Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement (2024)

Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

#1

Alan57

Member
Joined
Sep 14, 2020
Messages
32
Location
South West Missouri
Tractor
LS MT345E

    After replacing the hydraulic filter for the 50hr service I lost a little fluid, mostly from what was in the old filter. Now the manual gives specs for type of fluid to use but I’m not seeing these specs on any of the hydraulic fluid containers. Stopped by a LS dealer today and all they had was some universal hydraulic fluid with no specs and the parts man didn’t know if it was the correct fluid for my tractor. Went to an Oreilly auto store and they only had AW 32 and AW 46 hydraulic fluid in gallons. Looking for recommendations when I only need a gallon of fluid for topping off. Would also be interested in knowing what others are using for hydraulic fluid when they do there first fluid change.

    Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

    #2

    Doofy

    Elite Member
    Joined
    Aug 16, 2017
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    4,285
    Location
    Alaska
    Tractor
    LS XR 3135HC

      This is what my LS dealer uses and recommended:

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      Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

      #3

      dlctcg

      Platinum Member
      Joined
      Jun 29, 2009
      Messages
      758
      Location
      CT
      Tractor
      New Holland TC40D, Lull 400, IR SP-48 Roller

        If your LS manual is listing a spec of API GL4 ISO VG 46/68 LSTH570 then I'm 99% sure you can use.... Traveller Premium Universal Tractor Trans/Hydraulic Fluid from Tractor Supply...

        Also the NAPA 85401 suggested above... ^^^ by Doofy...

        Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

        • Thread Starter

        #4

        OP

        Alan57

        Member
        Joined
        Sep 14, 2020
        Messages
        32
        Location
        South West Missouri
        Tractor
        LS MT345E

          dlctcg said:

          If your LS manual is listing a spec of API GL4 ISO VG 46/68 LSTH570 then I'm 99% sure you can use.... Traveller Premium Universal Tractor Trans/Hydraulic Fluid from Tractor Supply...

          Also the NAPA 85401 suggested above... ^^^ by Doofy...

          Manual recommends API GL4 ISO VG 32/46 LSTH400G

          Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

          #5

          Avenger

          Veteran Member
          Joined
          May 16, 2018
          Messages
          1,481
          Location
          North Idaho
          Tractor
          LS XR4145C

            Pretty much any hydraulic fluid that says its for a transaxle, HST, or transmission, will be just fine.

            Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

            #7

            PCABE5

            Platinum Member
            Joined
            Oct 31, 2007
            Messages
            812
            Location
            Wisconsin
            Tractor
            John Deere 4066R Cab and loader

              The Mobil recommendation is in-between ISO 46/68 and the Shell recommendation is closest to ISO 68.

              The only ISO 32 fluids that I know of are Kubota super udt 2 and John Deere low viscosity.

              Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

              #8

              Cycledude

              Veteran Member
              Joined
              Nov 26, 2020
              Messages
              1,176
              Location
              Rib Lake Wisconsin
              Tractor
              LS XR4155, Ford 6610, Ford 8n

                Alan57 said:

                After replacing the hydraulic filter for the 50hr service I lost a little fluid, mostly from what was in the old filter. Now the manual gives specs for type of fluid to use but I’m not seeing these specs on any of the hydraulic fluid containers. Stopped by a LS dealer today and all they had was some universal hydraulic fluid with no specs and the parts man didn’t know if it was the correct fluid for my tractor. Went to an Oreilly auto store and they only had AW 32 and AW 46 hydraulic fluid in gallons. Looking for recommendations when I only need a gallon of fluid for topping off. Would also be interested in knowing what others are using for hydraulic fluid when they do there first fluid change.

                Where do you live or plan on operating the tractor ? If your planning to operate in extreme cold weather I would probably choose the lighter oil. Fleet Farm stores sell it in 5 gallon containers for about $36 , there’s supposed to be a Tractor Supply store opening here this fall So I might wait to see what they will be charging.

                Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

                #9

                Bearsixty7

                Veteran Member
                Joined
                Jun 10, 2015
                Messages
                1,356
                Location
                St. Paul TX
                Tractor
                LS MT240HE. JD LA145.

                  PCABE5 said:

                  The Mobil recommendation is in-between ISO 46/68 and the Shell recommendation is closest to ISO 68.

                  The only ISO 32 fluids that I know of are Kubota super udt 2 and John Deere low viscosity.

                  Where are you getting this information from?

                  Only thing I could match up was the GL4 requirement. The Shell lists it as GL4, the Travellers doesn't list it.

                  Jul 19, 2021 / Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement

                  #10

                  PCABE5

                  Platinum Member
                  Joined
                  Oct 31, 2007
                  Messages
                  812
                  Location
                  Wisconsin
                  Tractor
                  John Deere 4066R Cab and loader

                    Bearsixty7 said:

                    Where are you getting this information from?

                    Only thing I could match up was the GL4 requirement. The Shell lists it as GL4, the Travellers doesn't list it.

                    The product data sheets. The 40°C viscosity in particular.

