Redline MTL in manual transmissions calling for ATF

[mkosem]

The 5-speed in my saturn calls for ATF as the fluid for it. I've heard of othe people using MTL in the place of ATF. Does anyone have any input on the subject?

--Matt

 

[userfriendly]

Matt;
I've used THFs, low temp or the new multi-grade Cat TO-4s, and SAE 10W or 0W30s engine oils that are Allison C-4 or Cat TO-2 approved in several different automotive and light truck MTs that called for ATF.
What you want to avoid is using a GL-5 active EP lubricant in transmissions that specify engine oil or ATF.
A commercial lube such as EXXON'S SGO 50 might just work wonders.

 

[tom slick]

MTL will work perfect for your application.

 

[mkosem]

excellent, still waiting for Redline's input...ugh

--Matt

 

[unDummy]

Straight from the redlineoil website:

"Red Line MTL may be used in transmissions which recommend 70W, 75W, 80W, or 85W GL-4 gear oils, or SAE 30 or 5W/10W30 motor oils. If a 90W GL-4 or SAE 40, 10W40, or 15W40 is required, MT-90 may be used. If the transmission or transaxle requires an SAE 90 GL-5 gear oil, then Red Line 75W90NS or 75W140NS Gear Oil may be used. In transmissions which recommend Dexron or Mercon fluids we recommend our D4 ATF which is very similar to the MTL, being a GL-4 Gear Oil also. The D4 ATF will provide better low-temperature shiftability, and the MTL would provide better wear protection for racing use. MTL is not designed for use in rear-wheel drive differentials. Those generally require a GL-5 lubricant such as Red Line 75W90 Gear Oil. It is not necessary to flush the transmission before replacing with MTL. Remove the drain plug and drain while warm. Seal compatibility has been designed to be similar to petroleum lubricants, and leakage should be no greater than any other oil of comparable viscosity. Being formulated with extremely stable synthetic basestocks, MTL and MT-90 will last much longer than conventional petroleum lubricants. However, we do not recommend extended drain intervals, since without a filtration system, there is no way to remove metal shavings other than draining the lubricant. The regular maintenance intervals are also recommended to insure that the proper level of the fluid is maintained. "

Use the MTL. If you have winter weather shifting issues, then use the D4 ATF. Transmission are only cold for a few minutes anyway.

 

[mkosem]

Should I expect smoother shifting once the transmission warms up with the MTL? I'm just looking for the benefits here. I've heard it can also quiet down the transmission, is this true?

--Matt

 

[Rando]

I recently switched my 95 Toyota 4x4 Ext. cab to Redline in the diffs. and transmission. There is a difference. It does shift smoother and I believe It drives better due to the Redline in the differentials. I used the MTL in the transmission and the 75W90 in the front and rear diffs. I will change them again after 30,000 miles.

 

[mkosem]

Well, redline says to go with the D4 ATF because cold shifting will be stiffer with MTL. But they did not say anything about whether or not it would shift more smoothly when warmed up....

--Matt

 

[Nitrox]

When I installed a new T-5 in my Mustang, I called RedLine. BTW the T-5 requires an ATF lube. Redline said to run the D4 unless the car saw road racing, then use their MTL. I have some MTL on the shelf, but after breaking in the transmission, I put D4 in it.

 

[Mike_dup1]

quote:

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Originally posted by mkosem:
Well, redline says to go with the D4 ATF because cold shifting will be stiffer with MTL. But they did not say anything about whether or not it would shift more smoothly when warmed up....

--Matt

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There is only one way to find out and that is to put it in and drive it. What is considered smoothe by one person may not be the same by some else. The only way to get a smoothe shift it with an A/T.