Gl-5 or gl-4
- Thread starter Espada
- Start date
Hello Espada - I think you should use GL-4, even if have to order it. GL-5 has additives which can damage the brass synchronizers in a manual transmission.
I have been very pleased with Redline MTF. It's designed for manual transmissions, and contains friction modifiers than help the synchronizers get up to speed.
Best regards!
I have been very pleased with Redline MTF. It's designed for manual transmissions, and contains friction modifiers than help the synchronizers get up to speed.
Best regards!
Better to use GL4. Newer GL5 are supposed to be compatible but many report poor shifting from GL5.
You can use fluids like these...
https://smile.amazon.com/Ravenol-J1C1001-75W-90-Gear-Semi-Synthetic/dp/B00QPDZCCW
https://smile.amazon.com/Ultralub-75W-90-Synthetic-Gear-GL-4/dp/B088ZYPJQX
https://smile.amazon.com/50304-transmision-manual-engranaje-paquete/dp/B000CPCBEQ
https://smile.amazon.com/Driven-Racing-Oil-4530-Fluid_Ounces/dp/B01MZIHGH3
You can use fluids like these...
https://smile.amazon.com/Ravenol-J1C1001-75W-90-Gear-Semi-Synthetic/dp/B00QPDZCCW
https://smile.amazon.com/Ultralub-75W-90-Synthetic-Gear-GL-4/dp/B088ZYPJQX
https://smile.amazon.com/50304-transmision-manual-engranaje-paquete/dp/B000CPCBEQ
https://smile.amazon.com/Driven-Racing-Oil-4530-Fluid_Ounces/dp/B01MZIHGH3
MolaKule
Staff member
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
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I'm trying to determine the correct differential fluid for my car. It's a BMW 1 Series.
It isn't clear if the fluid should be GL-4 or GL-5. The parts info shows a different fluid for earlier models but the differential is the same part number across all years.
Is there any harm in using one or the other?
I've asked this on a BMW forum to no avail.
It isn't clear if the fluid should be GL-4 or GL-5. The parts info shows a different fluid for earlier models but the differential is the same part number across all years.
Is there any harm in using one or the other?
I've asked this on a BMW forum to no avail.
Originally Posted by GJM120
I'm trying to determine the correct differential fluid for my car. It's a BMW 1 Series.
It isn't clear if the fluid should be GL-4 or GL-5. The parts info shows a different fluid for earlier models but the differential is the same part number across all years.
Is there any harm in using one or the other?
I've asked this on a BMW forum to no avail.
Gear oil for the diff will be GL-5. Many manual trans will call for GL-4.
I'm trying to determine the correct differential fluid for my car. It's a BMW 1 Series.
It isn't clear if the fluid should be GL-4 or GL-5. The parts info shows a different fluid for earlier models but the differential is the same part number across all years.
Is there any harm in using one or the other?
I've asked this on a BMW forum to no avail.
Gear oil for the diff will be GL-5. Many manual trans will call for GL-4.
Originally Posted by Jimzz
Originally Posted by GJM120
I'm trying to determine the correct differential fluid for my car. It's a BMW 1 Series.
It isn't clear if the fluid should be GL-4 or GL-5. The parts info shows a different fluid for earlier models but the differential is the same part number across all years.
Is there any harm in using one or the other?
I've asked this on a BMW forum to no avail.
Gear oil for the diff will be GL-5. Many manual trans will call for GL-4.
That's what I'm hoping as I changed out the fluid with GL-5. I don't think there are soft metals in the diff which I believe is where GL-5 can cause a problem.
I have to add the the fluid on one of the aftermarket vendor sites shows GL-4 for earlier cars and GL-5 for later. But, like I mentioned above, the part number is the same for all years of the car.
I think some people may be putting GL-5 in the transmission of manual cars. Mine is AT so not a concern for me.
