The Ford Barn

31 ford · 02-28-2019, 12:24 PM

What is the best lubrication when changing the fluid in the transmission and also the rear differential ? I am wondering if I should stay with 600 weight oil or use something better. THANK YOU.

Smooth_One · 02-28-2019, 12:50 PM

I would stay with 600W.

whirnot · 02-28-2019, 12:56 PM

Unless you have a Mitchell transmission, Stay with 600W. But it isn't 600 weight oil.

Werner · 02-28-2019, 01:40 PM

I suppose for both gears 600-er industry machine oil that is slightly additized.

In addition MoS2 comes in the gear box, which is good if sometimes you shift noisily (teeth scratching).

Terry, NJ · 02-28-2019, 01:50 PM

Some like the 600w (which is about 240W) and that not a bad idea. You probably won't go wrong with it. However, some of the workable and working concoctions being used out there with good results are as follows, 100% STP, Certain "Steam Cylinder Oils", Lucas Hub oil, and others! All will work to some degree. I can't verify this, but I have heard that at least one vendor mixes his oils 50-50 with STP. When you're choosing an oil, it not only must lubricate the gears, but it must slow down the gears to allow shifting and it must stay in the trans case and not leak out.
Terry

WHN · 02-28-2019, 03:41 PM

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We have been using 50/50 mix of STP and 600w oil from Mac’s.

The last bottle of 600w oil that we received from Mac’s looked and felt like STP.

31 ford · 02-28-2019, 05:41 PM

Thank you all for your replies . I appreciate all suggestions. Thank you

Synchro909 · 02-28-2019, 05:52 PM

Dose anybody use an EP oil in the diff? I see no reason why a modern EP (extreme Pressure) oil souldn't be used. It is lighter viscosity and will do a better job. If the sorts of oil referred to above work, I think a 85 or 90 grade GL4 or GL5 would be more than OK.
Comments other than the usual "If Henry did it that way, I'll do it that way"? If EP oils were available to Henry, he'd have used them, I'm sure so why shouldn't we? I understand that the thicker oil in the gearbox makes changing down easier but there are no such considerations for the diff.

Patrick L. · 02-28-2019, 07:15 PM

I think the 600W, 140wgt or 250 wgt will work just fine.

Joe K · 02-28-2019, 07:16 PM

100 percent STP.

Yeah - I know. It's not a lubricant.

Funny. It seems to think it is.

Joe K

redmodelt · 02-28-2019, 07:51 PM

You really do not want a lighter viscosity, the 600 or it's equal works fine. Part of having a thicker lube it as was said above is for shifting the straight cut teeth on the gears, it kinda slows them down. That being said, you can put what ever OIL in your box that you want, it's yours to mess with. 2ed, straight cut gears require different lube then the newer helix cut gears boxes and trying to compare them is apples and oranges.

100IH · 02-28-2019, 08:34 PM

I'll put it this way, STP does a good job of not being a lubricant. Steam cylinder oil got us through the first 60 years just fine. Other concoctions might suffice. Look at it this way, pretty soon no one will be able to get steam cylinder oil, right. You will have missed a chance to know. Those steam guys are probably cornering the market as we speak. Washtay.

GPierce · 02-28-2019, 08:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Synchro909

Dose anybody use an EP oil in the diff? I see no reason why a modern EP (extreme Pressure) oil souldn't be used. It is lighter viscosity and will do a better job. If the sorts of oil referred to above work, I think a 85 or 90 grade GL4 or GL5 would be more than OK.
Comments other than the usual "If Henry did it that way, I'll do it that way"? If EP oils were available to Henry, he'd have used them, I'm sure so why shouldn't we? I understand that the thicker oil in the gearbox makes changing down easier but there are no such considerations for the diff.

I use Mobile 600 XP Extreme pressure oil designed for heavily loaded spur and helical gears. It’s equivalent to SAE 140. Used in the tranny and diffy. No gear grinding with a slight hesitation when shifting or when double clutching.

