Manual transmission oil, or MTFs, is extensively used in manual automotive transmissions and their transaxles. Manual transmission oils account for 75% of the automotive gear oil market in Europe. However, the remaining 25% account for the automatic transmission fluids.
Before gear oil or transmission fluids can be used in gears, they must undergo a series of tests to ensure they meet certain performance standards. These tests, like the SAE J 2360, evaluate the oils’ ability to withstand high rotational speed, shock loading, and high working temperatures.
The Four Different Test Levels For Manual Transmission Fluids
Transmission oils have been evaluated according to a set of criteria defined by the American Petroleum Institute. These criteria are based on the performance of the transmission oils as well as the applications that they are designed to be used for. For the goal of ensuring that the oils are efficient and capable of preserving gears from wear and tear, as well as that they fulfill the specific requirements of a variety of applications, these guidelines offer help to both the manufacturers and the consumers.
Understanding Manual Transmission Fluid Tests and Standards
A series of tests, including the L-42 test, is performed on the fluids that are used in manual transmission vehicles. As a consequence of this test, the condition of the vehicle’s rear axle has been demonstrated. When oil is applied to the entire back axle, it causes the axle to spin at high speeds, subjects the axle to stress loading, and runs at greater temperatures while the test is being conducted. The results of the tests are an important factor to consider when selecting an oil and assessing whether or not the oil can preserve the gears from wear and strain. Other tests are:
- API GL-1: This particular oil performance level test is designed for use in manual gearboxes that do not come equipped with synchronizers.
- AP-GL-4 These tests are designated for manual gearboxes that are equipped with synchronizers.
- API GL-5: This oil performance level test is intended for use with manual gearboxes that are subjected to high-performance gear tests while operating in harsh environments.
- MT-1: this is for the engines that are designed to be used off-road to be evaluated.
On the other hand, it is essential to keep in mind that API GL performance levels are not meant to serve as a substitute for reading the recommendations provided by the car manufacturer.
The API performance levels for manual transmission fluids (MTFs) and their key properties.
In addition, in addition to the API GL-1, GL-2, GL-3, GL-4, and GL-5 that have been stated above, there is an additional level that is referred to as API GL-5(LS) or GL-5+.
This degree of condition is met by these gear lubricants, which have unique additives that prevent “stick-slip” from occurring.
Atlantic’s gear oils are the API GL-4/GL-5 oils, which are also known as GL-4+. These gear oils are used extensively in the manufacturing of MTFs. Due to the fact that these oils are meant to be utilized in a wide variety of applications, they are an excellent option for a large number of people who use automobiles and drivers.
The FZG A/8.3/90 gear scuffing test is yet another critical test that must be performed. This test is carried out to determine whether or not the oil is capable of preventing gear scuffing, which is a form of wear that can result in gear failure. During the FZG A/8.3/90 test, special test spur gears are utilized, and the circumstances are carefully monitored and controlled. The outcomes of this test contribute to the determination of how well the oil can prevent gears from becoming scratched.
Gear Oil Testing is a Critical Part of manufacturers
These tests allow producers to verify that their gear oils are of the highest quality and performance requirements by ensuring that they meet the criteria and standards. By doing so, cars are protected from the effects of wear and tear, and their operation is made more streamlined and energy-efficient.
When it comes to things like automobile engines, testing fancy new lubricants may be quite costly. That is why scientists are constantly looking for ways to do it that are both cheaper and faster. However, the objective is to achieve satisfactory outcomes without incurring the large costs associated with conventional testing procedures.
It is of utmost importance to evaluate gear oil manual transmission fluids. There are a variety of organizations that are continually creating new methods to evaluate the effectiveness of these oils in protecting against things like significant wear and tear. Additionally, to guarantee the accuracy of the outcomes, they make use of specific machines and processes.
The Continued Refinement of Gear Oil Testing
This new test even works on parts with special coatings that are designed to reduce wear. This is a big deal for industries where parts absolutely have to last a long time and stay in tip-top shape. Being able to test how well these coatings work is super helpful.
Scientists are always finding new ways to test lubricants. The goal is to get good information that helps companies make better oils for our cars, machines, and tools and do it all without breaking the bank on expensive testing.
Factors To Look For Other Than API Testing
Other than the testing, there are some other factors to consider when choosing the best manual transmission fluid. These are:
One factor to take into account is the viscosity of the fluid. One approach to explain the resistance to flow that a fluid possesses is by referring to its viscosity. The appropriate viscosity for a particular gearbox is defined by the temperature range in which it will be used. Different manual gearboxes require different viscosities of fluid, and their ideal viscosity is determined by the temperature range.
Consider the additive package that is contained within the fluid as well. The additive package that is contained within transmission fluid serves the purpose of preventing rust, corrosion, and wear and tear. If specific additives are used, it is possible to improve the performance of fluids when they are exposed to cold temperatures.
It is critical that you examine the specifications provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the manual transmission fluid you use is compatible with the transmission. You can find the additive package and viscosity that are suitable for the gearbox in the specifications provided by the manufacturer.
When choosing fluid for your vehicle, it is important to be sure to follow these criteria in order to get the most out of your manual transmission.