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What does the api gl 4 5 specification mean? Gear oil: for toothache. Nomination "Wear protection"

API gl 5 gear lubricants with an operating temperature range from -75 to 90 degrees for hypoid gears, meeting the performance characteristics of MIL-¬L-¬2105 C/D, are mainly used in bevel gear gearboxes for the main drive in machines and cardan drives, stepped gearboxes of motorcycles.

What is this liquid?

In many passenger cars, the transmission is connected to the main gear. In order for a front-wheel drive car to function normally, special lubricants must be filled. Transmission mechanisms work with cylindrical gears. The likelihood of scuffing in such units is considered relatively small. Automatic transmission requires the use of special low-viscosity fluids. Some vehicles only require transmission lubricants.

Types of transmission oils

The composition of api gl 5 oils with an operating temperature range from -75 to 90 degrees includes up to 6.5% of high-quality extreme pressure additives, which include elements such as sulfur and phosphorus. Therefore, such lubricants are mostly used in vehicles with heavily loaded gears, for example, on hypoid axles. Moreover, this type of fluid can be poured as a universal lubricant for other types of transmissions. At the same time, impurities, which include phosphorus and sulfur, can cause corrosion of components cast from alloys containing copper, so too much of them is undesirable.

Thus, in most cases, synchronized transmissions use GL-4 fluids, and in the main gear, which bears the maximum load, api gl 5 with an operating temperature range from -75 to 90 degrees in accordance with the SAE classification.

Front wheel drive cars

If we consider vehicles with front-wheel drive, we may find that the synchronizers and final drive combined in a single unit may be subject to corrosion and, accordingly, become scuffed during operation. Therefore, it is recommended to fill such machines with api gl 5 lubricants.

The most correct solution for each car owner would be to fill in a lubricant with performance characteristics that meet the requirements set out in the instructions. At the same time, most drivers choose the option that causes corrosion of the synchronizers. The extreme pressure capabilities of GL-5 lubricants with an operating temperature range from -75 to 90 degrees in accordance with the SAE classification are so high that they are almost always preferred if vehicle must be used in difficult conditions. It should be noted that some synthetic-based fluids, the viscosity of which corresponds to the SAE classification 75w90, have a specification corresponding to the characteristics of API GL-4/GL-5, and therefore can be used in a wide variety of situations. For such liquids, the optimal operating temperature is ninety degrees.

Is it possible to compare with GL-4?

If you follow the instructions of manufacturers and other qualified professionals, these two types of lubricants cannot be compared at all. Each type of these oils has its own purpose. For example, if you pour GL-5 fluid into a VAZ 2109 transmission, the synchronizers will not last long. Manufacturers recommend using GL-4 in the transmission. If you do not follow these tips, over time you will have to deal with the problem of replacing transmission components. It should be understood that both varieties are considered oils. highest quality, but they should only be used for their intended purpose. Otherwise, the car will have to be sent for major repairs. If a vehicle owner is unsure about choosing a transmission lubricant, he should consult a qualified technician.

And a little about the author’s secrets

My life is not only connected with cars, but with repairs and maintenance. But I also have hobbies like all men. My hobby is fishing.

I started a personal blog in which I share my experience. I try a lot of things, different methods and methods to increase my catch. If interested, you can read it. Nothing extra, just my personal experience.

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Transfer cases and drive axles are called transmissions. Transmission and motor oils have similar classifications. For TM, the main properties are: viscosity characteristics, operational and anti-corrosion properties, as well as lubricity and thermal-oxidative ability.

75W-90 Transmission Oil Review

Transmission oil, just like motor oil, has its own, which you also need to be able to correctly decipher. On the oil label SAE classification available And API, some have ZF classifier or MIL specification, and may also be approvals of individual car manufacturers.

All modern gear oils must comply with the classification according to international standard SAE J306. 75w90 is the most commonly used viscosity grade among transmission fluids.

Viscosity characteristics 75w and 90

According to SAE, TMs are divided into types and, accordingly, their purpose depending on viscosity. Since we will be talking about 75W-90 gear oil, we will first of all look at its characteristics.

75W– this indicator is known as “winter”, it shows the degree of fluidity at negative temperatures. The lower the value in front of the letter “w”, the more fluid the transmission is in the cold. For this type of oil, the threshold should be at -40 °C.

The second indicator of the viscosity range is 90 , also called “summer”, indicates the maximum tolerated positive temperature of the outside air at a temperature of 100 degrees Celsius. The parameter itself also does not reflect the true value, you just need to know that according to reference data, this threshold will be up to +35 °C.

It would seem why exactly 75W90 oil is the most suitable for our latitudes, why not create a universal one with an even wider temperature spectrum? But it's not that simple. Protection against friction between gear surfaces directly depends on the lubricity of the gear oil. Although this indicator significantly improves with increasing viscosity, the law of resistance comes into force, and transmission power losses increase due to the waste of energy squeezing it out from under the gear teeth. Also, viscous oil thickens very much in the cold. Less viscous, it feels good at sub-zero temperatures, but has a less durable protective film and worse lubricating properties. To balance these two indicators, special additive packages are also used.

