. A few extra bucks for the correct fluids has been no big pill to swallow, I pay extra for Brad Penn oil with zddp when I can find it for my 80's cars. If not, I toss a bottle of zddp additive in as needed. I'm happy with my results thus far.
Actually, NASA is seeking public help/advise on developing a self contained waste management system for their space suits. Was it a $30k reward for the final design?
I've heard so many times that the GM Synchromesh fluid is actually produced by Pennzoil. Someone once said that it was also by John Deere. The Pennzoil is so much cheaper from the discount parts stores than the GM fluid at a dealer.
The Pennzoil Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid is distributed by Sopus Products out of Texas. It states that it's for transmissions requiring GM Part No. 12345349 or 12345577, Specification 9985648 and Chrysler Part No. 4874464, Specification MS9244.
If someone has a bottle of GM fluid, how do those numbers compare?
Interesting to note: i once went to buy syncromesh for a 5 speed from the local dealership in Coconut creek, FL, and they were out of the GM branded stuff, but also sold Pennzoil syncromesh... interesting to say the least
