what oil to use Rhino 324

[whynot162]

sso I was checking the tractor today, found the oil to be milky in the transmission,
So I thought it is time to change it all. But what do I use? Manual says n100 lubricatiog oil for hydraulic systems, does that mean to use hydraulic oil in the tran, 4wd unit, and the lift system? That just seems wrong. I was thinking gear oil, 80-90 but now I think that may be too heavy. Engine oil? I have no idea. I have never had to add oil to the tractor, and only use it 2-4 times a year...
Thanks
Doug

 

[Bob Rooks]

It would really help a LOT if you parked it under cover of some sort. That way rain water wouldn't find it's way into the transmission, and you would never have to change the oil.

 

[whynot162]

It gets covered with a tarp. I have not had an issue until this year, so maybe the tarp is not good enough. Still do not know what oil to put in the trans, or the front 4X4. I think I will try the universal hydraulic and trans oil, just use that everywhere. unless anyone see an issue with that.

 

[greg_g]

Unless you keep it in a climate controlled area, you're not going to avoid eventually getting wet oil. Parked in the open - whether under a tarp or not - subjects all lubricated equipment to condensation. The hot/cold/hot cycling from day/night/day creates condensation inside of the metal housings.

N100 is the Chinese version of AW100, which has a viscosity equivalence to 30W engine oil. Too thick for hydraulics if you plan to use it in Washington winters. So is UTF. In a geared tractor, UTF is basically too thin for the gear boxes and too thick for the hydraulics (in the cold). But 80W90 belongs in the gear boxes only; tranny/transfer case/differentials (front and rear). The hydraulics should get AW32 if you plan to run it year round, AW46 if you're a three season guy.

//greg//

 

[whynot162]

Thanks so much. 80-90 everywhere except the hydraulics. And aw32 for the hydraulics. I do occasionally have to move a little snow...

Is there anything that I need to do to flush the system, or just drain really well and fill? I am leaning towards a drain and fill and change it again, next spring?

 

[greg_g]

If it came out yellow and foamy, you still have the same stuff clinging to the sides of the housings above the oil line. Unless you flush it out, it will quickly mix into your fresh lubricants. I recommend kerosene. A diesel flush is cheaper, but residual kerosene will evaporate faster after you refill with fresh lubricants. Drain the old crap and refill everything with kerosene; gear boxes and hydraulics. Wash the inside of the housings by driving over rough ground, uphill and down. Exercise the hydraulics to get kero through the lines and cylinders. Drain through fine screen or cheese cloth to catch any big chunks that come out. That way you can re-use the kero should you decide a second flush is necessary. When satisfied, refill appropriately with 80W90 and AW32

//greg//

 

[whynot162]

ok, I will do that. You guys are always a great help!
Thanks

 

[sd455dan]

sso I was checking the tractor today, found the oil to be milky in the transmission,
So I thought it is time to change it all. But what do I use? Manual says n100 lubricatiog oil for hydraulic systems, does that mean to use hydraulic oil in the tran, 4wd unit, and the lift system? That just seems wrong. I was thinking gear oil, 80-90 but now I think that may be too heavy. Engine oil? I have no idea. I have never had to add oil to the tractor, and only use it 2-4 times a year...
Thanks
Doug

I agree with everything said about the oils mentioned

Unless your Rhino is like mine
and actually shares transmission, differential and transfer box oil with the hydraulic system.
mine has a label recommending john Deere 303 but it has proven to be to thick in Idaho winters - so i have been running Universal tractor Hydraulic oil (10-20 weight) in it for years seems to be the best compromise for me.

If your tractor has separate reservoirs for the hydraulic system/ drive train by all means run different fluids.

 

[whynot162]

mine does have different for the hydraulics and the drive train.
I can not see how to add oil to the little 4X4 housing, I am thinking it just comes in fronm the transmission but I do not know how? so I have not dared to drain it. I can not see a plug on it to fill it.

 

[greg_g]

In many cases, there will be a spill port that permits gear oil to flow from tranny to transfer case. But they sometimes clog. To be on the safe side - and to learn more about your tractor - I recommend, you should the transfer case cover plate and perform a visual. Be prepared to cut a new cover gasket though, good chances the old one will be rotten.

//greg//