View Full Version : Source for Synchromesh other than GM dealer?
For my TKO 600, Is there a source other than GM dealer for synchromesh fluid? Is there another brand that's equivalent yet?
Summit
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/nal-88900333
edwardb
06-29-2013, 10:46 PM
For my TKO 600, Is there a source other than GM dealer for synchromesh fluid? Is there another brand that's equivalent yet?
Pennzoil Synchromesh is considered an equivalent to the GM branded stuff, and available in most retail part stores, e.g. Advance, O'Reilly, etc. It's what I'm running in my T5z.
WIS89
06-30-2013, 07:01 AM
Giff-
I think that Mobil does the private labeling work for GM; i.e., they put their stuff in a GM labelled container. Likewise, there are probably other major brands--Penzoil as Edward mentioned, Castrol, etc. that should have an equivalent fluid. I hope I helped rather than confused...
Regards,
Steve
Summit
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/nal-88900333
Bob Cowan
07-01-2013, 09:49 PM
Pennzoil Synchromesh is considered an equivalent to the GM branded stuff, and available in most retail part stores, e.g. Advance, O'Reilly, etc. It's what I'm running in my T5z.
But it's not. At least, in high performance use it's not. It's clearly inferior to the real stuff in a TKO. Royal Purple feels the same, and is more expensive.
edwardb
07-01-2013, 10:37 PM
But it's not. At least, in high performance use it's not. It's clearly inferior to the real stuff in a TKO. Royal Purple feels the same, and is more expensive.
Just to be clear, what I stated wasn't my opinion, it's what Penzoil claims, e.g. that it meets the GM specs. At least a 2:1 difference in price, and the Penzoil is available just about everywhere. So I stand by my recommendation, and as I stated, it's what I use. I'm only a street driver, so if there is any difference doubt it will matter for me. Penzoil is a reputable brand and has been at this game for a while.
The GM packaged stuff and Penzoil are dino oils. Royal Purple is a synthetic. And even more expensive. I would expect it to be better. But whether it adds value or performance depends on the application and personal experience.
FWIW, lots of chatter on this topic on lots of forums. A bunch of brands out there, and lots of ideas about what works best, etc. The OP may want to do his own research.
Avalanche325
07-02-2013, 11:59 AM
Summit. Arrives at your door in a couple days. You only need 3 quarts, so I wouldn't sweat it if the dealer is a couple dollars more.
Tremec puts a piece of paper in the box that says:
"We recommend GM synchromesh part # 12345349, or Dexron III / Mercon Spec ATF fluid for all TKO
transmissions."
It doesn't say Pennzoil, RedLine, Royal Purple, or anything else (all great products BTW). So it is GM Synchromesh for me. I'll spend the extra $10 on my brand new $2300 transmission. It does seem like everyone goes for Synchromesh. I haven't heard anyone that has been using Dextron III.
FYI - That part number has changed. It is now labelled as AC Delco and is part #88900333.
Bob Cowan
07-02-2013, 12:11 PM
Just to be clear, what I stated wasn't my opinion,
Just to be clear, what I stated IS my opinion. :) Take it for what it's worth. Because opinions are like.... well, we know what they're like.
I'v tried all three in street and track situations. I don't notice any difference between RP and GM. But there is a distinct difference with Penzoil; the trans doesn't shift as smooth. I continue to use GM, and I get it from Summit Racing.