I just ordered a set of Pro Series carbon synchros from Synchrotech. Are there any tips or tricks I should know before install? I know I need to soak them in trans fluid (Using Honda MTF) for a while beforehand. I'm thinking I'll let them soak for a week just to be safe. Anything else? My trans is for a B18C5, was purchased brand new from Acura, and has ~50k miles on it. I didn't think about this until right now, should I replace the synchro springs? Synchrotech doesn't say if they come with them or not.

Thanks,
Frankie

 

They won't come with springs. I generally always change them but take a good look, there's a chance the ones you have are ok. Any nicks or visual abnormalities would qualify tossing them.

 

Ok thanks!

 

No need to soak them, just thoroughly coat the inside with fluid when installing and make sure they are seated evenly. They do not come with springs.

Shift normally for as long as you can. The synchros will last longer if bedded in. Do not use Honda MTF.

 

You're the first person I've seen that says not to use Honda MTF. The usual posts are, "Use (blank) or Honda MTF". In your experiences, what's wrong with the Honda fluid?

 

He's not the only one. If you have a manual transmission Honda Fit daily driver, there is a chance I would suggest it....but otherwise it's not well suited for high performance use, high heat or high power. I say this from my own experience of observing the fluid breaking down, degrading and after inspection of many, many transmissions.

 

It is too thin and lacks proper EP additives. In layman's, it doesn't adequately protect the transmission.

 

I see guys. I'm hoping once I get the gear box open I wont find too much damage aside from the synchros. It was only crunchy on quick high RPM shifts and only a couple times. Aquafina, you replied to my thread from a little while back (maybe a month) about switching to Torco MTF and getting grinds in my ITR trans. Once I get it back together, do you suggest straight MTF or a mix with RTF?

 

If it's a low power street car, MTF. If it is turbo, high RPM (9+) or tracked, use RTF. I personally don't do the MTF/RTF mix.

 

MTF it is then lol I'll switch to RTF for track days. Thank you sir

 

We have our own Synchrotech blend MTF being made for us by Torco. It is rated GL5 and will work perfectly with Carbon Synchros for street and track use. This MTF is custom formulated to provide smooth high RPM shifts and superior gear protection over standard GL4/GL5 Manual transmission fluids. Unlike other higher rated GL5 oils our blend is yellow metal safe and will not harm brass or carbon synchros. The first 200 cases will be done next month.

 

Should I wait or use Torco MTF? Should I use any special fluid for bedding in the synchros? How many miles should I go before the first fluid change? I feel like I'm badgering but I only want to do this job once.

 

We recommend changing the fluid after a 500 mile break in. I would use Torco MTF and then change it to Synchrotech MTF (made by Torco) when it is available. We are the MFactory R&D facility and the new blend is a joint project formulated to work with Synchrotech and MFactory drive line components. We will still offer Torco RTF for dog box and hardcore full track cars but the Synchrotech Series Torco MTF will be what we have tested and suggest for the best shift quality and gear protection for street and track use.

 

Sounds good! What service intervals do you suggest for this new fluid? Or is it too early to know for sure?

 

It really depends on how you drive. For a daily driver follow the Honda guidelines but for performance use I suggest to change it once a year.

 

Ok, Thanks!

 

I'm curious what your opinion is on Honda MTF ?

I would say honest opinion but I think that would come off wrongly.

 

Honda MTF is crap. The only time it's acceptable to use is if the car is stock power and never goes over 3-4,000 RPM and is shifted normally.

Change every 7,000 miles, track cars will need to change every 3-7 track events. Drag cars can make it a full season if the trans lasts that long.