Help- Did I put wrong Hy Gard in 870 trans?

MGADon · Aug 21, 2003

I am just finishing replacing the hydrulic fluid in my gear shift, synchro JD 870. I put in regular Hy Gard, but then noticed on the dipstick "use LOW VIS HY GARD". Checking the owners manual, a little more closely this time, it indeed calls for LOW VISCOSITY HY GARD. I'm resigned to draining and replacing with the right stuff. Is there a low viscosity flavor? Did I just make a 70 dollar mistake, or am I in bigger trouble because of non-compatibility? I have not yet started the tractor with the new fluid. Any advice is appreciated.
Don

F350Lawman · Aug 21, 2003

It says in my 790 book they are compatible so it won't hurt anything when/if you drain it. I think some model's books say you can use either fluid. I think you will get replies form others on this forum who have used the regular too.
with no harm

It's now wonder you are confused so are JD's books!

yellowsocks93 · Aug 21, 2003

They are fully compatible according to John Deere. Use regular if opperating in hot climates and low if you plan on using your equipment in winter. I always use low viscosity though.

Nick
990 4x4 turf, 272 RFM, 430 loader, 25A flail

MGADon · Aug 21, 2003

This is a relief. If I knew ahead of time, I would have gone with low viscosity. But for now, normal Hy Gard it is.

Don

Hambone · Aug 22, 2003

I would definately drain before it starts getting cold, unless you keep it in a heated garage and warm it up a bit before going out into the weather.

cowboydoc · Aug 22, 2003

I'm with Steve. We're alot closer to winter than to summer. That thing will howl like the wind in the winter for alot longer before you get it warmed up.

MGADon · Aug 22, 2003

I think I'll run the regular for a little while, cycle the loader, etc. Then drain and refill with low vis before the cold weather. I guess I can call it a thorough flush out for the 400 hour service.

yellowsocks93 · Aug 22, 2003

Good idea if your going to be using the tractor in the winter it never hurts to have the extra cold weather protection of the Low Vis oil.

Nick

MGADon · Aug 23, 2003

Nick,
Today I finished the 870 mid PTO install, including the regular Hy Guard fluid (oops). I'm real happy with the rest of the job.
I'm still looking for a used 72 inch mm.

yellowsocks93 · Aug 23, 2003

Does it work and look good like it came from the factory with a mid PTO. Just wondered. I bet your local JD dealer has a used deck laying around or you could always buy new and spend a lot of money! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif Just think of that nice clean mower your 870 would look like it just rolled of the showroom floor. Tomorrow I am going to try my loader for the first time on the 990. I had to switch the plumbing around so hopefully I won't have any leaks.

Nick
990 4x4 turf, 272 RFM, 430 loader, 25A flail