Originally Posted by GJM120
I'm trying to determine the correct differential fluid for my car. It's a BMW 1 Series.
It isn't clear if the fluid should be GL-4 or GL-5. The parts info shows a different fluid for earlier models but the differential is the same part number across all years.
Is there any harm in using one or the other?
I've asked this on a BMW forum to no avail.
Gear oil for the diff will be GL-5. Many manual trans will call for GL-4.
That's what I'm hoping as I changed out the fluid with GL-5. I don't think there are soft metals in the diff which I believe is where GL-5 can cause a problem.
I have to add the the fluid on one of the aftermarket vendor sites shows GL-4 for earlier cars and GL-5 for later. But, like I mentioned above, the part number is the same for all years of the car.
I think some people may be putting GL-5 in the transmission of manual cars. Mine is AT so not a concern for me.
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Some full syn gear oils like RP Max Gear are rated for both GL-4 and GL-5, but my experience was that Max Gear was too slippery and synchronizer operation was almost non-existent. A swap to GL-4 Pennzoil Synchromesh, and all was fine again!
Not sure if you can find Pennzoil GL-4 transmission oil In your area.
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Here in the US, GL-5 is much more common also, but I go to the trouble of buying GL-4 online. I feel it's worth it for my Toyota manual transmission.
https://www.widman.biz/uploads/Transaxle_oil.pdf
https://www.widman.biz/uploads/Transaxle_oil.pdf
Originally Posted by JerryBob
Here in the US, GL-5 is much more common also, but I go to the trouble of buying GL-4 online. I feel it's worth it for my Toyota manual transmission.
https://www.widman.biz/uploads/Transaxle_oil.pdf
That paper is what got me searching for a GL-4 for the gearbox of my old motorcycle.
Here in the US, GL-5 is much more common also, but I go to the trouble of buying GL-4 online. I feel it's worth it for my Toyota manual transmission.
https://www.widman.biz/uploads/Transaxle_oil.pdf
That paper is what got me searching for a GL-4 for the gearbox of my old motorcycle.
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- Dec 30, 2006
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- 29,558
GL5 will ruin your synchros. Plus you'll get gear clash. If your car specs 75W50,get some Amsoil MTG or Redline MT90.
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
As Molakule suggested. My pick for that transmission...have it in two cars of my sig. Syntrans transaxle feels smoother on the long term.
Edit : maybe I presumed a bit, If you have the last gen Lancer, than I have the same Getrag transmission
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
As Molakule suggested. My pick for that transmission...have it in two cars of my sig. Syntrans transaxle feels smoother on the long term.
Edit : maybe I presumed a bit, If you have the last gen Lancer, than I have the same Getrag transmission
Originally Posted by MolaKule
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
I would add Driven GO GL-4 80w-90 to that list as well.
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
I would add Driven GO GL-4 80w-90 to that list as well.
MolaKule
Staff member
Originally Posted by RDY4WAR
Originally Posted by MolaKule
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
I would add Driven GO GL-4 80w-90 to that list as well.
Do you have a link to a comprehensive oil properties sheet or a VOA?
Originally Posted by MolaKule
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
I would add Driven GO GL-4 80w-90 to that list as well.
Do you have a link to a comprehensive oil properties sheet or a VOA?
Originally Posted by MolaKule
Originally Posted by RDY4WAR
Originally Posted by MolaKule
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
I would add Driven GO GL-4 80w-90 to that list as well.
Do you have a link to a comprehensive oil properties sheet or a VOA?
I do not. I'll see if I can get one though.
