A very dumb, stupid, possibly moronic question....

[Fifi1981]

I have a five speed manual in my 1981 Spider. What is the proper lubrication policy/procedure? I have driven automatics all my life, and I am under the impression that one does not add fluid to a manual like you do an auto. (please be gentle as I am not the most mechanically inclined person there is) I just need to clear my conscience to make sure I am not being a complete fool thinking this way and possibly doing damage.

Thanks, and be gentle!

[rlux4]

Fifi's owner, you know what they say, the only stupid questions are the ones we don't ask.
The recommended interval for changing your gear lube in the tranny is 30,000 miles. Just as important is what type of lube you use. If you're not aware, there have been many discussions about this. Fiat recommends GL1 rated 90W. This is almost impossible to find locally for most people. Do a topic search and you'll get a good education on the subject. There are synthetics that meet the GL1 rating. A lot of owners order pure GL1 from the usual vendors. You should change the lube in the rear end at the same time, you can use normal 90w (which can have an EP rating).
Ron

[So Cal Mark]

you can use a 40w synthetic motor oil in the tranny. It's checked and filled from a plug on the right side of the tranny case. It has to be done from underneath the car. I'd suggest you have it checked, it's not uncommon to find them with slight leaks. Running it dry will ruin the bearings quickly and that will turn into a $1500-2000 repair