Nelson, thank you so much for all your videos. We get to interact and change or collect information from others, it is a big deal for us come with you to. Really appreciate it. Just bought a 923 with a brand new engine in it my engine pressure is 90 pounds at the start and 85 when its hot I can't believe it. I lucked out. Great tires great Transmission very happy. Bought it from a guy in LA who has a fleet of these and rent them out to the Hollywood people. He said ours was in the movie Valkyrie with Tom Cruise. I looked underneath the seat and there I found a black eye patch, can believe it. No just joking. haha
A moving Army needs a supply chain to sustain, using motor oil means one less item to keep up with. Now that the vehicle is out of service (the Military) it would make sense to switch over to transmission fluid. Great job!
@@acme663ryoI have an M923A2, and I'm really thinking about turning it into a dump bed and also after watching your video I might try the transmission fliud swap too
Maybe the military run oil because it's easier to get/less prone to cooking than trans fluid. As you're treating her nicely, you won't see any disadvantage to the fluid and as you say, plenty of advantages! I agree with GoKartBuyer, it's easy to tell the difference sometimes in any auto trans with different fluids. Kiddo is growing up incredibly fast! :)
My 1985 M9323a1 has motor oil in the trany and it runs ok,around 140-160 degreas even on the hwy in south Texas summer. Mine was depo rebuilt in 2002, I bought it October 2014 with 8800 miles on it.
I know I'm 9 years late to the game... but it is GOOD to hear that someone else has the "CHUG" going from 2nd to 1st gear. I need to stop that somehow lol.
@@acme663ryo anything to help. Just to make sure, this is the P/N from NAPA? NHF 85405 How has it been running since... 9 years ago when this video was made? lol. I just got my M923a2 and have been binging a lot of your videos. I found the air filter was last changed Sep-1st 2009, so that made me thing "time to reset everything back to zero so I know what's in my truck"
Nelson.... have you ever had any issues with the transmission temperature running hot ? I have a 85' AM General 5 ton with the 5 speed Allison and my temp guage is running between 240/270...... I just changed the transmission fluid and inner filter and pan gasket, also installed a new temp sensor and new guage and it's still running hot ? What are your numbers ??! Thanks,Tom
is it an MT 650, or an HT 750. or is an MD or HD model? If it's MT or HT, 30 weight was sufficient, especially in hot weather. If I recall, it will take about four services to get all the old fluid purged. If it's a 653 or 753, they tend o shift hard when down shifting. Military nomenclature could be a little different too.
Sounds good. I know it's like comparing apples to oranges but, I changed out the transmission fluid in my mazda to fully synthetic mercon and I notice a difference in shifting.
NelsonStudios Im not sure same way. In principle maybe. The valve body in the Tribute is way smaller and unfortunately has an internal, non serviceable filter. Oh and it's a P.O.S. lol although about 150k all original, I guess I can't complain...
Can you or did you do a video on the rear end differentials? I haven't checked mine yet. Thanks for all the great vids. Also a how to vid on the bare minimum greasing lube points and frequency would be nice.
To check the diffs, pull the side plug out with a 1/2 ratchet and stick your finger down in the hole. Drain from the bottom. As for the greasing I think most of these trucks are over greased if that is possible. Don't forget the top and bottom kingpin fittings on the front axle, the steering shaft top and bottom (you will have to remove that cover), that little stubby drive line in the front and the bogie pivot bearing on the bottom between the two rear axles on each side. The rest grease twice a year or every couple thousand miles. Or if you sink it in the mud, grease it all after you get it out and hosed off.
I have two M925A2 trucks with the Allison. Is there any update on this video? I have motor oil in mine and will be changing the fluid in the spring. I just wanted to know if this is still working out for you. Thanks and please keep the 5 ton videos coming. They have been a HUGE help for me!
I have never bothered to do a full flush just drain what is in the transmission and be done with it. Alison recommend a full sync oil. This is what is in mine. 10,000+ miles now no issues. Still highly recommend.
