amsoil tranny fluid

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Old 07-20-2005, 11:20 AM
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amsoil tranny fluid

would it be better if i switch to amsoil for the tranny oil?
Old 07-20-2005, 11:21 AM
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what grade is the tranny oil?GL3,GL4?
Old 07-20-2005, 03:45 PM
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I would recommend Honda Z-1 ATF. Amsoil is rated for it but whats the point...the tranny is defective...and changint the type transmission fluid will fix it/nor prolong it.

Amsoil is more expensive as well....if you have the 2004 TL...i have read that RoadRage uses it and recommends it.
Old 07-20-2005, 05:24 PM
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^ agreed
Old 07-20-2005, 05:50 PM
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i could get amsoil straight from the distributer very cheap.so what is the oil recomended for our cars?GL3 orGL4
Old 07-20-2005, 08:02 PM
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ATF-Z1 is the only tranny fluid I would ever put in the TL, it has a *huge* following here on AZ and dealers and dealer mechanics agree ATF-Z1 is all you should ever use... dealers will usually swap in cheap oil and cheap coolant, but not one dealer mechanic I know would use anything but ATF-Z1 in a honda auto...
Old 07-21-2005, 01:51 AM
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Old 07-21-2005, 08:08 AM
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well what is it ?GL3 or GL4? I also asked the dealer if could put amsoil instead of the honda atf and they told me there is no problem all i have to do is keep the receipt.
Old 07-21-2005, 10:34 AM
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ATF-Z1 is the specification you should be looking for when it comes to tranny fluid (you already know this). GL-4 and GL-5 are API designations for gear lubrication service specifically. If a fluid, whether it's motor oil, gear lube, ATF, etc., meets a particular API service designation, the manufacturer may label it as such but the important thing you should be looking for in an ATF for your Acura is ATF-Z1. But to answer your question, I could not find what gear lube service designation Amsoil ATF meets, if it meets any at all.
Old 07-21-2005, 11:52 AM
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Originally Posted by TLMugen
ATF-Z1 is the specification you should be looking for when it comes to tranny fluid (you already know this). GL-4 and GL-5 are API designations for gear lubrication service specifically. If a fluid, whether it's motor oil, gear lube, ATF, etc., meets a particular API service designation, the manufacturer may label it as such but the important thing you should be looking for in an ATF for your Acura is ATF-Z1. But to answer your question, I could not find what gear lube service designation Amsoil ATF meets, if it meets any at all.
Ok man thanks.
Old 07-22-2005, 02:46 PM
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Amsoil ATF=Peanut buttered across the spectrum. Not sure if it contains any GrpIII in it either, though I wouldn't be surprised as Amsoil considers GrpIII as synthetic.

Specialty Formulations Autoglide Honda Z-1 specific: Same price as Amsoil, but is designed specifically for Honda Z-1. It is a GrpIII/IV/V fluid, thus because it contains some GrpIII, they won't market it as a full syn, but as a syn blend.

However, both are excellent products but my nod goes to the Specialty Formulations fluid as its designed specifically for the Honda Z-1. I know the chemist who blends the fluids, and they do not cut corners.

As a less expensive alternative, Pennzoil Multi-Vehicle works quite well but it is again, peanut buttered across the spectrum for many apps.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 02:50 PM
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BTW, Gear lube specs are only for Manual Transmission Lubes.

GL-4, GL-5 are all specs for Manual Transmission and Gear Lubes.

For example, Amsoil's MTF meets the Honda MTF requirement and Synchromesh requirement.

But only their Severe Gear products meet the GL4 and GL5 requirements.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 02:50 PM
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Originally Posted by Michael Wan
Amsoil ATF=Peanut buttered across the spectrum. Not sure if it contains any GrpIII in it either, though I wouldn't be surprised as Amsoil considers GrpIII as synthetic.

Specialty Formulations Autoglide Honda Z-1 specific: Same price as Amsoil, but is designed specifically for Honda Z-1. It is a GrpIII/IV/V fluid, thus because it contains some GrpIII, they won't market it as a full syn, but as a syn blend.

However, both are excellent products but my nod goes to the Specialty Formulations fluid as its designed specifically for the Honda Z-1. I know the chemist who blends the fluids, and they do not cut corners.

As a less expensive alternative, Pennzoil Multi-Vehicle works quite well but it is again, peanut buttered across the spectrum for many apps.