In the zone of moderate temperatures, it is better to focus on the viscosity class “90”, but “140”, that is, TM, the viscosity of which at 100°C is not lower than 24 mm2/s, may be preferable for a hot southern climate or heavy loads with high speeds.

Transmission fluid must perform the following functions:

exclude friction, jamming, scuffing, pitting (deep metal corrosion) and other damage;
reduce energy loss and increase efficiency;
remove heat from friction surfaces;
reduce noise and vibration during gear operation.

Therefore, TM 75W90 from different manufacturers, of course, is somewhat different in its properties and, naturally, in its price tag. In addition, 75W90 gear oil is often synthetic, although in some cases, a number of manufacturers may indicate it on the label as semi-synthetic. But in fact, it differs from synthetics only in the content of synthetic substances of 20% - 40% and the amount of additive from 2 to 15%.

In addition to the fact that these fluids are classified according to the SAE system, there is a division of transmission oils according to the API system with the index “GL” (in the Russian version - the index “TM”).

Performance properties of TM

API classification shows comprehensive assessment transmissions depending on their performance properties and is divided into six categories. Categories are marked with an index, which makes it possible to understand the scope and level of quality of the product. In transmission passenger cars, today, only two groups of liquids are used - GL-4 and GL-5 (TM-4, TM-5 according to the domestic classification).

GL-4(or TM-4) - designed for medium-loaded gears. Used in manual transmissions and mechanisms with spiral bevel gears. The operation of such oils can be carried out in hypoid-type transmissions at significant speeds, but small or moderate torques.

GL-5(or TM-5) – used for heavily loaded gears. Operation of oil with this standard is carried out in hypoid gears at low torques in combination with high speeds, subject to short-term shock loads. This oil contains large number sulfur-phosphorus containing extreme pressure additive.

Also a very common oil is 75W90 marked - GL-4/5, the presence of two indices indicates application in different conditions loads and different types of mechanisms.

MIL specification

In addition to API classification, it is often used American MIL specification. For 75W90 it is MIL-L 2105 A, B or C. Confirms compliance with technical specifications all-season gear oils, analogue of API GL-4 or GL-5.

ZF transmission oil quality classifier

Also on the canister of 75W-90 oil you can see Z classifier, - This classification system for all types of vehicle transmissions. The designation is made by letters and numbers from ZF TE-ML 01 to ZF TE-ML 14.

What is the difference between GL-4 and GL-5 75W-90 oils?

As already mentioned just above, the purpose of TM oils GL-4(according to GOST 17479.2–85) - for operation in transmissions with bevel and hypoid gears, operating at contact stresses up to 3000 MPa and oil temperatures up to 150 °C. By and large, these are gearboxes of front-wheel drive cars. API GL-5 - ensures reliable operation of hypoid transmissions operating under shock loads at stresses above 3000 MPa. It is used in gearboxes with hypoid bevel gears and for final drives with cardan drives in drive axles (with limited slip differential LSD). This transmission fluid provides better protection under high load and pressure conditions.

Mistakes when choosing TM 75W90 and the difference between GL 4 and GL 5.

Key Feature is that 75W90 API GL-4 oils contain half the amount of sulfur-phosphorus additives than in similar ones, only a higher class. Such additives create special protective coating on parts, preventing wear, but this substance is even stronger than the surface of parts made of copper or other soft alloys. Therefore, using TMs for purposes other than their intended purpose threatens to wear out the surface of an element made of soft metal. So, in those gearboxes where you need to use 75W90 GL-4, but GL-5 is poured, there is a rapid appearance of copper shavings, since the synchronizers are made of copper, and the sulfur-phosphorus additive kills them.

Switching from GL-4 to GL-5 and back is unacceptable: these are different oils with different properties and purposes.

Rating of the best gear oils with viscosity 75W90

Viscosity. The oil must maintain optimal viscosity both at low temperatures and maintain its astringent properties at high temperatures;
Temperature characteristics. Each liquid has its own pour point and ignition temperature, TM should have the largest gap between these indicators;
Bully index. Unfortunately, there are no standards for this index, but the higher this value, the better the TM;
Wear rate. This criterion is determined only for GL-5 class oil; it should be less than 0.4 mm.

The TOP of the best transmission oils does not take into account their cost, but is given based on reviews and comparative tests.

In many respects, gear oil Motul Gear 300 75W90 takes first place among all tested. This transmission has the highest protection against scuffing (the index is 60.1), welding, oil film stability without loss of engine power, and an average wear rate (0.75 mm). Although it cannot boast of viscosity characteristics (especially at sub-zero temperatures).

Temperature test of transmission oils 75W90

Second and third places are occupied by transmission fluids from Castrol (Syntrans) and Mobil (Mobilube). Oil Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75W-90 GL-4 is used in transmissions, transfer cases and drive axles. It has good low-temperature fluidity, but compared to Mobile, the scuff index is quite high for a liquid of this class, but the wear level is even better than Motul (59.4).

