TR2/3/3A TR3 Gear Oil Recommendations Needed

[toysrrus]

Hi Folks,

I`ll be installing the Engine & Drive Train back into my `57TR3 this weekend. We`ll be draining the Trans and Rear Axle. What is the best suited "GEAR OIL" for ea? My Trans is a "Non-Overdrive" unit.

Also; Would the same Gear Oil be OK for the "Steering Box"?

Thanx in Advance,

Russ

 

[TR3driver]

Lots of opinions here, Russ. I like Valvoline full synthetic gear oil (which is rated GL5) for both the differential and the steering box; but Redline MT-90 (which is only GL4) for the gearbox. Some GL5 oils contain an additive that can attack brass components over time, but the Valvoline full synthetic does not. However, it may be too slick for good synchro operation in the gearbox; while the MT-90 really makes the synchros work great.

 

[sail]

Russ, I had noticeable improved shifting with the MT-90 after Randall put me onto it.

 

[vivdownunder]

For the rear axle, Castrol Hypoy EP90 (extreme pressure) works well. OK for the steering box as well.

I've used Penrite steering lube in the steering box for many years. Being a slumping grease, it's slow to fill and takes patience to get the box completely full (so the upper race gets lubed). The beauty of this product is that once in, it stays in. Oil often leaks from the steering box over time through the stator tube olive, leaving the upper race and drive peg dry and prone to early failure.

Redline MT-90 costs an arm and a leg down here, so many use Castrol VMX80 for the gearbox which has proven to give low wear rates in competition use.

Why a gear oil for the gearbox rather than an engine oil ?. Gearboxes don't need the cleansing and cat converter saving additives found in engine oils.

Viv.

 

[sail]

Add that after a fresh rebuild and adding OD I was using Valvoline VR1 20-50. After Randall’s suggestion and conferring with Redline the MT-90 immediately improved lazy synchro action. Yes, expensive and not locally available.

 

[toysrrus]

Howdy Folks,

"Viv": That was just a Typo on Gear Oil for Trans.

"Moss" sells the "Penrite Oil" for the Steering Box. It costs $17.95 for the "Bottle / Container" they show (500ml). Is that "1" Container enough to entirely fill the Steering Box or Is that a "Lifetime" supply?

Thanx for the Input Gents,

Russ

 

[vivdownunder]

Russ, I've got two partly used containers of Penrite Steering Lube on the shelf - 500 ml must have been enough per car for a fill plus overs.

Viv