Table of Contents
Which transmission fluid is thicker?
Again, manual transmission fluid must protect against wear, just like an automatic transmission fluid. Manual transmission fluid, as noted earlier, tends to be a higher viscosity than automatic transmission fluid. This helps the fluid develop a thick, durable protective film.
What’s the difference between gear oil and transmission fluid?
The simplest answer to the difference between transmission fluid and gear oil is in the purpose for which they are designed. Transmission fluid is engineered to work with automatic transmissions, whereas gear oil is typically intended to work with manual-type gear boxes.
Can I use automatic transmission fluid in a manual?
Will automatic transmission fluid work in a manual transmission? Yes – provided the original equipment manufacturer recommends it. It’s important to check your owner’s manual to make sure before dumping ATF in your manual transmission. In fact, some manuals may call for a gear lube or even a motor oil in older units.
Is transmission fluid thicker than oil?
Gear oil is also thicker than ATF because it serves mainly to lubricate the gearbox, transfer cases, and differentials. ATF does not have the thick lubrication qualities needed in a manual gearbox, and gear oil does not contain all the additives needed to smoothly run an automatic transmission.
Is transmission fluid thick or thin?
Your transmission fluid shouldn’t be too thick or sluggish. It should be pretty thin and less viscous than motor oil meaning thinner than motor oil. It is normal for the transmission fluid to get a little thicker over time through use.
What viscosity is automatic transmission fluid?
Automatic Transmission Transmission Fluid is essentially thin hydraulic oil. In order to effectively lubricate the delicate parts of the system, the viscosity of the oil is kept low – generally around 0W/5 or 5W/10.
What is the viscosity of automatic transmission fluid?
ATF III – Mineral automatic transmission fluid
| Temp. [°C] | Dyn. Viscosity [mPa.s] | Kin. Viscosity [mm²/s] |
|---|---|---|
| 40 | 30.31 | 35.55 |
| 50 | 21.53 | 25.44 |
| 60 | 15.93 | 18.97 |
| 70 | 12.18 | 14.62 |
What type of fluid does a manual transmission use?
Manual transmissions use a variety of oils: regular motor oil, heavyweight hypoid gear oil or even automatic transmission fluid in some cases. Your owner’s manual will tell you what your transmission calls for.
How are manual transmissions lubricated?
Many manual transmissions are lubricated with a heavy petroleum-based oil. When this oil breaks down, its lubricating properties break down, which can make it harder for the driver to get the transmission into gear.
Is Thicker transmission fluid better?
Your transmission fluid shouldn’t be too thick or sluggish. It should be pretty thin and less viscous than motor oil meaning thinner than motor oil.
What should manual transmission oil look like?
Manual transmission fluid, like engine oil, is generally brown to amber in color. Commonly recommended manual transmission fluid formulations include SAE 80W, 75W-90, 80W-90 and SAE 90. In some cases, a multi-grade engine oil or automatic transmission fluid may be recommended.