TM Mobil Mobilube can be placed in third place, since it has good test results for the level of protection and wear at high loads, and therefore provides low friction losses at operating temperatures. But, unfortunately, it has an insufficient viscosity index at sub-zero temperatures.

The fourth result when testing transmission oil showed oil Total Transmission SYN FE 75W-90. Reviews about this fluid are also good, although since it is universal - it has API GL-4/GL-5, it will not be suitable for all gearboxes. This TM has a scuff level of 58.8, which is even better than the leader in the rating of gear oils 75W90. But it cannot boast of wear levels and good viscosity in low-temperature tests.

Semi-synthetic gear oil LIQUI MOLY Hypoid-Getriebeoil TDL 75W-90 GL-4/5 also performs well in tests; it especially stood out when tested at minus 40; its fluidity at such a low temperature will allow the gearbox and gearboxes to operate without problems. However, other important indicators are at an average level.

Synthetic oil ZIC G-F TOP 75W-90V this rating We do not include it because there is very little data on its wear and tear indicators, although the temperature test passes excellently. This gear oil can be used in manual transmissions (including synchronized transmissions) and drive axles. According to reviews from car owners, it significantly reduces transmission noise, withstands extreme loads and has virtually no drawbacks.

It is also impossible not to pay attention to Transyn 75W-90 API GL 3/4/5 oil from the manufacturer Eurol, since, looking at the lack of real temperature tests and a very high level of wear - 0.94, it has a good scuff level - 58.5 and is very popular among car enthusiasts.

As you can see, the range of 75W90 gear oils on the market is quite large and there is always something to choose for your needs and affordable price. But remember that you need to select not because your neighbor advised, but based on the needs of your car’s transmission and the characteristics of the transmission fluid itself.

Few people know what gl 5 oil is. To lubricate any units that require increased wear resistance, there is gear oil, the main tasks of which are excellent protection against wear, damage and corrosion. When lubricating mechanisms containing gears, an important role is played by the ability of the lubricant to resist scuffing of gear teeth and the connection of micro-irregularities due to temperature differences.

Gl 5 automobile oil perfectly protects parts from wear.

What is gear oil

There are many mechanisms and units in which the working tools are gears of different diameters that make up bevel, worm, cylindrical and chain gears. These include steering mechanisms, gearboxes, transfer and differential devices. They are all called transmissions, and their stable operation depends on good lubrication.

Transmission oils have high viscosity.

Since all these units have similar operating conditions (there are practically no strong differences in temperatures and conditions in their operation), gear oils have a high viscosity. The temperature at which it hardens is quite low. Since these mechanisms contain a lot of rubber sealing products, the lubricant must have the ability to reduce gaps during operation of transmissions and prevent deformation of these gaskets. It is important to know that even when this mechanism long time is not used or is not operating at full capacity, the properties of the oil are preserved, the gears remain lubricated and well protected.

Transmission oil prevents water or any other liquid from entering the unit, thereby preventing the formation of harmful impurities and build-up on gears and other parts of transmissions. It creates a protective film not only on the surface of the teeth, but also on all parts, thereby protecting against corrosion and other mechanical and chemical damage. It must be remembered that hypoid gears cannot be lubricated with this oil. For them, there are special hypoid oils containing various chemical components, causing the desired chemical reactions.

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How to choose oil

Transmission oils are not used in all mechanisms that have gears. They can only be used in conventional vehicles with all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive. Under no circumstances should such a lubricant be used in cars with an automatic transmission, as in this case the oil will not work due to its high viscosity.

There is a special lubricant for them, which can be purchased at car dealerships.

The brand of oil depends on your driving habits and style.

Everyone is free to choose which oil is best to use. There is synthetic, semi-synthetic or mineral oil. Since temperature conditions are not important for transmission components, this property does not play a special role when choosing a lubricant. The only criterion by which you need to choose oil in this case is economic benefit. From this point of view, it is beneficial to purchase mineral lubricant; it is approximately 30% cheaper than synthetics. Great value When choosing lubricants they have several criteria.

The strength of the loads that transmission parts experience during operation. In this case, the lubricant must be viscous enough for complete circulation to occur, and the anti-corrosion properties must be at the highest level. Anti-scuffing properties must prevail over any other properties, otherwise scuffing of gears will inevitably lead to their failure. And this will disable the entire unit.
Loads that contain rotational movements that depend on the speed of relative sliding. In this case, the lubricant must have excellent protective functions that allow you to keep all gears and cylindrical transmissions in good condition. In this case, the rubber seals must be lubricated on all sides so that no gaps form during operation.

In order for the above properties of transmission oils to work properly, various additives are added to them, which are carefully developed and selected depending on the mode in which the mechanism is going to operate. Particularly interesting in this regard are extreme pressure additives, which are chemical compounds. These compounds can be both beneficial and harmful. After all chemicals, especially under the influence of various temperature conditions, are capable of corroding metal surfaces. This can cause wear on gears and chains. The protective film created does not prevent corrosion, but can stop this process.

