Gear Oil specification is NOT GL-1!

Maintenance advice to keep your Spider in shape.
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pinin_124

Gear Oil specification is NOT GL-1!

Post by pinin_124 »

I thought this might be of interest as I ran across several posts recommending an API GL-1 oil for the spider gearbox.
The only gear oil which was ever approved by Fiat (please reference the Service Manual) is called ZC 90 which is an SAE 80W-90, API GL 3 oil. It is a mineral, none EP (extreme pressure) oil.
EP, GL-4 and GL-5 oils usually contain additives which allow for better pressure load protection. However these additives might cause chemical reactions on the non-ferrous parts in the box, e.g. synchro's which in return has adverse effects on service life and shift comfort.
On the other hand the synchro's are save with the GL-1. But this oil does not provide sufficient pressure load protection which can cause wear on the gears and synchro's.

Check this link for more details on the API GL specs:
http://www.lubrizol.com/AutomotiveGearOil/GL5.asp

Since Fiat left the North American market I could not find this oil anywhere and ended up having a buddy bring me some back from Germany :wink:
Over there it is readily available at every Fiat dealer. It is marketed under the label of FL Selina. The oil is called Tutela ZC 90
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