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1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Early Eighties Bullnose Ford Truck

Hard to Shift when Cold

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Old Nov 15, 2017 | 04:45 AM
  #1  
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Hard to Shift when Cold

My truck is a 1981 F150 Ranger with an in-line six motor and granny gear transmission (not original).


When the weather is cold (below 40, in Florida), it's difficult to shift. Once the truck is warmed-up, it's OK.


Should I change the transmission oil? With what type?


Thanks,
Oldforddy
 
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Old Nov 15, 2017 | 04:54 AM
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That would be the first thing to try. Put 80w/90w gear oil in it.
 
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Old Nov 16, 2017 | 11:24 AM
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Years ago, I switched to synthetic [75W90] for the same cold weather hard shift problem and was pleased with the difference.
 
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Old Nov 16, 2017 | 12:56 PM
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I live in Canada. On days down to -20C or -30C (-4 to -22F) I find it takes like a second and a half with decent force to move the shifter from 1st to 2nd on my np435. It can be real slow in the cold. I'm running 80w90 and its still like molasses. I wouldn't worry about it really I've never had any issues over a few winters.
 
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Old Nov 16, 2017 | 07:57 PM
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The synthetic would be a better choice if you do not mind the price.
 
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Old Nov 16, 2017 | 11:11 PM
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And GL4, not GL5.

GL5 is more 'slippery' which is good for bearing & gear life..........but that same characteristic causes shifting to be harder than with a GL4 oil.
This is because the synchro rings need friction to operate, & is a recognized issue.
 
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