The present invention relates to a process for preparing zeolites using quaternary ammonium cations having the following formula as structure directing agents: ##STR1## wherein: X is --H, methyl, --F, --Cl, --F and --Cl, or methoxy; R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are each methyl or ethyl; R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 together are --(CH.sub.2).sub.x -- where x is 2, 3, 4, or 5; or R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 together are methylated or dimethylated --(CH.sub.2).sub.y -- where y is 3, 4, or 5; and R.sub.3, R.sub.4 and R.sub.5 are each methyl or ethyl, or one of R.sub.3, R.sub.4 or R.sub.5 is methyl and the other two together are --(CH.sub.2).sub.z -- where z is 4, 5, 6 or 7;.