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Oils gl 4 and gl 5

The industry offers transmission oils of two groups. These are gl 4 and gl 5. This is how European and American manufacturers classify their lubricants. According to the American quality system (API), there are groups of lubricants that differ in their properties and characteristics. Both types of oil are used only in cars with manual transmission.

The oil is suitable for passenger cars made in Russia.

API gl 4 gear oil is recommended for use in operational mild conditions and moderate severity. It can be used in all Russian-made passenger cars (except Niva), as well as in various trucks, minivans and buses with front-wheel drive transmissions. They can also be used for drive axle units. And also for those gears where during operation there is a small shift of the axes. Such oils are available in the product lines of all leading automobile oil manufacturers, including Russian ones. This lubricant is synthetic or semi-synthetic, that is, produced in laboratories from purified petroleum products, with the addition of 4% unique additives that make up the whole package. Each additive improves one property of the oil.
API gl 5 gear oil is recommended for use in severe and extreme operating conditions. It is used for all-wheel drive gearboxes (with hypoid gears), since it contains special additives specifically for working with them. Recommended Russian manufacturers for Niva cars, since this car contains mechanisms with a significant and large displacement of the gear axes. Since this oil contains up to 10% additives to improve every lubricant property, it is the best transmission lubricant available today. This type of lubricant contains a unique additive package that was developed in the USA or Europe.

Why replace something that lasts a lifetime? Optimism goes away when you discover in the backyard of a service station a mountain of dead manual and automatic transmissions taken from cars of one very well-known company. Which? Well, it doesn’t matter... The important thing is that boxes have now become almost disposable! They try not to repair them, but to replace them entirely - how much would such a replacement cost without a warranty, can you estimate? Therefore, the box must be cared for and cherished and be sure to be pampered good oil. It is best to use a fully synthetic one, viscosity class 75W-90, quality class API GL-4 - this is perfect for manual transmissions.

It’s a pity that we don’t see domestic transmission synthetics on the shelves. Only imports are mainly European, mainly German. Instead of GL-4, manufacturers prefer to indicate GL-4+, GL-4/5, and GL-3/4/5. So we bought a dozen of them. The price ranges from an affordable 345 rubles for a liter jar of Dutch NGN to 775 rubles for a French Motul Gear 300. Is it worth overpaying? That's why we arranged an examination.

WHAT DO WE CHECK?

In general, the oil in the box is easier to work with than in the engine. But there are a lot of problems: it is necessary to simultaneously form a thin film and ensure lubrication of the gears. There must be serious protection against scuffing and wear. Therefore, viscosity, composition, and a set of additives are important in the characteristics of the transmission.

WHY DID YOU CHECK?

And here is what it all started for. We officially declare: the oils are very different and clearly not from the same barrel. The difference in results for individual parameters is not by percentages, but by several times! And the effect does not always correspond to the price. The leader was immediately revealed - the ester Motul Gear 300 has the best performance in terms of welding load, scuffing index, and critical load. The wear is a little worse, but here it’s generally interesting: none of the tested oils met the GOST requirements for the TM-5 group. Why is this so? Perhaps this is a consequence of a decrease in the content in modern products sulfur and phosphorus, which previously determined high anti-wear properties. But the result obtained cannot be considered negative either: we choose oil for manual transmissions of the GL-4 group, where anti-wear indicators are not standardized at all by GOST.

And here is another nuance that was worth working for. It turned out that anti-wear and extreme pressure properties change in antiphase! At the level of intuition this is understandable. The basic principle of wear protection is to place something soft and sliding between the parts. To increase scuff resistance, the opposite is required. Therefore, an effective additive package must provide some compromise between two mutually exclusive factors.

Well, what's better? Our advice on the topic “What to choose?” - below. We have arranged the files of all participants in alphabetical order. But I have only one wish: do not dismiss “boxed” oils.

Until the box brushes you off.

The results differ from each other not by percentages, but by several times!

WHAT, HOW AND WHY WE MEASURED

Tribological parameters. Characterize the protective properties of oil during contact in gears. Determined in accordance with GOST 9490–75 on a four-ball friction machine: three stationary steel balls at the bottom, one spins at a given speed at the top and a load presses on it. The structure is immersed in an oil bath in which the test oil splashes. And then the behavior of the balls and contact patches tells everything. For different types transmission oils, it is standardized by our GOST 17479.2–85 - there are generally accepted ways of interpreting the results of such tests. Of course, foreign manufacturers are not required to follow GOST, but we live in Russia, and therefore we can use the standards of this document to assess the quality of oil.

This is the threshold for destruction of the oil film. GOST does not standardize its value, so let’s think simply: the higher it is, the better.

Scuffing and wear. The main troubles of gearing. They are characterized by a scuffing index and a wear index. The index is not standardized - in general, the higher the better. The wear rate for GL-4 oils (TM-4 in our GOST) is not standardized, but for TM-5 (or GL-5 in our non-our language) it should be no more than 0.4 mm. In general, less is more.

