I'm changing the oil in my 5spd trans today... I feel stupid for asking this question but even in my manual I can't find the answer.... What oil do I use?

In the manual is says gear oil and then contradicts itself and says 25w motor oil...

Can I get a recommendation on what oil to use, please?

 

We need to know what transmission you have. They all take different fluids, and its very important to put the right one in.

 

I used Pennzoil Synchromesh. Comes in tall yellow bottle with a little pointy top to squirt it in. Says it's good with GM and Dodge manual transmissions. Everywhere I read said to used regular 10w30 motoroil. I have the NV2500 5spd by the way.

 

Ok, how do I know which tranny I have? I know theres a ring with an ID on it but I just can't quite see it.... If that's the only way to know which trans then I'll try and take a picture of it.

Thanks for the help guys

 

Well, the '87-'91 Dakotas came with 2 manual transmissions. One is the A535, and the other is the NP2500. My best advise if you don't know is call your local Dodge dealership, give them your VIN, and ask.

 

Well looking at the transmission and considering the age of the vehicle it may have been replaced at some point as it looks newer and still has the "fill" sticker intact and it's also painted. So it might not even be the original trans. If I get a look at the ID will that tell me? How about some pics?

 

Ok, so after doing some research, I found out some info. When I read it I actually remembered reading this before but I forgot...

The A535 is the older New Process Gear version of the New Venture Gear NV2500. Same transmission, different name when the company changed to New Venture Gear. These transmissions use 10W-30 motor oil or 10W-30 synthetic motor oil.

If you think it was changed by the PO, you need to be sure what it is, cause the AX-15 takes Mopar 75W-90 API grade GL-5 gear oil or equivalent. The NV3500 specifically takes Mopar Manua Transmission Lubricant P/N 4761526 or equivalent (I believe AMSOIL makes an equivalent).

Like I said before, you need to be sure, cause mixing up the fluids WILL cause failure.