Nelson, I LOVE your videos. They are GREAT and I have learned allot about working on and maintaining my truck. These trucks do have allot of similarities to commercial trucks, But there are quite a few things that are specific To them. I have a question for you all... I bought an "83" m923 about a year ago. This truck is just SSOOO MUCH FUN to drive. But, I don't understand why there seems to be so much engine failure with these trucks at mileage below 50,000 miles. I have driven trucks since I was 18 and they should get damn near 500,000 before they have any real problems. Is it just a lack of proper maintenance? Or is there some other reason. Mine has the Allison Trans and it has the original 1100x20 no-directional tires. I want to keep this truck as original as possible. I AM trying to figure out how to convert the 24 volt to 12 volt for a cigarette lighter and to put a radio in it... Any suggestions?:~)
+DESPRADO111 I have wondered that myself, especially since I have now blown one. People talk about the 855 with reverence, how it is unkillable and yet everyone seems to have a story.
With the switch to actual transmission fluid not 30w motor oil it shifts much better but I don't think any of them shift without ringing the drivelines once in a while. The downshift can really crash and bang sometimes.
I too recently performed the conversion from 10w motor oil to TranSynd Allison Trans fluid. Major improvement to overall transmission performance. Best upgrade to my M923A2 so far. Upshifts and downshifts noticeably improved. Thank You Nelson for taking the time to share your efforts with the community. -V
fredboat I hope you have a great time with it. You can get all the manuals and stuff as free downloads over on steelsoldiers. They are a pita to navigate but beats buying them.
+urgentcareguy3 I have a "83" M923. The top speed I get with the peddle to the floorboard while running down the freeway is 57 MPH. I still have the 1100 x20's on it. With the Allison Trans.
+Lantern Lab to do a flush on a ford trans it take 18-20 quarts (this is a full flush converter and all). I only use Royal Purple Oils and at $13 a quart for Max ATF it aint cheap lol.
+Lantern Lab And, don't forget, if you change over to full synthetic. You will HAVE to change the oil in the torque converter too... That means you are probably looking at around 8 to 10 gallons all together.
+reesysleather For the record it is also what Kenworth and Allison told me. Actually they told me to use the new synthetic but said this would be fine.
Sometimes I got a growl/rattle in 3/4/5 when coasting downhill. For an under floor rattle or squeak grab a light and inspection mirror and make sure that hoses or brackets are not touching the bottom of the cab. I read someplace where a guy had the rear cab mount in upside down and it caused all sorts of strange noises. If no luck try greasing all drive lines and front axle spring perches. Take the weight off the axle by lifting on the front crossmember with some blocking, get the spring and shackles to unload from truck weight if you can. Also put a wrench on ALL of the bolts that hold the spring mounts to the frame. Make sure they are tight, mine were loose. If that doesn't fix it shoot me a line back and I will think of other stuff.
Nelson, thank you so much for all your videos. We get to interact and change or collect information from others, it is a big deal for us come with you to. Really appreciate it. Just bought a 923 with a brand new engine in it my engine pressure is 90 pounds at the start and 85 when its hot I can't believe it. I lucked out. Great tires great Transmission very happy. Bought it from a guy in LA who has a fleet of these and rent them out to the Hollywood people. He said ours was in the movie Valkyrie with Tom Cruise. I looked underneath the seat and there I found a black eye patch, can believe it. No just joking. haha
+blinko656 Sounds like a nice truck.
I did this on my M923A2. Full synthetic from Amsoil. Transmission works great.
A moving Army needs a supply chain to sustain, using motor oil means one less item to keep up with. Now that the vehicle is out of service (the Military) it would make sense to switch over to transmission fluid. Great job!
Just subbed. I drive that same hill almost every single day.
Cool, what reason?
@@acme663ryo I live just outside of town, make alot of trips for work.
@@acme663ryoI have an M923A2, and I'm really thinking about turning it into a dump bed and also after watching your video I might try the transmission fliud swap too
Maybe the military run oil because it's easier to get/less prone to cooking than trans fluid. As you're treating her nicely, you won't see any disadvantage to the fluid and as you say, plenty of advantages! I agree with GoKartBuyer, it's easy to tell the difference sometimes in any auto trans with different fluids.
