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Thread: API GL5 and GL4

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    593

    Default API GL5 and GL4

    I bought a Valvoline 75W-90 oil for the differential and has put it in. Later I noticed that it is API GL4, and that there are other transmission oils which API GL5. Is it fine to leave the oil as it is or should I change to GL5?
    1994 520i with M50 engine, manual transmission and air conditioner.
    VIN: GG45422

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Location
    New Milford, Ct
    Posts
    271

    Default

    GL5 is for differentials
    GL4 rating is for manual transmissions. GL5 has some additve that is not good for transmissions.
    To be safe, change it.
    Are you using synthetic gear oil?
    Support your American Flag Merchant Marine
    No BMW at this time, eyeing a 91 318iS. 00 Saab 9-5, 89 Bronco XLT, 05 Kawi Z1k, 00 Ducati 748S Bip

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
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    593

    Default

    The one I put into the rear differential is a semisynthetic
    http://www.valvolineeurope.com/index...3ca705c1f93e12
    The GL-4 one. Didn't know about various GLs until I saw another gear oil with GL-5 marking.

    Gearbox has Mobil1 ATF.
    1994 520i with M50 engine, manual transmission and air conditioner.
    VIN: GG45422

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    593

    Default

    Really do not want to change it. Just put it in. So much waste..
    1994 520i with M50 engine, manual transmission and air conditioner.
    VIN: GG45422

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Jan 2004
    Location
    New Jersey
    Posts
    529

    Default

    I didn't know I had an LSD until I got the spec sheet from the board here.
    (Thanks again to Ausmpower)

    I had the rear oil changed 2 years ago and don't know if my indy put in the right stuff, I guess I'll change it soon to make sure; along with new blue coolant, brake fluid change and tranny.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    593

    Default

    Anybody can say anything else? Dump the new (GL4) oil and go for GL5?
    1994 520i with M50 engine, manual transmission and air conditioner.
    VIN: GG45422

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Mar 2004
    Posts
    404

    Default

    You really need to change it. GL5 lubes have additives, used to be sulphur that make them suitable for the Extreme contact Pressures that occur with hypoid gears. Sometimes you'll see EP on the label. These additives prevent the metal to metal transfer between pinion and ring gear. Sulphur was/is a problem for brass synchronizer rings which is why transmissions use GL4 lubes.

    Paul Shovestul


    Quote Originally Posted by t_marat
    Anybody can say anything else? Dump the new (GL4) oil and go for GL5?
    .....Got to keep the loonies on the paath.

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    USA
    Posts
    1,839

    Default

    i would continue to use either ATF or an MTL specifically designed for manuals that spec ATF.

    Personally i would use Redline D4 ATF as it stays fluid in very low temps (im using it currently) and provides GL-4 protection to manuals, and has high temperature stability from the new Dextron 4 spec.

    also, since your transmission is a manual (and im elaborating my response from your other thread) add a tube (50 grams) of lubro moly molybdenum disulfide gear oil additive to every 2 quarts of fluid required in the tranny. that will make the fluid act similar to GL-5 but will be far superior for your car. it will shut the whining in your tranny up REALLY GOOD!

    and yes i know you cant get Redline where you are at, so have it imported or something!
    Alusil, Dinan DME | ITG Air Filter | Eibach/Bilstein HD | 26/20 Swaybars | Iridium plugs | Depo/ProLumen HID | Optima batt. | no AC | Stoptech brake lines, Frozen rotors, brass bushings, Superblue

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    593

    Default

    OK, thanks everybody.
    1994 520i with M50 engine, manual transmission and air conditioner.
    VIN: GG45422

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Aug 2005
    Posts
    593

    Default

    Changed the fluid to Chevron GL5.
    Interesting is that the Chevron is cheaper that Valvoline (GL4) and Essor (GL5), all 75W-90. I always regarded Esso as the Mobil for the "poor", as they are both ExxonMobil trademarks. And here is a Chevron, which is even cheaper. There was also Mobil1 SHC-LS GL5 full synthetic, costing 2.6 times more than Chevron. Mobil1 GL4 oil was even more expensive, 2.8 times. Must be because it was in a cool black canister
    1994 520i with M50 engine, manual transmission and air conditioner.
    VIN: GG45422

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