Yes I searched, and yes I know GM doesn't recommend periodic changes of the gear lube. KTHNX.

Anyhow, I plan to change out the lube, not because of potential deterioration of the oil (most of the synthetic lubes in transmissions last virtually forever) but rather to extricate all the metal that accumulates in the first few thousand miles. You should have seen the ATF in my Tremec T56 6 speed after 3000 miles. It looked like burgundy metallic paint.

There is a wonderful writeup with pics for the Getrag unit on the regular HHR, but I've seen nothing for the Saab unit used in the SS. Any pics or snippets from S.I. would be greatly appreciated.

Also, if anyone has the GM part number for the oil, that would be great.

 

Changing oil is not needed. I am not sure what you found in your Tremec but it is a real non issue unless you are going with to a Synthetic or you really have thrashed it for some reason.

 

Drop these guys a line...I emailed them about a GM equivalent for my F40 six-speed, they got back to me right away!

http://www.royalpurple.com/

 

redline and amsoil are far better than the manufacturer would use, IMHO that would be my choice, amsoil has many test results posted , dave mann at performanceoiltechnology.com rocks mucho info

 

Service Information
2008 Chevrolet HHR | HHR (VIN A) Service Manual | Document ID: 1386854
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Transmission Fluid Replacement

Important:

• The manual transaxle is filled with fluid at the manufacturer and requires no routine oil changes. If it is determined that the fluid needs to be changed due to contamination or a similar issue, follow this procedure.

• To ensure that all sediment within the transaxle is suspended in the fluid, the fluid should only be drained after it has reached a normal operating temperature of 88-93°C (190-200°F). Normal operating temperature is reached after approximately 25 km (15 miles) of highway driving.


Position vehicle on hoist and raise vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
Caution: The transmission fluid is hot. Caution must be taken to prevent personal injury when the transmission fluid drains from the transmission.

Remove the transaxle drain plug (1).
Remove the transaxle level plug (2).
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

Clean and apply thread sealant P/N 21485278 to the drain plug (1) and install.
Tighten
Tighten the transaxle drain plug to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

Using a funnel with a flexible spout or a quart bottle hand pump, add manual transaxle lubricant through the level plug (2) opening until fluid flows out.
Lubricant - GM P/N 88862472, (Canadian P/N 88862473) 1.6-2.0 quarts

Clean and apply thread sealant P/N 21485278 to the level plug (2) and install.
Tighten
Tighten the transaxle level plug to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

 

Thanks, Chevy Mgr. This is exactly what I needed. You're the best. Have a great Thanksgiving holiday!