Railcarmover · 02-28-2019, 10:03 PM

https://www.redlineoil.com/80w250-gl-5-gear-oil-2

80W250 GL-5 GEAR OIL
Recommended for SAE 250 or where SAE 140 does not provide adequate protection
Alternative to Red Line Heavy Shockproof® in problem Nitro Drag Race Vehicles
Can be used in Model A, Model T vehicles and Antique/Classic cars calling for 600W
Reduces noise levels in Morgan 3 Wheeler bevel boxes
Excellent for off road use where SAE 250 is required

API GL-5 is an engineering standard,API stands for american petroleum institute.SAE for society of automotive engineers.API GL-5 standard:
Gear Oil GL-5 delivers value through: ... The sulfur-phosphorus extreme pressure additive technology used in Gear Oil GL-5 provides good thermal and oxidation stability. In addition, this lubricant is fortified with rust and corrosion inhibitors, a foam inhibitor, and a pour point depressant.

Use a 250w in trans,85/90 GL-5 is fine for the rear axle.

Synchro909 · 02-28-2019, 11:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Railcarmover

https://www.redlineoil.com/80w250-gl-5-gear-oil-2

80W250 GL-5 GEAR OIL
Recommended for SAE 250 or where SAE 140 does not provide adequate protection
Alternative to Red Line Heavy Shockproof® in problem Nitro Drag Race Vehicles
Can be used in Model A, Model T vehicles and Antique/Classic cars calling for 600W
Reduces noise levels in Morgan 3 Wheeler bevel boxes
Excellent for off road use where SAE 250 is required

API GL-5 is an engineering standard,API stands for american petroleum institute.SAE for society of automotive engineers.API GL-5 standard:
Gear Oil GL-5 delivers value through: ... The sulfur-phosphorus extreme pressure additive technology used in Gear Oil GL-5 provides good thermal and oxidation stability. In addition, this lubricant is fortified with rust and corrosion inhibitors, a foam inhibitor, and a pour point depressant.

Use a 250w in trans,85/90 GL-5 is fine for the rear axle.

Exactly what I was proposing.

JBill · 02-28-2019, 11:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Synchro909

Dose anybody use an EP oil in the diff? I see no reason why a modern EP (extreme Pressure) oil souldn't be used. It is lighter viscosity and will do a better job. If the sorts of oil referred to above work, I think a 85 or 90 grade GL4 or GL5 would be more than OK.
Comments other than the usual "If Henry did it that way, I'll do it that way"? If EP oils were available to Henry, he'd have used them, I'm sure so why shouldn't we? I understand that the thicker oil in the gearbox makes changing down easier but there are no such considerations for the diff.

I'd be a little concerned that too-thin lubricant would work its way past the seals. I don't think they're intended for light oil.

midgetracer · 02-28-2019, 11:06 PM

I have a can of 600W from back in the 30's. It is much blacker and viscous than the current 600W from suppliers. I tried to use some, but it was almost impossible to dispense into a differential. It resembled the crap I have to clean out when I rebuild a differential.

Railcarmover · 02-28-2019, 11:25 PM

The 600w the vendors sell doesnt have an API or an SAE rating,hard to tell what your buying.The model A rear axle uses the same components and tolerances as a modern rear axle,the 85/90 GL-5 spec meets the demand.

SAE 250wt (600w) is used to help slow the spur gears down to meshing speed in the A transmission.A high compression head increases shift speed by allowing the engine to rev up and down quicker,I've yet to experiment with 85/90 GL5 with the high compression head I use,but I imagine the difference will be negligible..GL 5's higher pressure means it stands the load of meshing gears without wiping off the surface negating the weight advantage of the 600w. .

Terry, NJ · 03-01-2019, 08:00 AM

The transmission is one thing while the rear end is another! What works in the transmission may not work well in the rear end. Frsintance, the rear gears are in constant mesh and don't have shifting issues. So why can't we use a lighter oil and reduce some of the internal resistance. I frequently notice that model A owners will use the same lubricant in both the transmission and differential. I'm not saying this is wrong, but you're dealing with two different mechanical systems with different needs.
Terry

Terry, NJ · 03-01-2019, 08:15 AM

Lubricants other than GL-1 are not recommended for transmissions with yellow metal bearings. The sulphur is detrimental to the copper in the yellow metal (Brass, bronze). Fortunately, there are no yellow metals in a model A trans or rear end. BUT there are Bronze bushings in the steering boxes.
Terry

Quote:

Originally Posted by Railcarmover

https://www.redlineoil.com/80w250-gl-5-gear-oil-2

80W250 GL-5 GEAR OIL
Recommended for SAE 250 or where SAE 140 does not provide adequate protection
Alternative to Red Line Heavy Shockproof® in problem Nitro Drag Race Vehicles
Can be used in Model A, Model T vehicles and Antique/Classic cars calling for 600W
Reduces noise levels in Morgan 3 Wheeler bevel boxes
Excellent for off road use where SAE 250 is required

API GL-5 is an engineering standard,API stands for american petroleum institute.SAE for society of automotive engineers.API GL-5 standard:
Gear Oil GL-5 delivers value through: ... The sulfur-phosphorus extreme pressure additive technology used in Gear Oil GL-5 provides good thermal and oxidation stability. In addition, this lubricant is fortified with rust and corrosion inhibitors, a foam inhibitor, and a pour point depressant.

Use a 250w in trans,85/90 GL-5 is fine for the rear axle.

eagle · 03-01-2019, 08:49 AM

Lucas oil stabilizer makes a huge difference in how the transmission feels. Gives the gearshift a silky smooth feel. Night and day difference over 600w. Several years ago I changed out the transmission fluid with new 600w, didnt feel any difference over the old goo that had been in there for who knows how long. Ran it for a while but then tried lucas. Amazing difference.

Railcarmover · 03-01-2019, 09:17 AM

It would be interesting to see what the viscosity of the off the shelf 600w is at operating temperature.I do know foaming in an issue.STP and other additives are not tested for pressure,in other words,even though its thick it might not handle the tooth on tooth contact pressure of engaged gears under load,possibly ending up with accelerated wear.That's where the API designation is critical,it tells you,by testing, how the oil handles the actual condition its under,way more scientific than looking at it and approving it by how thick it is.

BILL WILLIAMSON · 03-01-2019, 12:11 PM

Straight 90-or 140-W has served us well for YEARS & YEARS!!! CASE CLOSED!
Bill W.

Railcarmover · 03-01-2019, 12:24 PM

Muskets served us well till the rifled barrel was developed...grasping new technology and understanding its value helps keep the car alive.

Synchro909 · 03-01-2019, 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Terry, NJ

The transmission is one thing while the rear end is another! What works in the transmission may not work well in the rear end. Frsintance, the rear gears are in constant mesh and don't have shifting issues. So why can't we use a lighter oil and reduce some of the internal resistance. I frequently notice that model A owners will use the same lubricant in both the transmission and differential. I'm not saying this is wrong, but you're dealing with two different mechanical systems with different needs.
Terry

That is what is behind my thinking too. I'd expect using the more modern oil might give longer life and slightly improve performance because there is less drag in the diff. I also agree with what you say about not using anything more than GL1 with bronze bearings or bushes. The sulphides in those oils eat bronze.

vonheine · 03-02-2019, 07:43 AM

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The Model A parts suppliers are not in the lubrication industry. They are not formulating or making the oil. They do commonly re-package the lubricant from bulk and place their label and name on it for sale. Many of the modern lubricants are harmful to old gear boxes and differentials because they will destroy bronze bushings, thrust washers, or spacers, anything made of brass or bronze. Most modern equipment doesn’t have any bronze parts so the new lubricants are fine for modern equipment. However, there are lubricant companies that do make excellent modern lubricants for Model A, AA, Ford transmissions, gear boxes, and differentials. Lubriplate makes SPO-288 which is perfect for Model A, and AA transmissions, steering boxes, and differentials. There are other companies that make similar products, but Lubriplate SPO-288 is my choice.

vonheine · 03-02-2019, 08:08 AM

Absolutely correct about lubrication needs for modern helical gears are very different than lubrication needs for spur gears. (Apples and Oranges)

redmodelt · 03-02-2019, 03:10 PM

Except for the 2 bronze thrust washers in the 1928 transmissions and reverse idler gear brass bushing used all years, there is no brass/bronze to worry about in the stock A transmission or rear end.

Synchro909 · 03-02-2019, 04:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by redmodelt

Except for the 2 bronze thrust washers in the 1928 transmissions and reverse idler gear brass bushing used all years, there is no brass/bronze to worry about in the stock A transmission or rear end.

