Friction modifier for TD5 R380 gearbox?

EWG · Jun 25, 2016

Gentlemen, can I have some advice please?
Last year I bought an 02 Defender TD5 110 which had only done 400 miles or so over the previous 5 years.
Total mileage is 110k.
At first everything was okay but after a thousand miles of use I started hearing a faint but audible "buzzing" noise in 5th gear only with power applied but silent on the overrun. I stopped using the vehicle until I could ask for a mechanic friend's opinion.

His opinion is that the noise is resonance in the 5th gear bearing carrier and he suggested a change of gearbox oil (MTF 94) and the possible addition of a friction modifier and left me to research this.
One of the ones I know of -Lucas Transmission additive- is unsuitable for a TD5 R380.

What would you recommend as suitable?

Thank you.

mdowds81 · Jun 25, 2016

Just my humble opinion but I have had great results with ZX1. Put into the engine and all parts of the drivetrain it makes the defender TD5 much smoother. I've also put some into the swivels to mix in with the grease. In the gearbox and transfer box it has made a big difference with the changes and reduced temperatures. That said I don't think any additive will make any difference if the components are not 100%.

Saltlick · Jun 26, 2016

Same as above, I've used zx1 extralube all over my disco with full synthetic lubes in everything bar the engine and the difference is very noticeable.

Just to add, I would probably do a fluid change on its own first and drive around for a few days to see if the noise is still there, so as not to mask any symptoms with the zx1, as it does makes thing quieter and far more slippery.

EWG · Jun 26, 2016

Thank you very much, both.

ZX1 it is then.

jamesmartin · Jun 26, 2016

EWG said:
Gentlemen, can I have some advice please?
Last year I bought an 02 Defender TD5 110 which had only done 400 miles or so over the previous 5 years.
Total mileage is 110k.
At first everything was okay but after a thousand miles of use I started hearing a faint but audible "buzzing" noise in 5th gear only with power applied but silent on the overrun. I stopped using the vehicle until I could ask for a mechanic friend's opinion.

His opinion is that the noise is resonance in the 5th gear bearing carrier and he suggested a change of gearbox oil (MTF 94) and the possible addition of a friction modifier and left me to research this.
One of the ones I know of -Lucas Transmission additive- is unsuitable for a TD5 R380.

What would you recommend as suitable?

Thank you.

strange diagnosis ,which bearing is he referring too,if it is a worn bearing replacement is the only answer if its a worn gear then greater oil hold to teeth surface may help for a while,though too much will effect baulk rings

lightning · Jun 26, 2016

Stopped driving it because of a faint but audible buzzing under power in fifth gear? Ruddy Nora, l wouldn't even slow down for that. Maybe speed up and see if you can drive through it...mine did it at 60mph but cleared at 65 mph.

Change the gearbox oil and transfer box oil but don't put any additives in as if you are not careful it can affect the synchromesh. Doing the oil change moved the noise on mine to speeds over 75mph so l only hear it when going down hill, and going down hill l am not under power anyway, so that's sorted.

lynall · Jun 27, 2016

Can highly recommend the difflock syn gearbox oil, really helps the 380.

Friction modifier for TD5 R380 gearbox?

EWG

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mdowds81

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Saltlick

Well-Known Member

EWG

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jamesmartin

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lightning

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lynall

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