1981 Fiat spider Transmission & Coolant recommendations

[jahmalj]

Hello All,

I am looking for recommendations for the transmission and radiator fluid on my automatic 1981 spider. It has been sitting so I drained the oil (SAE 30) and will drain the radiator and transmission fluid. I am learning about cars and this one in particular so please bare with me.


Jahmal

[Frog2Spider]

As per 1981 Spider Owners manual

- Engine Oil - 10w 40 (15w40 is recommended, but harder to find. DO NOT use Synethic. It will leak)
AND a Zinc Additive
- Coolant - 50/50
- Brake Fluid - Dot 3 (Do not use Synethic. It will destroy the seals in your Master Cylinder and Calipers)
- Manual Transmission - GL -1
- Differential - GL -5 ( 75/90 Gear Oil)

Owners manuals are available and highly recommended. They can be down-loaded free or bought from a Fiat vender specializing in parts for our cars.

Dave.

[jahmalj]

Thank you @Frog2Spider

[Nanonevol]

Don't put GL1 in your automatic.

[Frog2Spider]

Yes, GL1 is for manual transmissions only, as stated. Just re-read your question.

An Automatic transmission is not a Fiat component. The Fiat manual has no automatic specifications and recommends having the transmission checked by a transmission shop, as different GM models were used.

Dave

[jahmalj]

@Frog2Spider I am not sure what you mean that the automatic is not a Fiat component. It's a 1981 Fiat Spider 2000 with an automatic transmission. Am I missing something here?

@Nanonevol Do you have a recommendation for the transmission fluid?

Thanks,

Jahmal

[jahmalj]

All,

I got it. I am showing the Dexron transmission fluid. Thanks for the help. BTW, I do have my manual now!


Jahmal

[RRoller123]

They used a 3 speed Chevy automatic transmission, from a Chevette if I am not mistaken.