Replace those thrust washers with hardened steel ones and you'd be fine with an EP oil but I still wouldn't do it. I think the thinner oil would make changing more difficult.

apbright · 03-03-2019, 02:47 AM

Petroleum Services Company (no business relationship to me) offer 600W oil in five gallon pails for a bit over $100. I've bought one, and if I use it all, I will be grateful for my own longevity.

https://petroleumservicecompany.com/...xoC2iwQAvD_BwE

Brian in Wheeling · 03-03-2019, 09:54 AM

Lubri-plate SPO-288 is really a great product for the transmission.
Brian

katy · 03-03-2019, 11:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vonheine

Many of the modern lubricants are harmful to old gear boxes and differentials because they will destroy bronze bushings, thrust washers, or spacers, anything made of brass or bronze.

I've heard this rumor for years, so a number of years ago, for an experiment, I put a bronze synchronizer ring in a glass jar w/90-140 gear oil and let it sit for a couple of years and nothing happened to either the ring or the oil.

redmodelt · 03-03-2019, 01:03 PM

Noting will happen just sitting in a jar. What happens is, the additives bind at the molecular level with the brass and as the steel parts rub they are sheered off taking the brass with them.

Railcarmover · 03-03-2019, 01:32 PM

Getting down to the molecular level,synthetic blends have consistent molecule size,where 'dinosaur' oil the molecule size is random.This basic difference is what makes synthetic oils superior to dino oils,chaining viscosity modifiers and load additives to synthetic oils is precise,leading to less 'oil breakdown',the breakdown of the additives bind to the molecule. That,plus the lower friction associated with consistent sized molecules is why synthetic oils are superior.

vonheine · 03-04-2019, 01:01 AM

I am working on a 1930 AA truck. The differential has a brass thrust plate that the ring gear pushes against to prevent the ring gear from wobbling in the case when it’s torqued up under a heavy load. Also, depending upon what parts are available, there are spiders gears for these trucks that use 4 bronze shims under the pinions. (BB parts, suitable for use) The AA four speed uses a bronze bushing on the reverse idler gear. This is why I am avoiding lubricants that attack yellow metals.

Tom Wesenberg · 03-04-2019, 08:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vonheine

I am working on a 1930 AA truck. The differential has a brass thrust plate that the ring gear pushes against to prevent the ring gear from wobbling in the case when it’s torqued up under a heavy load. Also, depending upon what parts are available, there are spiders gears for these trucks that use 4 bronze shims under the pinions. (BB parts, suitable for use) The AA four speed uses a bronze bushing on the reverse idler gear. This is why I am avoiding lubricants that attack yellow metals.

I do the same for my Model A's and Studebakers.

GPierce · 03-04-2019, 11:24 AM

How do you know a certain lubricant has additives that will attack yellow metals?

I found the Copper Strip ASTMD130,3hrs@ 100oC for the gear oil I am using to be 1B which is light tarnish. It took a lot of digging to find it . It’s not somthing you find when you go shopping at Autozone for gear oil.

Tom Wesenberg · 03-04-2019, 11:29 PM

I bought a gallon of GL-1 from NAPA. They had to order it, but had it in 3 hours.

BILL WILLIAMSON · 03-06-2019, 07:36 AM

SO, with the WRONG Gear Oil, it'll wear the bronze bushings in only 37 YEARS---LOL
Bill Deadallready

Railcarmover · 03-07-2019, 09:13 AM

The GL-5 issue is with bronze synchronizers.The merits of high pressure high load GL-5 far outweigh the potential issue,which is non existent in a model a.Current GL-5 has been buffered to eliminate this rare issue..but hey,I use modern sealants and engine oils too..

Purdy Swoft · 03-07-2019, 12:07 PM

As for STP oil treatment , The last bottle that I got , the label stated that it is a lubricant . The model A transmission and backends are very forgiving . Just about any heavy gear lubricant will work in the model A transmission . I have used the mixed version gear oil sold by model A parts vendors with good results . I also have used straight STP , Lucas oil stabilizer or straight 90 weight gear oil with good results and no problems .

02-28-2019, 12:24 PM	#1
31 ford Member Join Date: Aug 2018 Posts: 39	Best lubrication for transmission ? What is the best lubrication when changing the fluid in the transmission and also the rear differential ? I am wondering if I should stay with 600 weight oil or use something better. THANK YOU.

