What weight oil in transmission?

AstroZombie

AstroZombie

Member
At the risk of sounding like a complete idiot, I need some help. My coupe needs fluids, but I don't know what weight of oil I need for the transmission, or rear end for that matter. I was searching for kind of a "Model A tech for dummies" thread, but haven't found much using the search function, so what do you run...

Engine oil:

Transmission:

Rear end:

Anything else that needs lubed:

Thanks everyone, hopefully I don't get flamed TOO bad!! :rolleyes::)
 
AstroZombie said:
At the risk of sounding like a complete idiot, I need some help. My coupe needs fluids, but I don't know what weight of oil I need for the transmission, or rear end for that matter. I was searching for kind of a "Model A tech for dummies" thread, but haven't found much using the search function, so what do you run...

Engine oil: .... no 2 people have ever agreed.:D

Transmission: 600wt

Rear end: 600wt

Anything else that needs lubed: steering gear 600wt

Thanks everyone, hopefully I don't get flamed TOO bad!! :rolleyes::)
Click to expand...

...
 
Craig has it.

Use slipppery oil for the engine at least 30 weight. You can use multi weight, single weight, detergent, non detergent, synthetic.

It is just a personal preference.

NOTE: 600w is not an oil weight but a oil trade name (Mobil). Buy the 600W from a Model A vendor as the other stuff in usally sold in 5 gal buckets.
 
Henry used what was known as 600W oil in the transmission, differential, and the steering gear box, which was very thick. Today nobody can seem to agree on just exactly what that was. All the suppliers carry it, but each seem to offer something different.

My preference is the 600W Bratton's carry. It is a very heavy gear oil with a small percentage of STP added. It is very thick, it tends not to foam, and it clings well to the main shaft and slider gears in the transmission. I have been using it for years and recommend it to people that I have rebuilt a rear end or transmission for. For the steering box I prefer Penrite steering box lube, that was discussed on this forum a while back.

Tom Endy
 
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Ditto on the Penrite steering box lube in the steering box.

The oil/grease combo of Penrite stopped a significant leak at the sector housing. Thumbs up so far.
 
Penrite in the steering box (wont leak out).

600W in the transmission (shifts better then thinner gear lube).

This is what seems to work well for me.

Set the steering box lube in the sun for a while before using it. It will be a little easier to "Pour" then when it is cold.

I get these lubes from Restoration Supply in Escondido, Ca.

My experience,

Chris
 
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Where can the Penrite be normally purchased?
Right now I have 600W and moly in my steering gear, but you guys sound pretty convincing about Penrite...
 
I use Penrite 140 in the rear end and the steering box . Is roughly equivalent to the old 600W according to Penrite . I did use 250W but gear changiing slightly easier in winter with the 140. People use all sorts of stuff and the cars seem to mind much less than we do !

Never worry about being flammed. In my experience people who flame you have advice you don't want or need to listen to. Enjoy the hobby

Karl
 
There is nothing magic about Penrite Steering box lube except it is THICK (1200W) and it will stay in the box and not leak out. It is made specifically for the old steering boxes with poor or no seals.

I like this much better then putting grease in a leaking box as the Penrite will "Flow" and keep everything lubricated.

For the transmission, 600W is thick and it seems to help slow down the gears a little better making shifting as little easier, however you are not going to hurt a thing by using 75W-90 or 140 as long as you have the double clutching down.

The rear end can use any good gear lube. This is NOT a Hypoid rear end and does not have real high tooth loads. If you do not have good rear axle seals, you may want to run thick gear lube, 600W, to help keep it in the differential and not leaking into the rear wheel bearings and on into the brakes.

Again, This is JUST MY OPINION,

Chris
 
Thanks for the info Chris!

I really appreciate everyones kindness, I am new to (stock) A's and I absolutely love this car and want to do things right.
 
CWPASADENA said:
Penrite in the steering box (wont leak out).

600W in the transmission (shifts better then thinner gear lube).

This is what seems to work well for me.

Set the steering box lube in the sun for a while before using it. It will be a little easier to "Pour" then when it is cold.

I get these lubes from Restoration Supply in Escondido, Ca.

My experience,

Chris
Click to expand...

Chris never tried penrite i use stp still leaks, but slowly, buying time until i install a modern seal. think i might give penrite a shot thanks AL
 
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