4N 4RING

The previous liquid was fairly clean, did not smell burnt, but it had shinny tiny pieces of metal. After two days I released 1/2 L from the transmission (new) fluid and it seemed to have same flakes (evidently I refilled).
I got some resistance when shifting in first, second less in third gear before changing the fluid. No improvement after changing fluid. The transmission does not whine and the car works fine.
Any advises, thoughts?

DM

This would also explain the resistance while shifting, especially in lower gears. I never have worked on an Audi tranny but have seen this in other cars , (Acura). Might want to use Redline synthetic oil. I heard this helps gearboxes shift smoother.

4N 4RING

I am using 75W90 G50 from the dealer ($23/L). Would Redline be better? If yes, what type,same 75w90?

DM

If they are,it is the synchros. They help to mesh the gears when they are spinning at different speeds. They are made from softer metal and subject to wear faster, especially if you force the shifter. If the fluid you are buying is synthetic I doubt Redline would help you. however it is cheaper than $23/l. I would use the same weight recommended by Audi. I have found it helps in Acuras but they use motor oil 30W in their gearboxes. The gearbox is OK to use with worn synchros, it just won't shift as smooth as it did in the past. To replace them requires complete disassembly of the gearbox.

Edd W

I would agree that it is probably wear on the synchro hubs. The only other thing it could be is the clutch not realeasing fully or the pedal not being pressed fully to the floor. This puts extra work on the synchro's so could be causing the extra metaliic sheen in the oil.

4N 4RING

The flakes seem to be silver (I will verify), but the sincros are surely worn. Tanks for details.

Mark - Steve's bro'

I put Redline in my '86 BMW 5-speed, which had 175k on it. It shifted great, even in winter, BUT it started leaking after a few months. I ended up replacing the output shaft seals (rear wheel drive) and it continued to leak. I put standard fluid back in and the leaking slowed way down.

My point - you might want to think twice if it's a car with a lot of miles on it. Synthetic may be able to find its way out the seals.

Mark.