I'm going to be doing a big service on my 1989 Camaro RS with The 2.8 liter v6, 5 speed manual. I've heard a lot about people using ATF, gear oil, And something called synchromesh. I am at a loss of what to use seeing as the fluid in there currently is original. What fluid Would-be the best for my vehicle? I know that AC DELCO Has a manual transmission fluid, but then I have also heard that anything but ATF will damage the transmission. Any and all help is greatly appreciated

 

ATF is what was used in these transmissions. There is no reason to use anything different.

 

Ok so dextron 3? I was going to b putting valvoline synchromesh in. Is dex 3 watbi need?

 

Yes, whatever the latest version it.

 

I think Dex is up to about 6 now... as said, just go to the store and get regular ole Dex ATF, whatever # it is these days, it'll be fine. Don't do extra work trying to outsmart yourself on something that simple.

 

Just wondering out loud...

I don't own a 3rd Gen with a manual but would a "straight" Dexron VI be preferable to a multi-vehicle ATF like Valvoline Max-Life for these transmissions?

 

The shop that rebuilt my WC T5 this past fall recommended Mobil-1 Synthetic Multi-vehicle ATF.

The last time I mentioned this, it started a wild thread...all I can say is that the rebuilder recommended it, and I've had no issues in nearly two years, and 35,000 miles.

 

Any of the above is fine.

But I would put it in the class of "outsmart yourself".

Keep it simple. While all manner of other things will "work", yerbasic Dex 6 or 9 or 15 or whatever it is this week, is all you "need". Synthetics are no doubt "better" but for the application at hand there's just not awholehelluvalot that they can bring to the party.

As far as "preferable", $7 a bottle stuff would be "preferable" to $15 a bottle stuff that you can't tell any difference in the end result. "Preference" in this case is dominated by economic realities rather than anything technical. If you could tell a difference, that would be a different matter. I've been there and done that and couldn't tell a difference.

 

Most all oils are good in the beginning. It is load, heat and how much wear that occurs that destroys manuals. The better the fluid to start with will give the longest life. According to independent oil testers, Amsoil was the best, and Redline was second. Yes, there are other good oils, and if you have had good success over the years with one, then that would most likely be a good choice. Always add strong magnetic drain and fill plugs to these as this is the only way to keep metal from recirculating unnecessarily. Price should not be a concern here. Longevity is what you are after. If you drive hard and have a lot of input torque from the motor (this is what shears the oil), changing to a better fluid and change it more often would be a good idea.

 

It's a T-5.

It's a 2.8.

We're not pushing the envelope here.