The main parameter by which extreme pressure properties are standardized. It is defined simply: the balls are loaded and loaded until the friction machine stops. For TM-4 oils, the welding load must be no less than 3000 N, for TM-5 - 3280 N. Let's take these numbers as an evaluation criterion.

Viscosity. At operating temperatures, we evaluate the kinematic viscosity, and at low temperatures, the dynamic viscosity. Using kinematic viscosity at 40 and 100 °C, we calculate the viscosity index, which characterizes the degree of dependence of viscosity on temperature. The range of change in this viscosity at 100 °C for the 75W‑90 class is quite wide - from 13.5 to 24 cSt. The higher the viscosity at operating temperature, the heavier the motor, generally speaking. The lower the dynamic viscosity at negative temperatures, the faster the box will warm up and the better the car will drive.

Pour point. Everything is simple here: the lower, the better.

Flash point. Together with the pour point, it characterizes stability and quality to a certain extent. base oil. The higher it is, the better the base usually is, which means you can expect that the resource of such oil will be longer.

QUESTION AND ANSWER

Are these types of oils suitable for automatic transmissions?

No good. Special fluids with different properties have been created for automatic transmissions. Here it is very important to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer, because ATF fluid ensures the operation of the torque converter, which requires strictly specified viscosity-temperature characteristics. And for manual transmissions these requirements are much more relaxed.

What is the difference between GL-4 and GL-5 oils? Or, in our opinion, TM-4 from TM-5?

According to GOST 17479.2–85, the purpose of TM-4 group oils is cylindrical, spiral-bevel and hypoid gears operating at contact stresses up to 3000 MPa and oil temperature in the volume up to 150 °C. And the recipients of TM-5 oils are hypoid gears operating with shock loads at contact stresses above 3000 MPa and bulk oil temperatures up to 150 °C. Hence the differences in the required protective properties discussed in the article. Therefore, in particular, the transition from GL-4 to GL-5 and back is unacceptable: these are different oils with different properties.

Will using a more viscous oil reduce transmission noise?

Yes, it will reduce it if the noise is caused by increased gaps in the box components. But within reasonable limits, of course. With a high degree of wear, even the most viscous oil will not help.

Should I chase synthetics? Or is the situation the same as with motor oil?

Synthetics are more stable and therefore guarantee a longer service life. In addition, it has a higher viscosity index, so the low-temperature properties of such oils are better. So there is a certain analogy with motor oils There is.

Why are there such large numbers in the SAE designations if the weather outside is the same as for the engine?

The numbers indicate the average viscosity range for the oil grade in Saybolt Second Universal Unit (SSU). For transmissions they are taken directly, for motors they are divided in half.

All tables open in full size at the click of a mouse.

Question about mixing - is it possible or not?

It depends on what you mix. Oils of the same SAE and API groups can theoretically be mixed, but in practice we do not recommend it.

Is flushing necessary when changing the oil?

If good synthetics were initially poured in, then it is not needed.

Is it possible to pour GL-5 into a manual box?

GL-5 oil is intended for heavily loaded high-speed hypoid gears. Its enhanced extreme pressure and anti-wear functions are provided by an increased concentration of additives based on sulfur and phosphorus, which are aggressive towards non-ferrous metals. But in practice, transmission elements are individual, and therefore, in certain cases, the automaker may allow the use of one type of oil in all transmission components.

OIL IN A MANUAL TRANSMISSION: WHICH IS BETTER TO CHOOSE?

Nomination "Extreme"

The winner in this category guarantees protection of the box under maximum loads.

Gold from Motul Gear 300.

Nomination "Wear protection"

Gold from BP Energear And JB .

They took the silver ADDINOL,NGN And SRS .

Nomination "Energy Saving"

Guarantees the best efficiency. For the thrifty, in general.

Winners - Motul Gear 300 And Liqui Moly .

Silver Mobil Mobilube And ADDINOL .

Nomination "Fast warm-up"

These oils are better than others in overcoming the cold numbness after a night of hibernation.

Oil turned out to be the best SRS .

They took the silver BP Energear And Shell Spirax .

Nomination "Price/Quality"

Everything is clear from the name.

The winner is clear: NGN .

Grand Prix

If we talk about maximum protection (even for sports car gearboxes), then it’s difficult to compete with ester oil.

Winner - Motul Gear 300 .

Silver Castrol Syntrax, Mobil Mobilube, Eurol Transyn .

The anti-wear and extreme pressure properties of oils appear in antiphase.

REPRESENTATIVES

ADDINOL Gear Oil GH 75W-90

Germany

Price 1 l - 420 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5

Approvals: MIL-L-2105D, VW 501 50

There is not a word in Russian on the label! One of the serious advantages is one of the highest levels of wear protection. But here there is a fly in the ointment - modest results in terms of the scuffing index and welding load. And low-temperature properties are not the best.

Reasonable price.

