Need advice on Tremec Transmission

rwall49 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 07:42 AM

Guys,
Transmission experts. When should I change the transmission oil in my Tremec. Its new and I wondered how many miles can be put on it before my first oil change. I dont drive it hard, well maybe I punch it once in a while just for a thrill, but seriously I have driven it with caution cause you never know what little problems you might come up with. I have over 300 miles on the car right now.

Regards,
Ron

patrickt · #2 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 08:11 AM

If you are driving it gently, with only an occasional punch, the transmission oil will still be fine after you're dead and gone and your kids are then speed shifting your baby at 6000RPM. Make them change it then.

jwd · #3 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 09:23 AM

The Tremec dealer I got mine from recommended the first 500 miles using ATF then change to GM synchromesh.

Jim

patrickt · #4 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 09:38 AM

From the Tremec TKO Installation Tips. http://www.ttcautomotive.com/English...ps_117_117.pdf

Quote:

We recommend GM synchromesh part # 12345349, or Dexron III / Mercon Spec ATF fluid for all TKO transmissions.

Quote:

Maintenance

Recommended oil change intervals should be based on specific usage. In most cases a “fill for life” is adequate, while in severe applications such as drag racing, or road racing a more frequent fluid change should be prescribed. Excessive heat will cause most fluids to breakdown and ultimately cause damage to the transmission.

jwd · #5 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 09:57 AM

I tend to lean on the side of over maintenance. When I did the initial change, there were definately tiny metal particles from the break in.

http://www.5speedtransmissions.com

Q: What is the proper break-in procedure for a TREMEC TR-3550/TKO 5sp?
A:

Put 3qt of good quality ATF (Auto Transmission Fluid) (Dexron) into the transmission. Pour in through shifter mount, or through one of the top plates. You can use the fill plug on the side of the transmission also (afterall, that's what it's for!). It's just easier to pour it in from the top if you can.
Put car on jacks, run the transmission up and down through all gears repeatedly for 15 minutes. This will allow the gears to break in properly (yes, with the engine running)
After 500-700 miles, drain the ATF, and put in 3qt of the GM Synchromesh fluid, the part number is 12345349. If it's a race car only, then switch to the GM Synchromesh after the initial break-in.
Don't use synthetic lube for 6000-8000 miles. In fact, we don't recommend synthetic, just stick with the GM Synchromesh.

patrickt · #6 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 10:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jwd

When I did the initial change, there were definately tiny metal particles from the break in.

Those are special oblong ball bearings for increased gear lubrication. Hopefully you saved them so you can put them back in.

Got the Bug · #7 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by patrickt

From the Tremec TKO Installation Tips. http://www.ttcautomotive.com/English...ps_117_117.pdf

Maintenance

Recommended oil change intervals should be based on specific usage. In most cases a “fill for life” is adequate, while in severe applications such as drag racing, or road racing a more frequent fluid change should be prescribed. Excessive heat will cause most fluids to breakdown and ultimately cause damage to the transmission.

Great info! I like that kind of maintenance schedule.

RodKnock · #8 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 11:16 AM

If you have the time, then I would definitely change it every 2 years +/-

rwall49 · #9 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 12:22 PM

Thanks guys for the info

Regards,
Ron

rattlesnakepete · #10 (**permalink**) 10-07-2008, 01:35 PM

I had the very same question with my 3550 which was ten years old with 8000 miles on it. I drained and replaced the GM synchromesh oil and sent the old stuff in for analysis. They reported high wear metals but said that was normal for a new transmission. They also reported 1.4% insoluables ( sludge) which they said was high. The attributed this to aging of the oil.

Physically the old oil was much darker and thicker then the new stuff.

I have been taking samples on all my cars when I change oil. It has proved useful. For example I had some head work done which require me to remove and reinstall the heads. The oil analysis picked up small quanties of stuff they said likely came from antifreeze. I started looking and sure enough I was getting a little leakage out of the head gasket. I retorqued the heads, ran it for a while and sent in another sample. No indications of leaking so far.

Another good example is my dodge truck. The oil analysis found very high bearing material counts. I have owned this truck since new. Time to consider getting another.

Rule of thumb: Never buy a used car from a guy that has his oil analyzed. He may know something you do not!

For Sale: 1994 dodge truck.......

mikeforte · #11 (**permalink**) 01-04-2009, 06:17 PM

Hi rattlesnake,
The TKO shift lugs have dark gray grease on them from the factory. Just a few warm up cycles (less than 100 miles) and the grease all melts away and discolors the oil so it looks dirty.
This is the way the new oil looks so dirty on a new gearbox.
Mike Forte