02-28-2019, 12:50 PM	#2
Smooth_One Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: St Clair, Michigan Posts: 395	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I would stay with 600W. __________________ Isaiah B. 1928 all metal Tudor

02-28-2019, 12:56 PM	#3
whirnot Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2013 Location: Bend Or. Posts: 1,057	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Unless you have a Mitchell transmission, Stay with 600W. But it isn't 600 weight oil. __________________ Bill Worden 1929 Roadster 1929 Briggs Town Sedan 1930 Closed Cab pickup Smith Motor Compressor 1951 Ford F1 High Desert Model A's

02-28-2019, 01:40 PM	#4
Werner Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2019 Location: Germany, near Aachen Posts: 1,159	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I suppose for both gears 600-er industry machine oil that is slightly additized. In addition MoS2 comes in the gear box, which is good if sometimes you shift noisily (teeth scratching). __________________ Beste Gruesse aus Deutschland, Werner Ford Model A, Roadster, 1928 Citroen 11 CV, 1947 Hercules W 2000, 1976; (with NSU-Wankel Rotary Engine), Canadian version

02-28-2019, 01:50 PM	#5
Terry, NJ Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Bucks Co, Pa Posts: 3,740	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Some like the 600w (which is about 240W) and that not a bad idea. You probably won't go wrong with it. However, some of the workable and working concoctions being used out there with good results are as follows, 100% STP, Certain "Steam Cylinder Oils", Lucas Hub oil, and others! All will work to some degree. I can't verify this, but I have heard that at least one vendor mixes his oils 50-50 with STP. When you're choosing an oil, it not only must lubricate the gears, but it must slow down the gears to allow shifting and it must stay in the trans case and not leak out. Terry

02-28-2019, 03:41 PM	#6
WHN Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2017 Location: Connecticut Shoreline Posts: 1,824	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) We have been using 50/50 mix of STP and 600w oil from Mac’s. The last bottle of 600w oil that we received from Mac’s looked and felt like STP.

02-28-2019, 05:41 PM	#7
31 ford Member Join Date: Aug 2018 Posts: 39	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Thank you all for your replies . I appreciate all suggestions. Thank you

02-28-2019, 05:52 PM	#8
Synchro909 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 7,496	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Dose anybody use an EP oil in the diff? I see no reason why a modern EP (extreme Pressure) oil souldn't be used. It is lighter viscosity and will do a better job. If the sorts of oil referred to above work, I think a 85 or 90 grade GL4 or GL5 would be more than OK. Comments other than the usual "If Henry did it that way, I'll do it that way"? If EP oils were available to Henry, he'd have used them, I'm sure so why shouldn't we? I understand that the thicker oil in the gearbox makes changing down easier but there are no such considerations for the diff. __________________ I'm part of the only ever generation with an analogue childhood and a digital adulthood.

02-28-2019, 07:15 PM	#9
Patrick L. Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Largo Florida Posts: 7,225	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I think the 600W, 140wgt or 250 wgt will work just fine.

02-28-2019, 07:16 PM	#10
Joe K Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Cow Hampshire Posts: 4,188	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? 100 percent STP. Yeah - I know. It's not a lubricant. Funny. It seems to think it is. Joe K __________________ Shudda kept the horse.

02-28-2019, 07:51 PM	#11
redmodelt Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Portland OR Posts: 6,341	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? You really do not want a lighter viscosity, the 600 or it's equal works fine. Part of having a thicker lube it as was said above is for shifting the straight cut teeth on the gears, it kinda slows them down. That being said, you can put what ever OIL in your box that you want, it's yours to mess with. 2ed, straight cut gears require different lube then the newer helix cut gears boxes and trying to compare them is apples and oranges. __________________ I know the voices aren't real but damn they have some good ideas!

02-28-2019, 08:34 PM	#12
100IH Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: SW Idaho Posts: 970	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I'll put it this way, STP does a good job of not being a lubricant. Steam cylinder oil got us through the first 60 years just fine. Other concoctions might suffice. Look at it this way, pretty soon no one will be able to get steam cylinder oil, right. You will have missed a chance to know. Those steam guys are probably cornering the market as we speak. Washtay.