Relatively low protective properties against scuffing.

BP Energear SGX 75W-90 Winner in the category "Wear protection"

Belgium

Price 1 l - 470 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4+

Approval: Suitable for VW 501 50

The wear protection is the best, and the scuff protection is worse than most. In terms of wear, it came very close to the very strict GOST requirements for oils more high group- TM-5. Good low temperature properties and highest flash point.

The best wear protection, affordable price.

Low values of the scuffing index.

Castrol Syntrax Universal Plus

Germany

Price 1 l - 550 rub.

Approvals: MAN 3343S, 341E3; Scania STO 1:0; MB-Approval 235.8; ZF TE-ML 02B, 05B, 12B, 16F, 17B, 19C, 21B; SAE J2360

One of the best protection against welding is combined with satisfactory wear protection. Very low temperature hardening - with the lowest viscosity index. At the same time, the highest flash point promises a long service life.

+ High weld load provides long-lasting protection against scuffing; low pour point.

- Low viscosity index.

Eurol Lubricants Transyn Synthetic

Netherlands

Price 1 l - 420 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-3/4/5 & MT-1

Approvals: Meets ZF TE-ML 01, 02, 05, 07, 08, Volvo 97310, Scania STO 1:0 BOX; MAN 341 TL/341 Type Z-3; MAN 342 SL/342 Type S-1; MAN 3343 S/SL; MIL-L-2105 B/C/D; MIL-PRF-2105E; DAF ZF TE-ML 02 BOX.

Again, not a single Russian word on the can! But in the “not our” language, on the one hand, it is written in large letters that it is synthetic, and on the other, in much smaller print, it is semi-synthetic... What to believe? After the tests, we believe the second one more.

High welding load, even according to our strict GOST it passes as TM-5.

Worst wear indicator.

JB GERMAN OIL Hypoid Getriebeoel GL 4 plus Winner in the category “Wear protection”

Germany

Price 1 l - 520 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5 & MT-1

Approvals: MAN 3343 Type S; Scania STO 1:0; ARVIN MERITOR 0-79-N; SAE J2360; MIL-PRF-2105E; ZF TE-ML 02B, 05B, 07A, 12B, 16F, 17B, 19C DAF IVECO

One of the leaders in the number of approvals from automakers, but it’s not clear from the description - “approved” or “complies”? Wear protection is excellent, and the scuff index is weak. Low temperature characteristics are on par. And at the same time the highest viscosity at operating temperatures!

Good wear protection and low temperature properties.

The worst badass index in the review.

Liqui Moly "High Performance Gear Oil" Winner in the category "Energy Saving"

Germany

Price 1 l - 620 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4 + (GL-4/GL-5)

Approvals: Ford ESD M2C 175-A; VW Norm 50150 (G50); ZF TE-ML 08

Very expensive, but overall an outstanding oil. Tribological parameters are average, low-temperature properties are good, but not the best, and the viscosity index is also relatively low. And what is the claimed “high performance”?

Convenient bottle with built-in grease nipple, good low-temperature properties.

Expensive for average parameters.

Mobil Mobilube 1 SHC Fully Synthetic Supreme Performance Gear Oil

Sweden

Price 1 liter - 750 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-5/MT-1

Approvals: Approved MB - Approval 235.8, MAN M 3343 Type S; MAN 341 E3; ZF TE-ML 02B/05B/12B/16F/17B/19C/21B; JSC AVTODISEL YaMZ Gearbox. Meets Scania STO 1:0; ZF TE-ML 07A

Very decent results in terms of transmission protection under high loads. But at the same time, the lowest viscosity index predetermines weak low-temperature properties. At the same time, viscosity at operating temperatures suggests relatively low friction losses in the transmission.

Good protective properties.

Very expensive! And the viscosity index is strangely low for synthetics.

Motul Gear 300 100% synthese Winner in the nomination “Extreme” “Energy Saving” Grand Prix

France

Price 1 l - 775 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5, MIL-L-2105D

Ester-based oil immediately stands out from the rest. It has the highest indicators for protection against scuffing and welding, and for oil film resistance. At the same time, operating viscosities do not steal extra “horses” from under the hood. By all indications - the leader of the test.

Best tribological performance for critical load and scuffing protection.

NGN Synthetic Transmission Oil Winner in the “Price/Quality” category

Netherlands

Price 1 l - 345 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-3/4/5, MT-1

Approvals: meets the requirements of MAN 341/342/3343; Scania STO 1:0 BOX; MIL-L-2105 B/C/D-PRF 2105E; Volvo 97310; DAF ZF TE-ML 02; ZF-TE-ML 01/02B/05B/07A/08A

The oil with a name that is not very well known among us turned out to be the most inexpensive, but quite worthy. In terms of basic parameters, it is in no way inferior to more eminent ones, and in some ways even surpasses them. Therefore, it receives first place in the “Price/Quality” nomination.

Low freezing point and a sufficient level of basic physical and chemical indicators combined with an affordable price.

