Redline in GTV-6/Spider gearbox/differential...

[JeffreyOlson@domain.elided]

In response:

I'm using Redline MTL in the gearbox and Redline 75W90 
in the differential of a '78 Spider.

A Redline tech-rep suggested 75W90NS in the gearbox and 
75W90 in the differential.  Being one to go against 
advice and already having a gallon of MTL on hand, I 
used it instead.  

I've used this combination in several old BMW 5-series 
with good results.  Synchronizer action was improved 
slightly when warm and greatly improved when cold in 
both the BMW's and the Alfa.

I will say that the Spider's gearbox does drip every now 
and then which it didn't seem to do before.  According 
to Redline, the use of a synthetic will not by itself 
cause leaks but gear oil may slip through worn seals due 
to its low viscosity.

The Redline website, www.redlineoil.com, is excellent 
and very informative.  Also a technical question about 
which to use in a Alfa Romeo was answered promptly via e-
mail.

PS  I would order a gallon size if available.  A pump is 
available to fit the gallon containers through 
aftermarket suppliers or auto parts stores.  Pep Boys 
had the exact same pump in stock for half the price of 
the pump I special-ordered!

Date: Fri, 1 Mar 2002 14:58:48 -0500
From: Joe Elliott <jee@domain.elided>
Subject: Redline gear oil, again

Okay, so I've concluded that that I should have 75W90NS 
rather than 
75W90 in my GTV6's transaxle.  My question is have I 
damaged the 
synchros by using the wrong oil for the 15,000mi that 
I've had this 
(purchased used from APE) gearbox?  Since I bought it 
performance has 
gradually worsened, and I'm wondering if this 
deterioration might 
have been avoided by using the NS oil.  If so, I'm going 
to have to 
say "F*** IAP," because, although I was tempted to come 
to their 
defense in response to the recent negative posts, they 
did sell me 
the oil that's in there, while Centerline would have 
sold me the NS 
variety.  (I didn't know anything about the oils at the 
time and 
bought from IAP because they had a better price on rear 
brake 
calipers.  Boo to recommending and selling the wrong 
oil!!)

Joe Elliott
'82 GTV6

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