[Vwdiesel] Re: [Audi-VW-Diesels] Couple of questions

[Shawn Wright]

> At 03:13 AM 12/19/2004 +0000, you wrote:
> 
> > #2 With it getting cold out again I was wondering about if I can
> >use synthetic lube in my tranny[5spd] to ease starting. Engine
> >always starts but the tranny when very cold out will stop the Engine.
> 
> 
> ...................Very controversial issue. Lots of people have had tranny 
> failure after messing about with anything other than factory recommended 
> tranny lubricants. But maybe their trannies were going to fail anyjow. I 
> decided to leave mine stock and live with a longer warm-up period and a 
> little stiffness.

I've been very happy with Redline MTL in my previous '85 Jetta. It had 480k kms on 
original trans (never taken apart) when I finally parted it out due to rust. I have the 
trans in the basement as a spare for my current '85, which actually shifts worse, even 
with only 280k kms. I am running Amsoil GL-4 in my Jetta (just to try it out), and must 
say it is better than dino oil, but no comparision with Redline. I wouldn't hesitate to 
use Redline in any VW fwd tranny. I'm still undecided about Redline in Vanagon 
trans, since I had a R&P failure in mine using Redline MTL. But the Vanagon trans is 
an entirely different animal.

> 
> > #3 There was some talk about oil filters, and it was posted to
> >just use OEM filters. Why? Not trying to be a smart A*s, just
> >wondering? I
> >know Fram was mentioned in particular, Just wondering why.
> 
> 
> ................the OEM filters are said to have the correct anti 
> drain-back valves in them, which keeps some oil in the system and resists 
> collapse of the hydraulic lifters for one thing. There are TONS of studies 
> on this question, and when it is all said and done, Mann and Bosch stock 
> diesel filters designed for our cars are pretty good choices. Doyt 
> Echelberger

Filters I've used with good success: VW OEM (made in USA, appear nearly identical 
to US made Bosch filters, probably are), Mann, Baldwin. I've used Baldwin for a few 
years as I can get them delivered to me at a good price, and they are very well built.

--
Shawn Wright
I.T. Manager
Shawnigan Lake School