First, it is too bad we have to conjecture about what was posted by Art.
Secondly, it is predictable that a dealer would tout the oils that provide them the most profit. Horror stories just contribute to the sales tactic.
Finally, any oil of decent quality will do the job and do it well. It is especially valid if oil changes are frequent - like each filter change.
If you don't mind spending a little extra then, by all means, go for the best money can buy. What we are discussing here is "bang for the buck" and there are non-Kubota lubricants out there that will do what is necessary.
Sorry but my wife and I went to dinner last nite so it cut into my computer time especially when she has company over after to watch dancing with the stars, duh. I guess you know now I can't dance!
Tractors are not like cars, or are they like trucks! Yes they all may have diesel engines but what RPM of their performance are they run at? Cars run at about 1/4 of there max RPM and trucks maybe at 1/3 of there maxed RPM and load but think about your diesel tractor!
When you go out mowing with your tractor what RPM are you running at? What type of load? You certainly aren't mowing at 1500 rpm are you?
Tractor manufacturers know this and many of them do not just rebadge an oil and call it special although some have done just that! I can understand peoples hesitation to believe not to believe in all!
One of my favorite engine oils is the CASE-IH, for the diesels they ran it for three thousand hours full throttle full load on the same oil!!! Many of the other comapnies spec's in the generic oil companies don't have the spec's to do that or even come close because they build blends that are the same for both gas and diesels and that is definitely a short life oil for both!!!! Change your fluids more often!!!!
I do know that Shell does have some oils that are better for diesels then there automotive and truck oils, I could not find it on there web site quickly so I'll tell you what I look for. The normal Rotella is not that great of a spec oil although probably one of the most popular.
Your TBN should be between 11 and 12. Minimum of 10 less is gas engine territory
Your sulfated ash level definitely over 1 if not up to 1.5 to 2, gas engines don't like but .5 ash.
From time to time we have swapped lower spec oils out of tractors and also seen the oil use lower or go away. Even with tractor trailers as well as improved mileage on long haul units.
In hydraulic oil I saw where someone stated on another post that you "don't" want a hydraulic fluid that will absorb moisture. While they don't live in central NY and I DO want it to absorb moisture so that when it's ten degree's below Zero and water is definitely froze and the water has turned to ice that the hydraulic pick-up line is laying in the bottom of the transmission while I start the tractor!
Now this one will really make you think! Naturally the more you buy the lower the price normally, just think of the big box stores and there purchasing power, now think of your local dealer and how much he might be able to buy compared to all the wally worlds and stores of those types.
You might find it hard to believe but those big box stores make a better margin on the oil then your local dealer might be making. I know for us it is a loss leader and from the other dealers I have talked to they also work on low margins with the oils from the tractor manufacturers.
I'm not a buyer so to speak, I like to buy once and keep it till when ever! The best way to do that is with buying quality and advanced product once, then keeping it in the best shape possible. I've already bought to many things that supposedly were a savings and I just can't afford any more!
Good care is cheap!