                    Hydraulic fluid for topping off and for replacement (2024)

                    FAQs

                    What can you use as a replacement for hydraulic fluid? ›

                    Automatic transmission fluid: Automatic transmission fluids are among the most popular hydraulic fluid substitutes because they have an extensive operating temperature range and can maintain optimal performance in diverse environments. Vegetable seed oils: Most vegetable oils have higher flash and fire points.

                    Can you mix AW 32 and AW 46 hydraulic fluid? ›

                    Lucas Oil's AW-32 and AW-46 have the same additives, so there is no problem mixing the two together if you want an oil with a weight higher than 10 but lower than 20, or if you are beginning a system change.

                    Can you top up hydraulic fluid? ›

                    Topping up the hydraulic reservoir is a vital piece of routine maintenance, because – if it is not done correctly – the ramifications are severe. A sure sign of a leaking system is one that requires make-up fluid regularly.

                    How do I know if my hydraulic oil needs replacing? ›

                    Looking at the hydraulic fluid is the simplest way to determine if it may be contaminated. Clean fluid is almost clear to amber in color. A milky, dark, or otherwise abnormal color may indicate the presence of one or more contaminants.

                    Can you use ATF in place of hydraulic fluid? ›

                    Most hydraulic systems will operate satisfactorily using a variety of fluids. These include engine oil, automatic transmission fluid and oil formulated specifically for the hydraulic compartment.

                    Does it matter what hydraulic fluid you use? ›

                    It is a key factor in a hydraulic system's performance, impacting how power is transmitted, lubrication, and heat dissipation. Selecting the right viscosity of hydraulic oil is essential for effective operation, helping to prevent leakage and reducing the risk of component wear.

                    What happens if you use the wrong hydraulic fluid? ›

                    It's essential to use hydraulic fluid with the right viscosity, to avoid high operating temperatures or increased friction that can cause damage to the system and potentially premature failure. The wrong oil can also cause increased power usage, both diesel, and electric, at the expense of your business.

                    Is it acceptable to mix any kind of hydraulic fluid? ›

                    Therefore, the mixing of hydraulic oils with differing water separation characteristics may cause a reduction in emulsification characteristics or eliminate these characteristics altogether, thereby causing undesirable operating conditions.

                    What is the difference between red and clear hydraulic fluid? ›

                    Clear fluid (our CW8) improves gauge life by assisting in reducing rig vibrations and corrosion from harsh industry conditions. Red fluid, also known as red hydraulic fluid (CW-15), is used in pressure, torque and weight systems to transmit readings between a gauge and its sensor.

                    Is it OK to mix different hydraulic fluids? ›

                    CAN I MIX HYDRAULIC FLUIDS? As far as possible, it is always best to avoid mixing different hydraulic fluids. This is because the technical properties could be spoiled by chemical reactions between different additives.

                    What fluid is best for hydraulics? ›

                    As a best practice, opt for mineral, mono-grade hydraulic oil blended with a zinc-based anti-wear additive. In case your application requires a multigrade oil, look for a fluid that contains additives that specifically improve the oil's shear stability.

                    Which fluid Cannot be used in hydraulic systems? ›

                    Water is not used in fluid power system because it corrodes, encourages growth of bacteria, easily evaporates and gets contaminated easily, has poor lubricity, viscosity and prone to more leakage.

                    What will ruin a hydraulic system? ›

                    Air and water contamination are the leading causes of hydraulic failure, accounting for 80 to 90% of hydraulic failures. Faulty pumps, system breaches or temperature issues often cause both types of contamination.

                    What is the lifespan of hydraulic oil? ›

                    As a general rule, hydraulic oil should be changed every 2,000 to 3,000 hours of use, depending on the operating conditions and the manufacturer's recommendations. Here are some reasons why that is so: Contamination: Dirt, water, and other contaminants can build up in the oil and can cause wear and tear on components.

                    Can you use motor oil to replace hydraulic fluid? ›

                    The short answer is no, users should not use engine oil to replace hydraulic, as these are two very different kinds of lubricants – each designed for a specific role and possessing different chemical compositions.

                    What other liquid can be used in a hydraulic? ›

                    Three common varieties of hydraulic fluids found on the market today are petroleum-based, water-based and synthetics. Petroleum-based or mineral-based fluids are the most widely used fluids today.

                    What is the same as hydraulic oil? ›

                    In summary, hydraulic oil is a type of hydraulic fluid. However, unlike hydraulic oils, hydraulic fluids are used in automatic transmissions and are an alternative to hydraulic oil when flammability is a potential issue involved in operating environments.

                    Can you use any fluid in a hydraulic system? ›

                    Depending on the system, you might want a water-based or a petroleum-based fluid; it can be natural/bio or synthetic; some specialized types are even flame-retardant! Agricultural machinery may often use biodegradable hydraulic fluid, while heavy equipment tends to use synthetic, petroleum-based products.

                    Can you use vegetable oil instead of hydraulic oil? ›

                    Due to the high lubricity of vegetable oil, it is not recommended for use in applications where hydraulic systems supply oil to wet brakes or clutches on mobile equipment. This could limit its use in some excavators, loaders, and crawler-tractors.

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