Friction Modifier

[K80Kid]

Has anyone used a friction modifier in their gearbox? Did it help?

My transmission has become difficult to shift. This is particularly true with second gear. Sometimes, it doesn't fully engage and the gears will grind when I let out the clutch.

I have tried using both Mobil 1 and Redline 75W90 NS. The Redline is currently in the car, and it is better than the Mobil 1, but not perfect. I have also had the shifter cables adjusted with the special jig.

I realize that I might be looking at a major repair in the future, but I was wondering if a friction modifier might hold things off.

Opinions?

- Mike -
01S

[FrayAdjacent]

Probably couldn't hurt using an additive, or a different transmission fluid if your shifting is still not smooth. Especially after having the cables adjusted. Were the cable ends checked? Fraying or failing cables can stretch, possibly causing a crappy shifter feel.

Your car is an 01 S? How many miles on the odo?

[Rodger]

I've got the exact same problem on my '00 S....crappy shifting into second. I, too, have tried Redline gear oil with almost no success. A high-RPM shift into second causes a minor grind, and I've missed second a few times due to incomplete engagement.

Fourth isn't too hot, either. I'm almost to 39,000 miles.

No but I plan to.


I've always had success with Redline MTL in other cars. My box will get it on the next service.

[K80Kid]

Fray, Schnell!,

My 01S has 35K miles. In fact I recently had the clutch replaced because the pedal was so stiff that I couldn't bear to sit in traffic.

Between the stiff clutch (now fixed), and crappy shifting, I'm really becoming frustrated with the Boxster's transmission!

I have search the Internet in vain for an answer to the shifting problem. I keep hoping that someone with the same problem will share the solution. My mechanic says "new syncros", but I'm not so sure. I'll be visiting the dealership tomorrow to have someone else drive it.

- Mike -
01S

[K80Kid]

boxsterz,

Hmmm. I actually called Redline before changing the gear oil and discussed the problem. They strongly recommended the 75W90 NS. They said that the boxster's gearbox is a "no-slip" design and that I should use the NS oil.

I would be willing to try the MTL if I could only hear from someone that has had success using in their Boxster, especially an S.

- Mike -
01S