High viscosity at operating temperatures.

Shell Spirax Axle Oil S5 ATE

Switzerland

Price 1 l - 480 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/5

Approvals: Approved Ferrari, Porsche

Declared for extremely loaded transmissions, however, the tribological performance in all respects is not outstanding. But good low-temperature properties and viscosity at operating temperatures correspond to the stated purpose.

Good protection against scuffing, relatively affordable price.

High viscosity at operating temperatures increases friction losses.

SRS Schmierstoffe Getriebefluid 5 L Winner in the category "Fast warm-up"

Germany

Price 1 l - 490 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4 Plus

An oil unlike any other. It is bright green in color, and its composition is clearly different. The highest viscosity index determines leadership in low-temperature properties. But the viscosity at high temperatures is also high - expect friction losses. Good wear protection.

Low values of dynamic viscosity at low temperatures, good wear indicator.

High viscosity at high temperatures, not the highest extreme pressure properties.

Total Transmission Syn FE

France

Price 1 l - 550 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4, GL-5, MT-1

Approvals: Approved MAN 3343 Type S; Scania STO 1:0; ZF TE-ML 02B, 05B, 07A, 12B, 16F, 17B, 19C; SAE J2360; MB-Approval 235.8; MACK GO-J

High viscosity at low temperatures will lengthen the warm-up of the box in the cold. At the same time, the working viscosity is decent, which will increase friction losses, but will protect the bearings. Significant advantages include low freezing point and high flash point.

Good tribological parameters.

Far from the best viscosity index.

Why replace something that lasts a lifetime? Optimism goes away when you discover in the backyard of a service station a mountain of dead manual and automatic transmissions taken from cars of one very well-known company. Which? Well, it doesn’t matter... The important thing is that boxes have now become almost disposable! They try not to repair them, but to replace them entirely - how much would such a replacement cost without a warranty, can you estimate? Therefore, the box must be cared for and cherished and be sure to be pampered with good oil. It is best to use a fully synthetic one, viscosity class 75W-90, quality class API GL-4 - this is perfect for manual transmissions.

WHAT DO WE CHECK?

WHY DID YOU CHECK?

And here is what it all started for. We officially declare: the oils are very different and clearly not from the same barrel. The difference in results for individual parameters is not by percentages, but by several times! And the effect does not always correspond to the price. The leader was immediately revealed - the ester Motul Gear 300 has the best performance in terms of welding load, scuffing index, and critical load. The wear is a little worse, but here it’s generally interesting: none of the tested oils met the GOST requirements for the TM-5 group. Why is this so? Perhaps this is a consequence of a decrease in the content of sulfur and phosphorus in modern products, which previously determined high anti-wear properties. But the result obtained cannot be considered negative either: we choose oil for manual transmissions of the GL-4 group, where anti-wear indicators are not standardized at all by GOST.

Until the box brushes you off.

The results differ from each other not by percentages, but by several times!

WHAT, HOW AND WHY WE MEASURED

Tribological parameters. Characterize the protective properties of oil during contact in gears. Determined in accordance with GOST 9490–75 on a four-ball friction machine: three stationary steel balls at the bottom, one spins at a given speed at the top and a load presses on it. The structure is immersed in an oil bath in which the test oil splashes. And then the behavior of the balls and contact patches tells everything. For different types of transmission oils it is standardized by our GOST 17479.2–85 - there are generally accepted ways of interpreting the results of such tests. Of course, foreign manufacturers are not required to follow GOST, but we live in Russia, and therefore we can use the standards of this document to assess the quality of oil.

This is the threshold for destruction of the oil film. GOST does not standardize its value, so let’s think simply: the higher it is, the better.

Pour point. Everything is simple here: the lower, the better.

Flash point. Together with the pour point, it characterizes to a certain extent the stability and quality of the base oil. The higher it is, the better the base usually is, which means you can expect that the resource of such oil will be longer.

QUESTION AND ANSWER

Are these types of oils suitable for automatic transmissions?

What is the difference between GL-4 and GL-5 oils? Or, in our opinion, TM-4 from TM-5?

Will using a more viscous oil reduce transmission noise?

Yes, it will reduce it if the noise is caused by increased gaps in the box components. But within reasonable limits, of course. With a high degree of wear, even the most viscous oil will not help.

Should I chase synthetics? Or is the situation the same as with motor oil?

Why are there such large numbers in the SAE designations if the weather outside is the same as for the engine?

The numbers indicate the average viscosity range for the oil grade in Saybolt Second Universal Unit (SSU). For transmissions they are taken directly, for motors they are divided in half.

All tables open in full size with a mouse click.

Question about mixing - is it possible or not?

It depends on what you mix. Oils of the same SAE and API groups can theoretically be mixed, but in practice we do not recommend it.

Is flushing necessary when changing the oil?

If good synthetics were initially poured in, then it is not needed.

Is it possible to pour GL-5 into a manual box?

OIL IN A MANUAL TRANSMISSION: WHICH IS BETTER TO CHOOSE?

