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5 speed gearbox oil level and capacity

Posted: 04 May 2026, 22:13
by Beakster
Hi,

Going to do a gear box oil change. How much do I need? I saw 3.5L in Haynes, but see recommandations of 4, 4.5 and 5 online.

What's the fill level? Some people say 15mm below hole for 5 speed, other say until it comes out.

Thanks

Re: 5 speed gearbox oil level and capacity

Posted: 05 May 2026, 06:27
by ZsZ
The official quantity depends on the tranny code and if the van is petrol or diesel and early or late syncro or not. 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 and 4.5 are all appear in the official repair manuals. All are quantities for a dry box.

Later it was defined by the level to ease shifting in cold weather.

The 15mm below fill plug is the easiest to set. Usually you need to buy 3L for a petrol and 4L for a diesel.

Re: 5 speed gearbox oil level and capacity

Posted: 05 May 2026, 06:57
by Beakster
So mine is a 1984 5 speed, 2wd, and was originally diesel (now ADY). Sounds like I need to put 4 litres in there.

Where is the gearbox code? And where can I find a reference of code to capacity and fill level?

Thanks

Re: 5 speed gearbox oil level and capacity

Posted: 05 May 2026, 10:38
by ZsZ
The code ia stamped in the bottom of the housing.

Image

You will need the original 5spd box repair manual.

VW T25 - Sir Adventure https://share.google/VYHnQDow7Ank3aofO