02-28-2019, 10:03 PM	#14
Railcarmover BANNED Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sacramento Posts: 1,262	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? https://www.redlineoil.com/80w250-gl-5-gear-oil-2 80W250 GL-5 GEAR OIL Recommended for SAE 250 or where SAE 140 does not provide adequate protection Alternative to Red Line Heavy Shockproof® in problem Nitro Drag Race Vehicles Can be used in Model A, Model T vehicles and Antique/Classic cars calling for 600W Reduces noise levels in Morgan 3 Wheeler bevel boxes Excellent for off road use where SAE 250 is required API GL-5 is an engineering standard,API stands for american petroleum institute.SAE for society of automotive engineers.API GL-5 standard: Gear Oil GL-5 delivers value through: ... The sulfur-phosphorus extreme pressure additive technology used in Gear Oil GL-5 provides good thermal and oxidation stability. In addition, this lubricant is fortified with rust and corrosion inhibitors, a foam inhibitor, and a pour point depressant. Use a 250w in trans,85/90 GL-5 is fine for the rear axle. Last edited by Railcarmover; 02-28-2019 at 10:11 PM.

02-28-2019, 11:06 PM	#17
midgetracer Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Bismarck ND Posts: 1,189	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I have a can of 600W from back in the 30's. It is much blacker and viscous than the current 600W from suppliers. I tried to use some, but it was almost impossible to dispense into a differential. It resembled the crap I have to clean out when I rebuild a differential.

02-28-2019, 11:25 PM	#18
Railcarmover BANNED Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sacramento Posts: 1,262	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? The 600w the vendors sell doesnt have an API or an SAE rating,hard to tell what your buying.The model A rear axle uses the same components and tolerances as a modern rear axle,the 85/90 GL-5 spec meets the demand. SAE 250wt (600w) is used to help slow the spur gears down to meshing speed in the A transmission.A high compression head increases shift speed by allowing the engine to rev up and down quicker,I've yet to experiment with 85/90 GL5 with the high compression head I use,but I imagine the difference will be negligible..GL 5's higher pressure means it stands the load of meshing gears without wiping off the surface negating the weight advantage of the 600w. .

03-01-2019, 08:00 AM	#19
Terry, NJ Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Bucks Co, Pa Posts: 3,740	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? The transmission is one thing while the rear end is another! What works in the transmission may not work well in the rear end. Frsintance, the rear gears are in constant mesh and don't have shifting issues. So why can't we use a lighter oil and reduce some of the internal resistance. I frequently notice that model A owners will use the same lubricant in both the transmission and differential. I'm not saying this is wrong, but you're dealing with two different mechanical systems with different needs. Terry

03-01-2019, 08:49 AM	#21
eagle Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Eagle Bend, MN Posts: 2,025	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Lucas oil stabilizer makes a huge difference in how the transmission feels. Gives the gearshift a silky smooth feel. Night and day difference over 600w. Several years ago I changed out the transmission fluid with new 600w, didnt feel any difference over the old goo that had been in there for who knows how long. Ran it for a while but then tried lucas. Amazing difference. __________________ "There are some that can destroy an anvil with a teaspoon and shouldn't be allowed to touch anything resembling a tool."

03-01-2019, 09:17 AM	#22
Railcarmover BANNED Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sacramento Posts: 1,262	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? It would be interesting to see what the viscosity of the off the shelf 600w is at operating temperature.I do know foaming in an issue.STP and other additives are not tested for pressure,in other words,even though its thick it might not handle the tooth on tooth contact pressure of engaged gears under load,possibly ending up with accelerated wear.That's where the API designation is critical,it tells you,by testing, how the oil handles the actual condition its under,way more scientific than looking at it and approving it by how thick it is.

03-01-2019, 12:11 PM	#23
BILL WILLIAMSON Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: FRESNO, CA Posts: 12,560	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Straight 90-or 140-W has served us well for YEARS & YEARS!!! CASE CLOSED! Bill W. __________________ "THE ASSISTANT GURU OF STUFF"

03-01-2019, 12:24 PM	#24
Railcarmover BANNED Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sacramento Posts: 1,262	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Muskets served us well till the rifled barrel was developed...grasping new technology and understanding its value helps keep the car alive.

03-02-2019, 07:43 AM	#26
vonheine Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2018 Posts: 14	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) The Model A parts suppliers are not in the lubrication industry. They are not formulating or making the oil. They do commonly re-package the lubricant from bulk and place their label and name on it for sale. Many of the modern lubricants are harmful to old gear boxes and differentials because they will destroy bronze bushings, thrust washers, or spacers, anything made of brass or bronze. Most modern equipment doesn’t have any bronze parts so the new lubricants are fine for modern equipment. However, there are lubricant companies that do make excellent modern lubricants for Model A, AA, Ford transmissions, gear boxes, and differentials. Lubriplate makes SPO-288 which is perfect for Model A, and AA transmissions, steering boxes, and differentials. There are other companies that make similar products, but Lubriplate SPO-288 is my choice.