Originally Posted by RDY4WAR
Originally Posted by MolaKule
Here is a list of MTLs in the 14-15 cSt (SAE 75W90) range:
NOTE: This list is only a "summary" list of MTFs available in the MTF Lubricant Market. It is not an endorsement nor a critique of any one fluid, nor is it implied that any one fluid will cure problems in MTs that have design problems or those that have excessive wear.Â
1. Amsoil MTGÂ
2. Redline MT-90Â
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
5. Ford XT-75W90-QGT (Carries a GL-5 rating as well)
6. Ford MOTORCRAFT® Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid XT-M5-QSÂ
7. ACDelco 10-4059 GL-4 75W-90 Manual Transmission Fluid
8. RAVENOL TSG SAE 75W-9
9. LiquiMoly 75W-90 GL4
10. Pennzoil 75W90 GL-4
11. Motul Gear 300 GL-4/GL-5 (Product Number 100118)
I would add Driven GO GL-4 80w-90 to that list as well.
Do you have a link to a comprehensive oil properties sheet or a VOA?
I do not. I'll see if I can get one though.
Amazon has an MTF GL4 called Ultra-Lub for $6/qt
Other than Amazon, the easiest GL4 to obtain that's usable in a manual transmission is Liqui-Moly 20012 from Napa
Not being able to find good GL4 you can use in a non-Honda manual has been one of my worries for a long time, since I learned you can't use the GL5 that stores actually sell. It makes me afraid to buy a non-Honda manual transmission. Honda manual transmissions can use motor oil, so there is less of a problem (some parts stores even stock synchromesh MTF that is also usable in them)
Originally Posted by Snagglefoot
Not sure if you can find Pennzoil GL-4 transmission oil In your area.
I have never heard of that one before
You can find cases of it on eBay
Originally Posted by Popsy
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
As Molakule suggested. My pick for that transmission...have it in two cars of my sig. Syntrans transaxle feels smoother on the long term.
Edit : maybe I presumed a bit, If you have the last gen Lancer, than I have the same Getrag transmission
Where do you get your Castrol Syntrans?
Sometimes if you're lucky, you can find an eBay seller in Europe that will ship to the US, albeit at a high price
Other than Amazon, the easiest GL4 to obtain that's usable in a manual transmission is Liqui-Moly 20012 from Napa
Not being able to find good GL4 you can use in a non-Honda manual has been one of my worries for a long time, since I learned you can't use the GL5 that stores actually sell. It makes me afraid to buy a non-Honda manual transmission. Honda manual transmissions can use motor oil, so there is less of a problem (some parts stores even stock synchromesh MTF that is also usable in them)
Originally Posted by Snagglefoot
Not sure if you can find Pennzoil GL-4 transmission oil In your area.
I have never heard of that one before
You can find cases of it on eBay
Originally Posted by Popsy
3. Castrol Syntrans Multivehicle 75W-90
4. Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75w-90
As Molakule suggested. My pick for that transmission...have it in two cars of my sig. Syntrans transaxle feels smoother on the long term.
Edit : maybe I presumed a bit, If you have the last gen Lancer, than I have the same Getrag transmission
Where do you get your Castrol Syntrans?
Sometimes if you're lucky, you can find an eBay seller in Europe that will ship to the US, albeit at a high price
Last edited:
I have got my hands on 80w 90 Gl-4 by mannol but i have got another issue my manual calls for 2.1 liters while the oil comes in 950ml bottles so i am missing about 200ml of oil as i bought 2 bottles only are the remaining 200ml worth buying a 3rd bottle ?
Originally Posted by Espada
I have got my hands on 80w 90 Gl-4 by mannol but i have got another issue my manual calls for 2.1 liters while the oil comes in 950ml bottles so i am missing about 200ml of oil as i bought 2 bottles only are the remaining 200ml worth buying a 3rd bottle ?
Absolutely. I think running 200ml low with a 2,100ml fill is a big risk.
I have got my hands on 80w 90 Gl-4 by mannol but i have got another issue my manual calls for 2.1 liters while the oil comes in 950ml bottles so i am missing about 200ml of oil as i bought 2 bottles only are the remaining 200ml worth buying a 3rd bottle ?
Absolutely. I think running 200ml low with a 2,100ml fill is a big risk.
