I replaced my tranny fluid in February with Honda MTF. The shifting is notchy with a trace of dog teeth grind on almost every shift. I would like to try a different fluid type, but I am concerned that I might choose one that would damage my transmission.
It is my understanding that synchromesh works by the hydraulic friction of the fluid in the cone area, causing the teeth ring on the collar to speed up or down to the mating gear speed.

Is it safe to use GM synchro? Is there a better fluid?

BTW, I do track days. Perhaps that explains the lack of longevity of the fluid. I dunno.

Thanks in advance,

Jim 2004 AP2

 

GM Syncromesh modified friction is safe to use, yes. Amsoil is better though: http://www.amsoil.com/catalog.aspx?code=MTFQT-EA

To be honest, the new Honda MTF is supposed to be really good. It shouldn't be giving you problems after only 3 months. I suspect something else is amiss. FWIW, I'll be using Amsoil on my next tranny fluid change.

 

a lot of people on here run GM synchromesh friction modified and swear by it, the only downside like the honda mtf is that it doesnt last long maybe 10-15k miles. but it def makes the tranny shift like butter. by the way the honda mtf you were using was the newer stuff right? green label with white cap?

 

yeah white cap is the new one. I use honda mtf on both my CR and my Si and just change it every 10k miles. No issues ever. The six speed trannys seem to work better with fluid change outs.

 

I think so. What did the old one look like?

Jim

 

how is your clutch fluid, if it is at all dirty or old I'd change the clutch fluid. I try to do it on a regular basis. A clutch rod adjustment is also a good thing to try, only takes 2 minutes to do. If after those two items you are still having issues you might look at other fluids.

 

honda mtf is gold, but amsoil is sex

 

OLD MTF BLACK LABEL




NEW HONDA MTF II GREEN LABEL WHITE CAP

 

i didnt like the feel of mtf II when i drove my buddys 07, then he switched to gm synchromesh friction modified and it feels 10x better. u honestly cant go wrong with gm fluid

 

Didn't the "new" Honda MTF come out like 5 years ago now?

Some people swear by it, but GM Synchromesh FM is also popular, as is Amsoil. Considering the hackneyed approach Honda takes towards transmission and diff fluids, I've never put much stock in Honda fluid, fwiw.

Having used all three, GM is better than Honda for my 04, but Amsoil is even better than GMSFM. The GM fluid is good but seems to break down sooner than Honda/Amsoil. So far I've been happiest with Amsoil in my 04, but all trans. are different, and a characteristic of the Aisin trans. is that it gets notchier as it breaks in.