Hi, about to purchase transmission fluid for my 96’ GXE 5 speed and was wondering if there is a significant different between the Redline MT-90 and Redline MTL. I’ve had a few people recommend to me MT-90, but I found the MTL fluid for $20 a gallon cheaper. Kinda tight on money right now and the only difference I noted was MT-90 has a viscosity rating of 75w-90 while MTL has a viscosity rating of 75w-80. Didn’t seem like a huge difference to me but wanted to check before I purchased. Both are Rated specificity for GL-4.

 

Go with amsoil 75w-90 youll be happy you did. Talkinghorse here on the fourm is the guy to contact to buy.

 

Is there a big difference between the two fluids? The MTL shouldn’t damage my transmission right?

 

Ive never heard of MTL. Redline or amsoil will work.

 

MTL is redline and according to their website it is the same thing as MT-90 except the viscosity rating is 70w-80 in stead of 70w-90. I got some and will try it out, and report back on how it is.

 

As long as it is GL-4 only, not Gl4/Gl-5 you should be good to go (you said this in your post, just making sure for anyone else who reads this thread). Apparently Gl-5 stuff has chemicals that will break down the synchros in our 5 speeds. I ended up using amsoil from talkinghorse as recommended above, but I think redline products are good as well. I would doubt you would feel any difference in transmission shifting with such a small difference in viscosity rating. That's the only potential problem I can think of.

 

I have mixed MT90 and MTL using more MT90 than MTL. I can't say I'd put straight MTL in without talking with Redline first.

 

I think I’ll just ahead try it. Almost the exact same and I don’t think it’ll do it any harm.

 

Redline has a website.

Look for the application guide.

It lists MT 90 as th!e correct oil for our cars.

I like Red line because the transmission is easy to shift on cold winter mornings.

 

Check out Redline MT-85. The shop I have my 97 serviced at (Corner3 Garage) recommended it over the MT-90 I had brought in.

 

I would trust the information on Redlines own website more than your mechanic. But that's just me.

 

FWIW, the Valvoline purchased from your local parts store or even Walmart will serve you just fine.

 

the valvoline is no good...if its the one with gl5 blend mixed in with the gl4...dont buy that...buddy of mine used that to get by, but after 5k miles we changed the fluid it was straight black. its not suppose to look like that.

 

Theres noting rates for GL-4 at the local parts stores. There was the valvoline stuff rated for GL-5 and GL-4, but that was for non synchronized transmissions.

 

Then identify, and order on-inline, the appropriate fluid, like you appear to be intending to do with the stuff (Redline) that’s 2(+) times the cost.

It doesn’t have to be purchased from a local store. I’m just trying to point out that if cost is an issue there are products that will meet the need/requirement and cost a good bit less at the same time.

Also, for the record, having purchased my ‘99 new in MAR of 1999 and upon the expiration of its original 3/36 warranty, I’ve been doing all of my own repairs, replacements and maintenance and using Valvoline products, as needed, since. Over the 178K miles I’ve put on this vehicle over the past 22 years there’s never been a lubrication or fluid related issue.

But, that’s completely your call.

 

you have only links to the valvoline stuff, or any other appropriate fluid for that matter. Having trouble finding anything other than redline tbh.

 

Here’s what you’re looking for ... Valvoline Synchromesh MTF: https://www.valvoline.com/our-produc...ynchromesh-mtf

Use this tool to find a parts store/retailer near you: ​​​​​​​https://www.valvoline.com/store-locator

Or, order it from amazon. It’s $9/qt.