Problem using 80W instead of ATF?
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Problem using 80W instead of ATF?
I've searched the forums trying to find an answer to my question but did not find the exact answer. I have replaced the clutch slave cylinder in my '93 F150 because it was leaking. While I had the transmission out I also put in a new clutch assembly. I was using a Haynes manual but really did not notice the recommended lube to use. I have the Mazda 5 spd. I had already purchased 80W lube before I started the job and used it. It did notice that the old lube looked like ATF but I really did not pay much mind to it. I have not had any problems shifting or anything. It is just a little stiff in cold weather until it warms up. I did this last fall and now I am leaking fluid and I cannot find exactly where the leak is. The 80W spreads easily so it is hard to pinpoint. At first glance it looks like it is leaking around the rear housing gasket but the leak only occurs while driving and not sitting still. My question is did I do damage to gaskets by using the 80W instead of ATF? And if I switch back to ATF can I just drain out the 80W or do I need to flush out the trasmission first? Thanks for anyone's help.
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Problem using 80W instead of ATF?
What I've heard it that ATF and gear lube are pretty similar. I think the ATF is used in transmissions that have roller bearings. Anyway, if that were mine, I'd drain the gear lube out and switch to an ATF-like lube.
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Joined: May 2002
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From: Annapolis, Maryland
Problem using 80W instead of ATF?
I'm not an authority on this, but I've always been under the impression that ATF is fairly thin, with a massive detergent/additive package, whereas gear lube is pretty simple and straightforward. I'd say just go with whatever Ford calls for.
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From: Southern California
Problem using 80W instead of ATF?
Another difference between transmissions that use gear oil and those that use transmission fluid, is that the ones that require transmission fluid often use pressurized lubrication. Those that require gear oil generaly rely on dip and splash lubrication.
It's possible that if your tranmission has a pressurized lube system, using the more viscous gear oil could have raised the pressure to the point that it is able to leak past the gaskets or seals.
I would drain the gear oil and refill with ATF. Then wipe it really clean and start looking for leaks, if any.
It's possible that if your tranmission has a pressurized lube system, using the more viscous gear oil could have raised the pressure to the point that it is able to leak past the gaskets or seals.
I would drain the gear oil and refill with ATF. Then wipe it really clean and start looking for leaks, if any.
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