Nissan Pathfinder transfer case

[Steve_RI]

When I had my 89 Pathfinder, I distinctly remember using Amsoil/Mobil1 75W-90 gear oil in the TC, and differentials; however, I noticed on my 92 that ATF is now spec’d for the TC. I had thought they made that change in later Nissan’s only – post 95 after the first major revision. A quick check back on some of the Nissan boards confirmed that a lot of people continue to run a 75W-90 gear oil or a GL-4 type fluid in lieu of ATF. I have the manual tranny, so I can relate to the concerns of mixing ATF with the gear lube.

I haven’t done any research on when and why Nissan switched, but I would prefer to use something that would offer better protection than ATF. I noticed that SF recommends their MTFGlide for those TC’s that spec an ATF. That would be my first choice, but I think Pennzoil syncromesh, available locally, would also be pretty good? Other alternatives locally would be Redline, which I’ve used with success in the transmission (mix of MT-90 and MTL)?

 

[MolaKule]

If your PathFinder TC specs an ATF (as does my 2003 PathFinder) then the viscosity is around 7.5 cSt.


MTFGlide is about 7.6 cSt and has more anti-wear agents in it and is a full synthetic.

Synchromesh is a GM/Chrysler MT fluid and has a thicker viscosity of about 9.5 cSt. It is a partial synthetic.

Redline (full synthetic) MTL has an even thicker viscosity of 11.1 cSt. MT90 is a 75W90 weight at about 14 cSt.

I'd stick with something in the 7.5 cSt range.

 

[Pablo]

You might want to check out:

MTF

Which has a slightly higher viscosity (9.6 cSt) and great gear protection, plus is a full synthetic. I have many customers using it in transfer cases.

 

[unDummy]

An Xterra I worked on required EITHER ATF or 90wt gear oil. Some Nissan owners match the TC fluid to the transmission type just in case a leak between the two occur.

I guess the Xcase can use whatever you want.

Thicker, IMO, is better if there is only splash lubrication. If there is a pump lubrication, don't be afraid of ATF or the MTFs/MTLs. You'll need to reference the factory service manual to see the Xcase guts.

Your location also has cold snowy winters. Other than offroad usage, you probably only need 4wd during the winter. If this is the case, thinner might make shifting easier and decrease MPG/HP loss through the xcase.

Besides the Ams, SF, and RL already mentioned, RP synchromax or maxgear are also options.

What is the requirements per the owners manual?

 

[Steve_RI]

The owners manual specs an ATF. Thanks for the replys - looks like I have a couple options then.