Kiddo is growing up incredibly fast! :)
My 1985 M9323a1 has motor oil in the trany and it runs ok,around 140-160 degreas even on the hwy in south Texas summer. Mine was depo rebuilt in 2002, I bought it October 2014 with 8800 miles on it.
I know I'm 9 years late to the game... but it is GOOD to hear that someone else has the "CHUG" going from 2nd to 1st gear. I need to stop that somehow lol.
Fluid change helps but it never went away entirely.
@@acme663ryo anything to help. Just to make sure, this is the P/N from NAPA? NHF 85405
How has it been running since... 9 years ago when this video was made? lol. I just got my M923a2 and have been binging a lot of your videos. I found the air filter was last changed Sep-1st 2009, so that made me thing "time to reset everything back to zero so I know what's in my truck"
Nelson.... have you ever had any issues with the transmission temperature running hot ? I have a 85' AM General 5 ton with the 5 speed Allison and my temp guage is running between 240/270...... I just changed the transmission fluid and inner filter and pan gasket, also installed a new temp sensor and new guage and it's still running hot ? What are your numbers ??! Thanks,Tom
is it an MT 650, or an HT 750. or is an MD or HD model? If it's MT or HT, 30 weight was sufficient, especially in hot weather. If I recall, it will take about four services to get all the old fluid purged. If it's a 653 or 753, they tend o shift hard when down shifting. Military nomenclature could be a little different too.
Sounds good. I know it's like comparing apples to oranges but, I changed out the transmission fluid in my mazda to fully synthetic mercon and I notice a difference in shifting.
I think it is very comparable, they both run exactly the same way. Apples and bigger apples.
NelsonStudios Im not sure same way. In principle maybe. The valve body in the Tribute is way smaller and unfortunately has an internal, non serviceable filter. Oh and it's a P.O.S. lol although about 150k all original, I guess I can't complain...
It’s been 6 years - any regrets?
I dropped valve body on my 1991 M936A2.
Before I put new oil in, considering putting straight 10W vs OEM 10W40.
Switching to a proper transmission fluid is still the first thing I would do. Immediately improves how it drives.
@@acme663ryo , so, no issues running straight 10W?
Can you or did you do a video on the rear end differentials? I haven't checked mine yet. Thanks for all the great vids. Also a how to vid on the bare minimum greasing lube points and frequency would be nice.
To check the diffs, pull the side plug out with a 1/2 ratchet and stick your finger down in the hole. Drain from the bottom. As for the greasing I think most of these trucks are over greased if that is possible. Don't forget the top and bottom kingpin fittings on the front axle, the steering shaft top and bottom (you will have to remove that cover), that little stubby drive line in the front and the bogie pivot bearing on the bottom between the two rear axles on each side. The rest grease twice a year or every couple thousand miles. Or if you sink it in the mud, grease it all after you get it out and hosed off.
NelsonStudios thats why i hate autos man i i only drive old style manuals with 80-90 gear oil
Wow I used to live there next to air port in a different trailer... But transmission I would think should be smoother with atf
Interesting Indeed
I have two M925A2 trucks with the Allison. Is there any update on this video? I have motor oil in mine and will be changing the fluid in the spring. I just wanted to know if this is still working out for you. Thanks and please keep the 5 ton videos coming. They have been a HUGE help for me!
I have never bothered to do a full flush just drain what is in the transmission and be done with it. Alison recommend a full sync oil. This is what is in mine. 10,000+ miles now no issues. Still highly recommend.
@@acme663ryo Do you have an email address I could reach you at? I have a lot of 5 ton questions. Thanks again!
Sure Google NelsonStudios LLC and you can find our tour page, email is located on our 'Contact us' bottom right.
OK so now how do you compare was it worth the switch???
Hi Nelson. Did this fluid work good for you?
Yes. I recommend. There is more expensive stuff that might work better but that stuff still worked great for me.
@@acme663ryo Thanks man, was in a situation and found no fluid on dip stick and saw your tube from many moons ago.
@@bobmacfly1207 it's a big transmission so probably not an issue for you. You can always top up with atf dex III or better if you get in a bind.
Wow your engine sounds great! I have got an M814 and she doesn't sound nearly that healthy.
