An old article by Hugh Kleinpeter when he was head of ZF-America in the late '70s, recommended spraying an engine cleaner on a ZF still warm or hot from a run, then hosing it off according to the cleaner directions. ZF's reasoning was, dirt, crud & oil films insulate the cases, making the gearbox and clutch run a bit hotter to the detriment of its lubrication. The complete article is in the Aug. POCA Newsletter.
That prohibition also goes for polishing or plating which reduces surface area for heat radiation, and coating the cases with anything (which does the same). But it only becomes significant if you drive the car near to its capabilities.
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