Nomination "Extreme"

The winner in this category guarantees protection of the box under maximum loads.

Gold from Motul Gear 300.

Nomination "Wear protection"

Gold from BP Energear And JB .

They took the silver ADDINOL,NGN And SRS .

Nomination "Energy Saving"

Guarantees the best efficiency. For the thrifty, in general.

Winners - Motul Gear 300 And Liqui Moly .

Silver Mobil Mobilube And ADDINOL .

Nomination "Fast warm-up"

These oils are better than others in overcoming the cold numbness after a night of hibernation.

Oil turned out to be the best SRS .

They took the silver BP Energear And Shell Spirax .

Nomination "Price/Quality"

Everything is clear from the name.

The winner is clear: NGN .

Grand Prix

If we talk about maximum protection (even for sports car gearboxes), then it’s difficult to compete with ester oil.

Winner - Motul Gear 300 .

Silver Castrol Syntrax, Mobil Mobilube, Eurol Transyn .

The anti-wear and extreme pressure properties of oils appear in antiphase.

REPRESENTATIVES

ADDINOL Gear Oil GH 75W-90

Germany

Price 1 l - 420 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5

Approvals: MIL-L-2105D, VW 501 50

Reasonable price.

Relatively low protective properties against scuffing.

BP Energear SGX 75W-90 Winner in the category "Wear protection"

Belgium

Price 1 l - 470 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4+

Approval: Suitable for VW 501 50

The wear protection is the best, and the scuff protection is worse than most. In terms of wear, it comes very close to the very strict GOST requirements for oils of a higher group - TM-5. Good low temperature properties and highest flash point.

The best wear protection, affordable price.

Low values of the scuffing index.

Castrol Syntrax Universal Plus

Germany

Price 1 l - 550 rub.

Approvals: MAN 3343S, 341E3; Scania STO 1:0; MB-Approval 235.8; ZF TE-ML 02B, 05B, 12B, 16F, 17B, 19C, 21B; SAE J2360

One of the best protection against welding is combined with satisfactory wear protection. Very low pour point - with the lowest viscosity index. At the same time, the highest flash point promises a long service life.

+ High weld load provides long-lasting protection against scuffing; low pour point.

- Low viscosity index.

Eurol Lubricants Transyn Synthetic

Netherlands

Price 1 l - 420 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-3/4/5 & MT-1

Approvals: Meets ZF TE-ML 01, 02, 05, 07, 08, Volvo 97310, Scania STO 1:0 BOX; MAN 341 TL/341 Type Z-3; MAN 342 SL/342 Type S-1; MAN 3343 S/SL; MIL-L-2105 B/C/D; MIL-PRF-2105E; DAF ZF TE-ML 02 BOX.

High welding load, even according to our strict GOST it passes as TM-5.

Worst wear indicator.

JB GERMAN OIL Hypoid Getriebeoel GL 4 plus Winner in the category “Wear protection”

Germany

Price 1 l - 520 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5 & MT-1

Approvals: MAN 3343 Type S; Scania STO 1:0; ARVIN MERITOR 0-79-N; SAE J2360; MIL-PRF-2105E; ZF TE-ML 02B, 05B, 07A, 12B, 16F, 17B, 19C DAF IVECO

Good wear protection and low temperature properties.

The worst badass index in the review.

Liqui Moly "High Performance Gear Oil" Winner in the category "Energy Saving"

Germany

Price 1 l - 620 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4 + (GL-4/GL-5)

Approvals: Ford ESD M2C 175-A; VW Norm 50150 (G50); ZF TE-ML 08

Convenient bottle with built-in grease nipple, good low-temperature properties.

Expensive for average parameters.

Mobil Mobilube 1 SHC Fully Synthetic Supreme Performance Gear Oil

Sweden

Price 1 liter - 750 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-5/MT-1

Approvals: Approved MB - Approval 235.8, MAN M 3343 Type S; MAN 341 E3; ZF TE-ML 02B/05B/12B/16F/17B/19C/21B; JSC AVTODISEL YaMZ Gearbox. Meets Scania STO 1:0; ZF TE-ML 07A

Good protective properties.

Very expensive! And the viscosity index is strangely low for synthetics.

Motul Gear 300 100% synthese Winner in the nomination “Extreme” “Energy Saving” Grand Prix

France

Price 1 l - 775 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-4/GL-5, MIL-L-2105D

Best tribological performance for critical load and scuffing protection.

NGN Synthetic Transmission Oil Winner in the “Price/Quality” category

Netherlands

Price 1 l - 345 rub.

SAE 75W-90, API GL-3/4/5, MT-1

Approvals: meets the requirements of MAN 341/342/3343; Scania STO 1:0 BOX; MIL-L-2105 B/C/D-PRF 2105E; Volvo 97310; DAF ZF TE-ML 02; ZF-TE-ML 01/02B/05B/07A/08A

Low freezing point and a sufficient level of basic physical and chemical indicators combined with an affordable price.

High viscosity at operating temperatures.