Steve,

The trans filler orifice and drain orifice  tool for the 84 Vanagon is a
17 mm male hex, the same size as used in the trans of Mercedes.  I
bought one by Plews at Pep Boys, for about $2.00.

I learned from the list to check if one can open the filler plug before
draining the transmission in case the drain  plug is stuck.

I don't know anything about Syncro lubrication.

Best regards,

Tom Hanlon
Palm Springs, CA

Steven X. Schwenk wrote:

> In searching the new archive (how great to have it back), i was unable
>
> to find adequate answers to the following:
>
> Does anyone know what size allen/hex wrenches you need for the
> transmission and front differential drain and filler plugs on a '90
> syncro?  the transmission oil drain plug looks like it may require a
> special/modified wrench due to the angle...is this so?
>
> Does anyone in the bay area know where to buy these?
>
> Finally...Bentley calls for GL-4 SAE 80 gear oil for both the syncro
> trans and front dfferential.  Redline MTL is 75w80 GL-4 gear oil (with
>
> properities close to 85w at high temp) while Redline MT 90 is 75w90
> GL-4
> gear oil.  Otherwise, the two oils are the same.  I bought MTL before
> researching which i should use since it meets the required specs.  I
> am
> now wondering, however, whether MT 90 would be a better choice.  In a
> manual trans., would a heavier oil be better or worse than a lighter
> oil
> where both meet specs?  The van is driven in temps ranging from -6
> degrees F. to 100 degrees F., although typically in the 40 degree to
> 90
> degree range.
>
> thanks
> ...steve
> 90 syncro westfalia