Modern hydraulic fluid in antique pump?

[lhfarm]

We have found a crankshaft driven hydraulic pump for our farm jeep 3pt hitch project. This is a new-old-stock (NOS) probably made in the early 50s. The instructions for the lift say to "fill tank with 5 quarts S.A.E. 10 motor oil." We have been operating the lift with a newer electric pump and have used generic farm store hydraulic fluid in it. The question is, other than being "authentic", is there any reason we shouldn't use modern fluid instead of motor oil?

Thanks,

 

[ToadHill]

In the 50"s they used non detergent motor oil and I don't know anyone with old cars that uses it anymore if it's even available. Lubrication products have improved greatly over the years and I can't think of any reason not to use the modern products.

 

[Soundguy]

Use a good hyd oil.. or a UTF oil.. should be fine.

I have antique tractors from the 40's up that am now using modern UTF oils in place of other oils that have been obsoleted over the years.. etc.

soundguy

 

[metalmeltr]

In the 50"s they used non detergent motor oil and I don't know anyone with old cars that uses it anymore if it's even available. Lubrication products have improved greatly over the years and I can't think of any reason not to use the modern products.

We got some ND at auto zne for our pressure wassher.