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Drivetrain T5 Grinding Going Into 5th...

  • Thread starter Thread starter ragtop88
  • Start date Start date Nov 29, 2020

ragtop88

Member
Mar 11, 2019
11
2
13
Rhode Island
Nov 29, 2020
#1
  • Nov 29, 2020
  • #1
I went on ahead and changed the fluid in my recently rebuilt T5 (WC). I put 500 miles on it since the rebuild without issue and replaced the initial Dexron III fill with RP Synchromax. I thought it would be good practice to change the fluid soon after the overhaul. I saw a lot of advertising for RP Synchromax so I decided to give it a go. The issue I’m having is with shifting into 5th when the tranny is hot. It grinds unless I shift slowly. I believe the fluid is getting too thin and slippery and the brass blocker isn’t slowing down to allow proper engagement. Is this a common issue with RP in a T5? Should I just go back to Dexron III and kiss the $50+ fluid investment goodbye? Thanks!
 

nickyb

I gotta say i never painted my nuts, Never Ever
15 Year Member
Apr 3, 2009
2,980
1,621
153
nevada
Nov 29, 2020
#2
  • Nov 29, 2020
  • #2
Why not drain/ strain the rp,and use the dex3,see if problem goes away?You can save the strained rp just in case.for straining you can use paint or coffee filters.just my two cents
 
Reactions: Potomus Pete and ragtop88

Blown88GT

Founding Member
Nov 13, 1999
2,283
524
164
Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Nov 30, 2020
#3
  • Nov 30, 2020
  • #3
My rebuilt T5 requires Dexron/Mercom ATF III (Penzoil was recommended).
Synthetic (RP Synchromax) is not advisable, it is too slippery for the replacement synchros.

Warranty is void if using synthetic.
 

Willybill32

But at least it's tight!
5 Year Member
Jul 16, 2019
627
348
83
Lexington, KY
Dec 5, 2020
#4
  • Dec 5, 2020
  • #4
I put the Royal Purple Synchromax in my 98,000 mile T-5 and haven't had any issues with it. I was expecting leaks...
 
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