Michael
My head is about to explode. Put that in English for us laymen.

What does GRP stand for? And what are the differences among III, IV, and V classifications?
Old 07-22-2005, 03:10 PM
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Group I - Solvent Freezing: Group 1 base oils are the least refined of all the groups. They are usually a mix of different hydrocarbon chains with little or no uniformity. While some automotive oils on the market use Group I stocks, they are generally used in less demanding applications.

Group II - Hydro processing and Refining: Group II base oils are common in mineral based motor oils currently available on the market. They have fair to good performance in lubricating properties such as volatility, oxidative stability and flash/fire points. They have only fair performance in areas such as pour point, cold crank viscosity and extreme pressure wear.

Group – III Hydro processing and Refining: Group III base oils are subjected to the highest level of mineral oil refining of the base oil groups. Although they are not chemically engineered, they offer good performance in a wide range of attributes as well as good molecular uniformity and stability. They are commonly mixed with additives and marketed as synthetic or semi-synthetic products. Group III base oils have become more common in America in the last decade.

Group IV -Chemical Reactions: Group IV base oils are chemically engineered synthetic base stocks. Polyalphaolefins (PAO's) synthetics, when combined with additives, offer excellent performance over a wide range of lubricating properties. They have very stable chemical compositions and highly uniform molecular chains. Group IV base oils are becoming more common in synthetic and synthetic-blend products for automotive and industrial applications.

Group V - As Indicated: Group V base oils are used primarily in the creation of oil additives. Esters and polyolesters are both common Group V base oils used in the formulation of oil additives. Group V oils are generally not used as base oils themselves, but add beneficial properties to other base oils.
Old 07-22-2005, 03:11 PM
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To learn more about the different basestock oil groups, check out bobistheoilguy

Like I said, any fluid that meets a spec may be labelled as such i.e.: Red Line's D4 and High Temp ATFs are GL-4 approved.
Old 07-22-2005, 03:14 PM
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optomos,
I'll also add that most early Dexron ATFs were simply hydrocracked GrpI oils. The current Dexron III (H)/Mercon fluid is a Group II/III fluid.

However, GM launched the new Dexron VI fluid which is currently factory fill in all GM vehicles manufactured starting in May 05 and that pushes the GrpIII oils for better oxidative stability.

I'd say the Honda ATF Z-1 is a Grp II/III fluid, while their MTF is most likely a GrpI/III product.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 06:17 PM
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with our defective trannys, i wouldn't put anything other than honda ATF. what if the dealer blames the next tranny failure on the fluid... you never know..
Old 07-22-2005, 06:20 PM
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Remember that the fluid vendor will warranty the tranny from fluid related failure.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 06:41 PM
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Originally Posted by Michael Wan
Amsoil ATF=Peanut buttered across the spectrum. Not sure if it contains any GrpIII in it either, though I wouldn't be surprised as Amsoil considers GrpIII as synthetic.

Specialty Formulations Autoglide Honda Z-1 specific: Same price as Amsoil, but is designed specifically for Honda Z-1. It is a GrpIII/IV/V fluid, thus because it contains some GrpIII, they won't market it as a full syn, but as a syn blend.

However, both are excellent products but my nod goes to the Specialty Formulations fluid as its designed specifically for the Honda Z-1. I know the chemist who blends the fluids, and they do not cut corners.

As a less expensive alternative, Pennzoil Multi-Vehicle works quite well but it is again, peanut buttered across the spectrum for many apps.

Michael
so you're telling me that i should stick to Honda ATF Z-1?
Old 07-22-2005, 06:47 PM
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No. Pennzoil Multi-Vehicle ATF works fine.

However, I'm saying that for high-end syn ATFs, I suggest Specialty Formulations over Amsoil.

Thats all.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 06:55 PM
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Originally Posted by Michael Wan
No. Pennzoil Multi-Vehicle ATF works fine.

However, I'm saying that for high-end syn ATFs, I suggest Specialty Formulations over Amsoil.

Thats all.

Michael
do you know of any specialty formulated synthetics?
Old 07-22-2005, 08:31 PM
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The only synthetics that they produce, that I'm aware of are their Gear Lubes and Manual Transmission Lubes.

However, you could probably, legally, call their ATF a synthetic if you consider GrpIII a syn, which is legal after the Castrol vs. Mobil lawsuit; their ATF is a GrpIII/IV/V.

