so today i want to change my manual transmisson fluid. i have a few different grinds in a couple gears. ive been doing some research and its all telling me to use GM synchromesh. but i cant find anywhere.

although, at my local Oreilly auto parts they sell a penzoil version of the same stuff. does it work just as good??

and how much would i need for a 1997 honda civic??

 

anybody know anything??

 

you bumped it after 8 minutes?

have you tried google I bet that would work.

 

ya sorry about thatt. i did some research. i just want some feedback to my own question.. i just wanna know what people think of it here.

 

Try the Bob is the Oil Guy website too .... lots of very, very knowledgeable people on there.

 

You can use the Pennzoil brand. I've used it with no ill effects. You can find it for sure at Autozone or Oreilly Auto Parts (I prefer to shop at Oreilly).

 

The pennzoil is not the same as the GM synchromesh. The friction modified variant is the one people use to help with minor grinds

 

You need to get GM Synchromesh w/ Friction Modifier


If you don't get the FM stuff, don't bother.


The fluid is actually made by Castrol, and they call it "Syn-torque".. But you cant just go get it.. Its sold by the barrel..


I can say I did notice a difference... Don't expect a miracle, but it does work good.

I especially noticed a huge noise reduction in reverse..


Its not much more expensive than Honda MTF... So I say go for it.

 

Why would you need a friction modifier?
Running a LSD?

 

Friction modifier is not just a term used with limited slip fluids..... Its used in other things where friction disc's are not present.


Even Honda MTF has friction modified chemicals added...


Friction modifier makes things slippery... If you want to put it that way.

 

i have to disagree with the NEED to get friction modified.


when my 98 civic ex developed a 3rd gear grind over 4000rpm, i put 2 quarts of gm synchromesh (regular stuff, not fm). my grind disappeared as long as i didnt throw it into 3rd. it really helped out.

 

Sometimes you can mask a minor grind with a different fluid, but it will come back eventually and it may cost more to fix at that point. What starts out a worn sleeve ends up being a completely trashed sleeve, scratched up hub and worn engagement teeth on the gear itself.