Gearbox oil change

Phil-E30

Active member
Afternoon all,

Just had a couple of questions about changing my gearbox oil.

First off, what oil is recommended and how much of it will I need? I've read varying figures, it seems to be something around 1.5l?

Second, is there a guide on how to do it? Haven't had a look at it yet and wanted to check a how to if such a thing existed.

Thanks!! :thumbsup:
 
Most important thing is to remove the filler plug before you drain it , nothing quite like realising you can't get the filler out when you've got a tray full of old oil :cry:
 
I've seen Amsoil mentioned, would the oil at the link below suit the Z4M?

http://www.opieoils.co.uk/p-1051-amsoil-synthetic-manual-transmission-fluid-mtf.aspx
 
I believe if you take your own container to your local BMW spares place they will fill it with the correct stuff. You'll pay the premium, though.
 
Lots of people seem to recommend non-OEM oils such as Red Line, Royal Purple and Amsoil. Just wanted to see if there was any recommendations from the guys here. Not keen on paying over the odds for the BMW stuff, which could be bettered.
 
I used Red Line from Opie when I had mine changed - two US quarts. Seems absolutely fine, not sure I would claim a noticeable improvement though.
 
tertius said:
Phil-E30 said:
Which Red Line did you use Tertius? 75W90?

The invoice says "Red Line Synthetic Manual Transmission Lubricant MTL 75w80 GL4"

redline specs d4 atf check their website. i bought a gallon jug so i would have some left over for the
power steering system.
 
I used red line mtl also , but on my old z3m coupe , and just last week on my current heap of crap slk , fresh oil made a difference on both . Never understood why some people change the engine oil so many times but ignore the gearbox and diff .
It even made a noticeable difference on my pick up truck .
 
I think I will get the Red Line and do the change soon. I think the fact that BMW tell people that some of the fluids will last the life of the car puts some people off changing, but I think it's completely worthwhile.
 
i need to do mine again and the Diff...i may be lazy this year and just pay while the car is in for its inspection
 
Haha, that sounds fair enough! I take it the car needs to go up a fair height then? Which oil is recommended for the diff and what quantity of oil is needed?
 
Phil-E30 said:
Haha, that sounds fair enough! I take it the car needs to go up a fair height then? Which oil is recommended for the diff and what quantity of oil is needed?
redline web site states 75w140 gear oil a little over 1 quart so pick up 2 quarts

have fun
 
Back
Top Bottom