I can't say that any one brand is the best. There is just too much
advertising hype. I would look for a high quality fluid meeting the GL-5 or
better spec and for most usage any viscosity around 75w-90 will do. The auto
differentials rarely cause any grief. I have seen regular fluids cook out
and then damage can occur. You should check level occasionally no matter
what fluid you use.  I tend to use the Mobil 1 or Valvoline as both of these
are readily available.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Stuart MacMillan
Sent: Wednesday, August 28, 2013 11:34 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Transmission/gear lube

Apparently they changed the additives since I last used it.  I have an
automatic now, what's the best synthetic for that?

Stuart

-----Original Message-----
From: Dennis Haynes [mailto:d23haynes57@hotmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2013 9:25 PM
To: 'Stuart MacMillan'; vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: RE: Transmission/gear lube

While the MT-90 may be great for synchronizer performance the lack of some
EP additives means less protection for gears and I would be most concerned
with protecting the ring and pinion set.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Stuart MacMillan
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2013 2:21 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Transmission/gear lube

Heavy loads are harder on the clutch than the transmission.  I've been a
longtime fan of Red Line MT-90 because of improved shifting, but any good
full synthetic should be fine.

Stuart

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
ralph meyermann
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2013 10:49 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Transmission/gear lube

Any suggestions on heavier transaxle lube when pulling a trailer/loaded
heavy? I just want to know if its a good or bad idea for my 4 speed.
Velma 82 1.9L AAZ  td westy