03-02-2019, 08:08 AM	#27
vonheine Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2018 Posts: 14	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Absolutely correct about lubrication needs for modern helical gears are very different than lubrication needs for spur gears. (Apples and Oranges)

03-02-2019, 03:10 PM	#28
redmodelt Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Portland OR Posts: 6,341	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Except for the 2 bronze thrust washers in the 1928 transmissions and reverse idler gear brass bushing used all years, there is no brass/bronze to worry about in the stock A transmission or rear end. __________________ I know the voices aren't real but damn they have some good ideas!

03-03-2019, 02:47 AM	#30
apbright Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: San Francisco, CA Posts: 169	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Petroleum Services Company (no business relationship to me) offer 600W oil in five gallon pails for a bit over $100. I've bought one, and if I use it all, I will be grateful for my own longevity. https://petroleumservicecompany.com/...xoC2iwQAvD_BwE

03-03-2019, 09:54 AM	#31
Brian in Wheeling Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Wheeling, WV - U.S.A. Posts: 241	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Lubri-plate SPO-288 is really a great product for the transmission. Brian

03-03-2019, 01:03 PM	#33
redmodelt Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Portland OR Posts: 6,341	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Noting will happen just sitting in a jar. What happens is, the additives bind at the molecular level with the brass and as the steel parts rub they are sheered off taking the brass with them. __________________ I know the voices aren't real but damn they have some good ideas!

03-03-2019, 01:32 PM	#34
Railcarmover BANNED Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sacramento Posts: 1,262	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? Getting down to the molecular level,synthetic blends have consistent molecule size,where 'dinosaur' oil the molecule size is random.This basic difference is what makes synthetic oils superior to dino oils,chaining viscosity modifiers and load additives to synthetic oils is precise,leading to less 'oil breakdown',the breakdown of the additives bind to the molecule. That,plus the lower friction associated with consistent sized molecules is why synthetic oils are superior.

03-04-2019, 01:01 AM	#35
vonheine Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2018 Posts: 14	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I am working on a 1930 AA truck. The differential has a brass thrust plate that the ring gear pushes against to prevent the ring gear from wobbling in the case when it’s torqued up under a heavy load. Also, depending upon what parts are available, there are spiders gears for these trucks that use 4 bronze shims under the pinions. (BB parts, suitable for use) The AA four speed uses a bronze bushing on the reverse idler gear. This is why I am avoiding lubricants that attack yellow metals.

03-04-2019, 11:24 AM	#37
GPierce Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: Germantown,TN Posts: 516	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? How do you know a certain lubricant has additives that will attack yellow metals? I found the Copper Strip ASTMD130,3hrs@ 100oC for the gear oil I am using to be 1B which is light tarnish. It took a lot of digging to find it . It’s not somthing you find when you go shopping at Autozone for gear oil.

03-04-2019, 11:29 PM	#38
Tom Wesenberg Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Mpls, MN Posts: 27,582	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? I bought a gallon of GL-1 from NAPA. They had to order it, but had it in 3 hours.

03-06-2019, 07:36 AM	#39
BILL WILLIAMSON Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: FRESNO, CA Posts: 12,560	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? SO, with the WRONG Gear Oil, it'll wear the bronze bushings in only 37 YEARS---LOL Bill Deadallready __________________ "THE ASSISTANT GURU OF STUFF"

03-07-2019, 09:13 AM	#40
Railcarmover BANNED Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Sacramento Posts: 1,262	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? The GL-5 issue is with bronze synchronizers.The merits of high pressure high load GL-5 far outweigh the potential issue,which is non existent in a model a.Current GL-5 has been buffered to eliminate this rare issue..but hey,I use modern sealants and engine oils too..

03-07-2019, 12:07 PM	#41
Purdy Swoft Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Alabama Posts: 8,099	Re: Best lubrication for transmission ? As for STP oil treatment , The last bottle that I got , the label stated that it is a lubricant . The model A transmission and backends are very forgiving . Just about any heavy gear lubricant will work in the model A transmission . I have used the mixed version gear oil sold by model A parts vendors with good results . I also have used straight STP , Lucas oil stabilizer or straight 90 weight gear oil with good results and no problems .