Saab Tech Talk (STT)

Workshop for classic Saab models => Classic Saab 9-5 (MY 1998-2010) => Topic started by: sean treacy on 10 December 2011, 10:25:43 AM

Title: gearbox oil change
Post by: sean treacy on 10 December 2011, 10:25:43 AM
hi all,i have a 9-5 aero with manual gearbox and i am about to have it tuned by abbott racing,but before i do i wanted to get most service items done which i have had done but not the gearbox oil replaced.i have no proof if when or if ever has been changed so with 120k on clock would you guys reccomend i get this done or is it not really needed???.any thoughts on this would be very much apreciated.
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: JB on 10 December 2011, 08:26:01 PM
What year is it?

Around 2002 (IIRC) they changed to a new fully synthetic gearbox oil (MTF0063 which looks like strawberry juice). Before that the oil (still fully synthetic) was grey. I changed the (old grey) oil on my MY00 9-5 and noticed an improved gear change.

If you've got the new oil I wouldn't worry about changing it, but if you've got the old type then I would. There should be a label of some sort in the engine compartment (or on the gearbox itself)  to say if you have the newer type as it doesn't mix with other oils.

If you do have the old type then you have to do three changes to flush out the old one fully. See http://www.genuinesaab.com/psi/files/93-95man-oil.htm
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: Audax on 10 December 2011, 10:10:49 PM
Eh? pre 02 was Dexron III (dexron 6 is fully compatible) and was, bright red. After 2002 it was ATF3309 which was, bright red. Don't mix the fluids as it will be expensive.
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: JB on 10 December 2011, 11:05:01 PM
Manual gearbox oil... not automatic.  ;)
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: Audax on 11 December 2011, 08:59:39 AM
Doh! Shouldn't be allowed to post after wine.  ::)
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: stevetreacy on 12 December 2011, 06:45:47 PM
Hi Sean,

The new oil was used from gearbox serial number V35479. Have a look on top of the box to get your serial number. I would just change it anyway, you will get a smoother change and overall reduced friction, so runs better, will be worth it if you tune it too.

steve
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: Norfolk Jim on 16 December 2011, 10:31:24 AM
Hi Sean - didn't do mine -03 MY and all was fine.

Personally I cannot see why you feel the need to change it? The increase in power as far as i can see would have no effect on the gearbox it self but would on the clutch. Might be wrong but the gears all still turn - just slightly quicker?
Title: Re: gearbox oil change
Post by: phoenix on 16 December 2011, 11:54:47 AM
Oil plays a crucial part in protecting the gears from wear. As you up the power and torque, the pressure on the mating surfaces increases. The oil inbetween them has a shear point, and if this is exceeded it ceases to lubricate properly. Thus a better oil can help protect the gears :)