Lastly, they are soon to introduce a line of motor oils that should be as robust as Redline.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 08:42 PM
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Originally Posted by Michael Wan
The only synthetics that they produce, that I'm aware of are their Gear Lubes and Manual Transmission Lubes.

However, you could probably, legally, call their ATF a synthetic if you consider GrpIII a syn, which is legal after the Castrol vs. Mobil lawsuit; their ATF is a GrpIII/IV/V.

Lastly, they are soon to introduce a line of motor oils that should be as robust as Redline.

Michael
can i replace my tranny fluid with redline?
Old 07-22-2005, 08:49 PM
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Not if you have an AT.

Redline doesn't make a product that has the proper FMs for a Honda Z-1 app. Of course, you can add Lubegard Black to it, but I recommend AGAINST that.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 08:57 PM
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where can i find specialty formulations?
Old 07-22-2005, 09:00 PM
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www.specialtyformulations.com

From what I understand, all of their fluids are custom blended to order. The Honda Z-1 ATF is a special order, and you must contact them by e-mail.

Cost is about $6.50-$7/quart, if I recall correctly, if you order two gallons or more.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 09:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Michael Wan
www.specialtyformulations.com

From what I understand, all of their fluids are custom blended to order. The Honda Z-1 ATF is a special order, and you must contact them by e-mail.

Cost is about $6.50-$7/quart, if I recall correctly, if you order two gallons or more.

Michael
would this be a good alternative to Honda ATF Z-1?
Old 07-22-2005, 09:07 PM
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Yes. Their Autoglide Honda Z-1 specific product.

Michael
Old 07-22-2005, 10:47 PM
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Originally Posted by Michael Wan
Yes. Their Autoglide Honda Z-1 specific product.

Michael
IS THAT WHAT THEY ALREADY USE OR I HAVE TO ASK FOR THAT?
Old 07-23-2005, 06:44 AM
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Originally Posted by 1st timer
IS THAT WHAT THEY ALREADY USE OR I HAVE TO ASK FOR THAT?
Who is the 'THEY' you're referring to?

You can use

Honda Fluid
Pennzoil
Autoglide Honda Z1 from Specialty Formulations
Old 07-23-2005, 09:08 AM
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Originally Posted by MikePA
Who is the 'THEY' you're referring to?

You can use

Honda Fluid
Pennzoil
Autoglide Honda Z1 from Specialty Formulations
Does specialty formulations have a web site?
Old 07-23-2005, 09:09 AM
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Hello, a link was posted in this thread.
Old 07-23-2005, 09:12 AM
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Originally Posted by MikePA
Hello, a link was posted in this thread.
shit i ididn't see it man ,sorry about that.
Old 07-24-2005, 02:56 AM
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i am using MOTUL DEXRON III ATF and I am satisfied with the result, better than the HONDA ATF, i did drained twice and it gives me smoother shift overall

if you check the manual it says Dexron III can be used as well
Old 07-24-2005, 05:28 AM
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Originally Posted by samkws
if you check the manual it says Dexron III can be used as well
No, it doesn't. It says,

"Always use Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). If it is not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect shift quality. Have the transmission drained and refilled with Honda ATF as soon as it is convenient."
Old 07-24-2005, 02:20 PM
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I know when I put in Mobil 1 Synthetic Transmission fluid my tranny fucked up
Old 07-24-2005, 04:02 PM
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Originally Posted by 99bluetlwtt
I know when I put in Mobil 1 Synthetic Transmission fluid my tranny fucked up
could be coincedence!
Old 07-25-2005, 12:31 AM
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Originally Posted by MikePA
No, it doesn't. It says,

"Always use Honda Premium Formula Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). If it is not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect shift quality. Have the transmission drained and refilled with Honda ATF as soon as it is convenient."
they are both competitable, mine is syn blend so it does shifts smoother

same thing they say on using 5w-30, but it's good to use 5w-30 on our car too
Old 07-25-2005, 04:03 AM
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Originally Posted by samkws
they are both competitable, mine is syn blend so it does shifts smoother
Obviously, they're compatible since the Owners Manual indicates that Dexron III can be used temporarily. The point is it's a temporary solution, not a permanent one.

Originally Posted by samkws
same thing they say on using 5w-30, but it's good to use 5w-30 on our car too
I assume one of these was supposed to be 5w-20 and no, it's not the same.
Old 07-25-2005, 06:11 AM
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If I were you I'd go the safe route and get the Honda ATF


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