Nelson, I LOVE your videos. They are GREAT and I have learned allot about working on and maintaining my truck. These trucks do have allot of similarities to commercial trucks, But there are quite a few things that are specific To them. I have a question for you all... I bought an "83" m923 about a year ago. This truck is just SSOOO MUCH FUN to drive. But, I don't understand why there seems to be so much engine failure with these trucks at mileage below 50,000 miles. I have driven trucks since I was 18 and they should get damn near 500,000 before they have any real problems. Is it just a lack of proper maintenance? Or is there some other reason. Mine has the Allison Trans and it has the original 1100x20 no-directional tires. I want to keep this truck as original as possible. I AM trying to figure out how to convert the 24 volt to 12 volt for a cigarette lighter and to put a radio in it... Any suggestions?:~)
+DESPRADO111 I have wondered that myself, especially since I have now blown one. People talk about the 855 with reverence, how it is unkillable and yet everyone seems to have a story.
Are you still happy with the trans oil you switched to?
+brian peters I haven't had any issues with it so far in about 10,000 miles.
Is the transmission still shifting smoothly????
With the switch to actual transmission fluid not 30w motor oil it shifts much better but I don't think any of them shift without ringing the drivelines once in a while. The downshift can really crash and bang sometimes.
Yes that is my question???
NelsonStudios thank you for the response
I too recently performed the conversion from 10w motor oil to TranSynd Allison Trans fluid. Major improvement to overall transmission performance. Best upgrade to my M923A2 so far. Upshifts and downshifts noticeably improved. Thank You Nelson for taking the time to share your efforts with the community. -V
You are draining the trans fluid but isn't that the OIL filter above the right tire you changed.??, Thanks Fred Houston, Texas. I have a 1985 M923a1..
That's the transmission oil filter, it has another inside the transmission. My engine oil filter is a canister type on the driver's side of the block.
Right thanks. Still getting to know my M923A1.
fredboat
I hope you have a great time with it. You can get all the manuals and stuff as free downloads over on steelsoldiers. They are a pita to navigate but beats buying them.
What is your top speed with this 923?
+urgentcareguy3 I have a "83" M923. The top speed I get with the peddle to the floorboard while running down the freeway is 57 MPH. I still have the 1100 x20's on it. With the Allison Trans.
You might check into Amsoil pure synthetic for all of your fluids..
+npsit1 Amsoil is good stuff but the expense... You noticed it was 4 gallons he replaced right?
+Lantern Lab to do a flush on a ford trans it take 18-20 quarts (this is a full flush converter and all). I only use Royal Purple Oils and at $13 a quart for Max ATF it aint cheap lol.
+Lantern Lab And, don't forget, if you change over to full synthetic. You will HAVE to change the oil in the torque converter too... That means you are probably looking at around 8 to 10 gallons all together.
+DESPRADO111 Yeah, I know. I said it was expensive didn't I? You're agreeing with me...
+Lantern Lab Absolutely...
you took a chance with expensive truck based on what some pimps told you
+reesysleather For the record it is also what Kenworth and Allison told me. Actually they told me to use the new synthetic but said this would be fine.
+NelsonStudios I think you are correct. What ever Allision says go with it...d:)
yes of course and don't blame your mom, not her fault she had a butt baby
reesysleather
Awesome. Real quality comment there. *clap*
is that your boyfriend talking butt boy?
hi there. have you ever had a squeal bet and seem to between 3rd and 4th? I too use the same oil.
Sometimes I got a growl/rattle in 3/4/5 when coasting downhill. For an under floor rattle or squeak grab a light and inspection mirror and make sure that hoses or brackets are not touching the bottom of the cab. I read someplace where a guy had the rear cab mount in upside down and it caused all sorts of strange noises. If no luck try greasing all drive lines and front axle spring perches. Take the weight off the axle by lifting on the front crossmember with some blocking, get the spring and shackles to unload from truck weight if you can. Also put a wrench on ALL of the bolts that hold the spring mounts to the frame. Make sure they are tight, mine were loose. If that doesn't fix it shoot me a line back and I will think of other stuff.