A few days ago I replaced all my driveline fluids with Redline. I don't have access to a dyno so here is what I did. I waited until late night to have an empty freeway where I could set the cruise control and maintain a constant 60mph over 5 miles. I would then reset the trip computer's MPG feature and take the average MPG reading at the end of the run. For baseline purposes my car had Mobil 1, but the tranny and rear end were stock. The 2 way times (ran it twice both ways) average was 29.1 mpg of two runs. Now with all fluids changed to Redline, 10W30 for the engine, Lightweight Shockproof for the tranny and 75W90 for the rear end. The result 31.8mpg. Temperatures were within 1 degree and tire inflation and gas level (started with a full tank) were the same. I don't know how scientifically valid my test was, but I am convinced.

 

MTL or MT-90??? Did you throw a bottle of Water Wetter in also???

 

Neither, it was "Lightweight Shockproof" just like VandyZ. No water wetter.

 

Just curious why Shockproof was chosen over MTL???

 

It was a worthy idea to try controlling the variables during your trials. Unfortunately, even a slight change in wind direction and velocity could have accounted for the MPG increase by the second run.

I plan to run Valvoline Synthetic 5W-30 in my motor and a blend of MTL and MTL-90 in the gearbox. Not sure of what I'll try in the diff.

 

How was the shifter feel? How will the LW Shockproof stand up to cold temps?

 

The shockproof is so much better in the cold. That was what promted this entire fluid change was the notchiness in the gearbox on these recent cold mornings here in SoCal. The shockproof eliminates it completely. Very slick now. The real test will be a dyno run soon.

 

At least someone was paying attention! J/K I cant say that I noticed a difference because I changed at end of break in (in other words, I dont know what it was really like before the change).

I think there is a thread about "Why Lightweight Shockproof?" with a full explaination by "Dougrace Zs"

 

Thanks for the test results. I too love the redline fluids for the tranny and rear end -- great stuff.

I noticed that your best MPG at 60-mph was like 31mpg?
My Z is getting like 36-37 mpg at 60mph in 6th gear and about 32mpg in 5th.

What gear were you cruising in?

 

What do you mean by 'rear end'?

Thanks!

 

Differentials

 

That was a great test the fact that you went both ways kinda elliminates the wind factor.Iwish we had you here in Nashville cause I got all kinds of test to run just don't have time. Way to go Steve

 

Question for those who've drained the tranny and diff --
do you have to remove any underbody panels to access the drain/fill plugs?
Thanks,
Mika

 

only for motor oil

 

Hey fdao,
Yes, I admit, I know very little about cars in general. But for you to display the 'confused' picture is uncalled for. I thought these forums were for everyone to learn from-both pro and novice. I am definately the latter. But I have learned alot thanks to all of you guys! Furthermore, I have been taught and believe that no question is to stupid, only the one not asked. If this forum believes differently, let me know.

Otherwise, thanks for all your help!

 

Uro,

perhaps he put the confusey-face there because he wan't sure either.

Just something to think about....

-D'oh!

 

D'oh,
Thanks for your response. Point well taken. I think your probably right.

 

Uro,

D'oh is correct in his assumption

 

Steve,

How much oil did it take to fill the trans?

Where is the fill plug?

How hard was it to get the fill plug off and refill the trans?

On some other cars I have had filling the trans is a huge pain.

Thanks for the info.

 

I replaced my transmission oil today with Redline Lightweight Shockproof & the differential oil with Redline 75W90. I have 2600 miles on the car.

It didn't completely get rid of the notchiness in the tranny, but it did give it a smoother, lighter feel (and I think it's quieter, too). I was hoping for complete elimination of the notchy feel in the shift, but I guess that will only go away with wear. Now that I have the Shockproof in there, though, I feel more comfortable being more forceful in the shifts.

I tried reproducing Raceboy's experiment:

I filled up with gas, got on I-540 & set the cruise to 79. As I passed a certain point I reset the mileage indicator. I drove smoothly 5.3 miles (to my exit) and it said 23.3 MPG. After the change I topped off the tank at the same station and did the same thing again, the mileage indicator said 24.4 MPG for an increase of 1.1 MPG. Unfortunately, it was 10-12 degrees warmer for the second test, which I think would slightly degrade my mileage and lessen the reported improvement in mileage. Raceboy claimed 2.7 MPG increase but he also replaced the engine oil (which I did not) so it seems to me that we saw pretty much the same result.

BTW: I had a bunch of metallic fur on the magnet in the differential drain plug. I was disappointed that there wasn't also a magnet in the tranny drain plug. I wonder why not?