Gear Oil vs Engine Oil: What's the Difference?

Exactly! I learned that using the wrong oil can lead to significant wear in machinery. For instance, using engine oil in a manual transmission can cause slippage.

Does anyone have experience using synthetic gear oil? Iā€™ve heard it can extend the life of both gearboxes and differentials. Any insights?

I switched to synthetic gear oil in my truck and noticed a smoother operation. Plus, it holds up better in extreme temps!

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Thatā€™s great to know! So, what about older vehicles? Should we stick to conventional gear oil or is synthetic still the better choice?

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Iā€™d say it really depends on the condition of the vehicle. Some old cars may still function better with conventional oil due to their wear and tear.

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Yeah, my 1970s classic runs fine on regular oils. I think the key is to follow the manufacturer recommendations.

Has anyone experienced a significant difference after switching to high-mileage engine oils? Iā€™m curious if they truly make a difference in older cars.

I tried high-mileage oil in my 100K-mile car, and it seemed to reduce engine noise. So, Iā€™d say itā€™s worth considering if your car is aging!

Thatā€™s reassuring to hear! I might give it a shot. Iā€™m always looking to help my car perform better.

Just remember, using the correct viscosity for engine oil is crucial, especially in hot or cold climates. Has anyone had success with blends?

A blend can be a good compromise, depending on application. But Iā€™m intrigued about how they compare in terms of thermal stability.

Honestly, I think each one is tailored for its specific purpose. Someone should find a way to blend them for high-stress vehicles!

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That sounds a bit risky! Mixing oils can lead to unwanted reactions. Better to stick with whatā€™s designed for each system.

True, but it would save money if it worked! Just imagine a super-oil that does it all. Ha!

Great topic! Many people think gear oil and engine oil are interchangeable, but they serve very different purposes. Gear oil is thicker and designed for different types of friction.

Thatā€™s right! Gear oil is specifically formulated for the heavy loads in gearboxes, while engine oil is designed for the lubrication and cooling of engine components.

Iā€™ve heard some folks say that you can use engine oil in gearboxes if youā€™re in a pinch. Is that true or just a myth?

Itā€™s definitely a myth! Using engine oil in a gearbox can lead to increased wear and potential damage because it lacks the necessary additives for high pressure and extreme conditions.

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I always thought viscosity was the key factor. Does that mean thinner oil is better in engines?

Not necessarily. The right viscosity depends on the engine design. Some engines perform better with thicker oils, and others with thinner ones. Always check the manufacturerā€™s recommendations!