Originally Posted by Trav
I totally understand where you are coming from with this but is not as simple as just a viscosity issue there are many other considerations to be taken into account.
Anti wear additives and seal compatibility can in some cases play a greater role. I can only share my own experience but many vehicle manufacturers recommend synthetic fluids but are adamant about running a mineral based transmission fluid.
Seal compatibility has been an issue in the past with some fluids. The other point to consider is if the fluid is not 100% compatible excess wear can be happening without you seeing any obvious signs like in an engine of it until the unit fails in some way, it may take a longer time and when it happens most people just contribute it to a blown transmission and accept it at that. In fact if spec fluid was used it may not have had any issues at all and may still be living a happy life.
I used to rebuild a lot of CV axles (still do a few here and there) using new joints from SKF and few others I buy in Europe, some joints take a very special grease that cost almost $50 for 7oz, the grease is really that special. After many hours of research and help from Mola I have found a few of what seems to be real alternatives, one really looks great.
Not cheap grease but cheaper. I will run 4 different greases in 4 joints for a year before accepting it as a replacement, for other peoples joints they will continue to get the super expensive stuff until I am 100% sure it will hold up.
In my opinion ^^^^^^^^^^ A great post here...
I totally understand where you are coming from with this but is not as simple as just a viscosity issue there are many other considerations to be taken into account.
Anti wear additives and seal compatibility can in some cases play a greater role. I can only share my own experience but many vehicle manufacturers recommend synthetic fluids but are adamant about running a mineral based transmission fluid.
Seal compatibility has been an issue in the past with some fluids. The other point to consider is if the fluid is not 100% compatible excess wear can be happening without you seeing any obvious signs like in an engine of it until the unit fails in some way, it may take a longer time and when it happens most people just contribute it to a blown transmission and accept it at that. In fact if spec fluid was used it may not have had any issues at all and may still be living a happy life.
I used to rebuild a lot of CV axles (still do a few here and there) using new joints from SKF and few others I buy in Europe, some joints take a very special grease that cost almost $50 for 7oz, the grease is really that special. After many hours of research and help from Mola I have found a few of what seems to be real alternatives, one really looks great.
Not cheap grease but cheaper. I will run 4 different greases in 4 joints for a year before accepting it as a replacement, for other peoples joints they will continue to get the super expensive stuff until I am 100% sure it will hold up.
In my opinion ^^^^^^^^^^ A great post here...