For my TKO 600, Is there a source other than GM dealer for synchromesh fluid? Is there another brand that's equivalent yet?
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For my TKO 600, Is there a source other than GM dealer for synchromesh fluid? Is there another brand that's equivalent yet?
Last edited by edwardb; 06-29-2013 at 10:50 PM.
Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread. Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023. Build 6: Mk5 Roadster 30th Anniversary #11,258. Build Thread.
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
.boB "Iron Man"
NASA Rocky Mountain, TTU #42, HPDE Instructor - Retired 10/24
BDR 1642: Coyote, 6 Speed Auto, Edelbrock Supercharger
Member: www.MileHiCobraClub.com
www.RacingTheExocet.com
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.
Last edited by edwardb; 07-01-2013 at 10:41 PM.
Build 1: Mk3 Roadster #5125. Sold 11/08/2014. Build 2: Mk4 Roadster #7750. Sold 04/10/2017. Build 3: Mk4 Roadster 20th Anniversary #8674. Sold 09/07/2020. Build Thread and Video. Build 4: Gen 3 Type 65 Coupe #59. Gen 3 Coyote. Legal 03/04/2020. Build Thread. Build 5: 35 Hot Rod Truck #138. Build Thread. Sold 11/9/2023. Build 6: Mk5 Roadster 30th Anniversary #11,258. Build Thread.
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.
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.
.boB "Iron Man"
NASA Rocky Mountain, TTU #42, HPDE Instructor - Retired 10/24
BDR 1642: Coyote, 6 Speed Auto, Edelbrock Supercharger
Member: www.MileHiCobraClub.com
www.RacingTheExocet.com