driveline fluid for my E46 XI

[Spezio]

In my quest for diff and TC fluids, I found out a couple things.I am more or less looking for input on said fluids I plan on using, and any experience with them as well. I plan on using Pentosin MTF2 75w-80 GL4 in the trans(manual) and the TC. I understand some use redline ATF fluid for that, but after reading a post on E46fanatics,  an oil analysis showed Pentosin to be closest to OE spec fluid and with the TC being all gear driven, it made sense to me.

 

The second part is the diff fluid. It seems Redline 75w-90 is the go to for this, but my old indy shop says he wouldn't.(They only use OE fluids from BMW). Zimbrick wants 22 bucks for half a qt....  seems excessive to me...I was going to use either redline, liquimoly, or Castrol syntrax. Any input on the matter is appreciated! 

[wasnt m3]

I recently changed from royal purple to redline mtl in the transmission in my m roadster and couldn't believe the difference. Feels so much smoother. I ordered from pegasus and had it next day.

[GunMetalGrey]

I find that the tranny fluid can make a huge difference, I ran royal purple in my e36 ZF this year and was very impressed by it. 
In regards to diff fluid for the e46 I just did mine with mobile 1 gear oil and it doesn't make any more noise than before, and may be a little bit smoother but it is pretty hard to tell. 
It seems that they are picky with what fluid you put in the trans, but don't really care whats in the diff.

[Spezio]

Thanks! There does seem to be more of debate when it comes to tranny fluid. I am between mobil and redline at the moment for the diff.. What do you run in your non M diff wasnt m3? (i thought you had the 3 wagon too)

[jc43089]

In my g250 manual which calls for dexron3 I have used Royal Purple Synchromax (their fluid for manuals that require ATF).  I switched to the UUC recommended Redline atf/gear oil mix when I put in the lightweight flywheel and the transmission seems to shift nicer.  This may only apply to the g250 though.

[wasnt m3]

Pretty sure I used Amsoil 75-90 if I remember correctly. This reminds me that I should probably do the diff fluid this spring, it's been about 4 years now. I really wouldn't worry about the brand of fluid for the diff so much as the trans.

[Spezio]

I would agree. I think the pentosin will work well.

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