Help with synthetics

2008 Tacoma PreRunner V-6

Need some help...

I have recently switched to Amsoil XL 5w-30 "synthetic" motor oil w/ a OEM Toyota oil filter. I am ok with my engine choice; now for the rest:

Differential - I have a Detroit TrueTrac installed and it calls for petroleum/mineral based gear oil. Can I run synthetic gear oil (Amsoil severe gear)? Eaton claims synthetics decrease torque and my result in chatter? What is the best type, weight, and brand of gear oil to run w/ my set up? What about Lucas heavy duty gear oil?

Transmission - I would like to go with all Amsoil synthetics can I run synthetic ATF fluid? What is best for our transmissions synthetic or petroleum based. What weight ( I live in Florida)?

Any help is appreciated.

 

The service grade specification is the key to determining which lubricant will work in your differential. Look for a "GL-4", "GL-5" or similar spec in your locker's operating handbook. I suspect that you'll find AMSOIL Severe Gear will work without problem.

I don't understand Eaton's statement about how synthetics will reduce torque. If anything, by reducing friction losses, synthetics, especially AMSOIL products, ought to increase the power (torque) transmitted through a differential.

AMSOIL ATF is compatible with almost all transmissions. Again, look at your owner's handbook for the service specification. A few automatic transmissions, like the one in my wife's Honda Fit Sport, demand a special, low friction ATF which is also available from AMSOIL. AMSOIL's "AMO" ought to work for you.

Synthetic ATFs are especially useful for folks like you that live in tropical climates. Synthetics have significantly higher vapor/boiling points. This is important when towing boats during hot weather. Synthetics will just last longer without failure.

If you have trouble figuring out which AMSOIL product is best for any of your applications, go to AMSOIL.com and use their application guide. If that's not enough, the AMSOIL tech guys do take 'phone calls and respond to e-mail inquiries.