[Healeys] BJ8 transmission wear

[Earl Kagna]

Ken:

I agree with Mike.  I change the gearbox / overdrive oil every other engine 
oil / filter change.  I prefer Redline MTL or MT90 not so much for long 
life, but for the much better shift performance offered, without 
compromising the operation of the overdrive's cone clutch.

I think it's important to remember that the factory recommended engine oil 
in the gearbox - check the owners handbook or workshop manual to verify.  It 
is my opinion that non detergent oils will allow the usual debris to settle 
out of the oil and remain in the case.  I think it's better to have that 
debris remain in suspension in the oil - with frequent changes it will get 
flushed out of the case much more efficiently.

I would think that following this procedure will keep things in order 
without the need for additional filtering.  Just make sure that the screen 
and magnets are in place (especially in the BJ8 which has steel synchros 
rather than brass as in the earlier gearboxes).

I'm sure that there will be lots of diffent opinions on this - when it comes 
down to it, I guess you just have to take your pick.

Earl Kagna
Victoria, B.C.
BT7 tri-carb
BJ8

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Freese, Ken" <Kendall.Freese at Aerojet.com>
To: <healeys at autox.team.net>
Sent: Monday, June 25, 2007 10:01 AM
Subject: [Healeys] BJ8 transmission wear


Looking at my transmission yesterday and in consideration of
benefits/detriments of the steel syncronizers found in BJ8
transmissions, Michael Meindorfer had a good suggestion to change the
oil in those transmissions every time one changes the oil in the engine.
Steel grinding paste (likely from syncro wear) was found in the nooks
and crannys of the case. My practice was to change oil roughly every 3/4
years. Not good enough! The smaller needle bearings of the BJ8 trans
(all center shift?)are another factor.
Non-detergent oil changed often sounds better than long life synthetic
to me.
Perhaps the OD pump could be used to run the oil to a real external
filter?
Ken Freese
65 BJ8