tranny fluid type

[MATDIBug]

What is the best fluid for the manual tranny in a 99 NB TDI?

I appreciate the help.

[DZLBUG]

OEM VW is generally considered to be the best. G052 is what was specified originally, but has now been superceded by G060 and G070. Any of these will work, but I have heard good things about the new G070 as it seems to be a bit thinner (good for cold climates) but still a VW fluid.

Redline MTL or MT90 also work well, the MTL variety especially for those of us in the Great White North as it is not as "thick" when it gets cold. Some run straight MTL and others run a mix of that and MT90.

The most important thing is to get a GL4 spec 75w-90. Not GL5 or GL4/GL5. The GL5 additives tend to work fine for awhile, 20k miles or so, but then they begin to mess up the brass synchronizers in the transmission.

It will take slightly less than 2 liters to fill the transmission. Remember to remove the check/fill plug BEFORE the drain plug. That way, if you run into any trouble removing the check/fill plug...you'll at least still have lube in your transmission.

[MATDIBug]

DZLBUG, I appreciate your help. Right after I posted i saw all the links at the bottom referring me to different threads and I did a lot of research. Luckily for me because I had some Royal Purple Synthetic gear oil but as you mentioned before it is GL-4/5 not just 4.

I will take your advice and go with the MTl/90 mix, I have seen that in a few threads and even on TDIClub. Seems to be a good mix for colder areas as I have heard the MTL alone may be too thin.

Again, thanks!

[Growler]

fyi, I have that mix in my golf..
MTL/MT90 and I am going to swap it out for oem G070..

I have felt and driven both and the G070 wins hands down.

[ECS Tuning]

We have a few different options available (including complete service kits), but the RedLine MTL and OEM fluids are the best sellers:

Volkswagen New Beetle TDI > Maintenance > Transmission