Oil & Fuel Motor Oil as the Hydraulic Oil in Power Trac

Bob999 · May 14, 2007

In light of the discussion in this thread and others I want to raise a question about additives. I know that there are a number of manufacturers of additives designed specifically for hydraulic fluid. One in particular is a Case branded product that is specified for use in some Case hydraulic systems that use motor oil as the hydraulic fluid. My understanding is that one of the principle ingredients in hydraulic fluid additives is zinc.

My understanding--please correct me if I am wrong-- is that motor oil is available with multiviscosity ratings that are broader than those available in UTF. For example motor oils are widely available with a 10 or 15W-40 rating while multiviscosity UTF fluids are typically 10W-20 or 10W-30.

So my question is whether you can get the best of both worlds--the wide viscosity rating of motor oil and the desirable additives available in UTF by buying motor oil and using an additive? If additives are a good idea when using motor oil what are the preferred brands?

KentT · May 14, 2007

Bob999 said:
My understanding--please correct me if I am wrong-- is that motor oil is available with multiviscosity ratings that are broader than those available in UTF. For example motor oils are widely available with a 10 or 15W-40 rating while multiviscosity UTF fluids are typically 10W-20 or 10W-30.

Bob, that's my understanding about viscosity ratings also...

Personally, rather than concerning myself too much with the anti-wear additives, I think the single best thing you could do is plan on simply changing the oil more frequently -- especially given the lack of a full-time, full-flow filtering capability on the Power Tracs.

As we're all likely aware, while synthetics have extended service intervals for example, most everyone would agree that changing your engine oil and filter frequently is the best thing you can do to extend the life of your engine...

My two cents...

Bob999 · May 14, 2007

KentT said:
Personally, rather than concerning myself too much with the anti-wear additives, I think the single best thing you could do is plan on simply changing the oil more frequently -- especially given the lack of a full-time, full-flow filtering capability on the Power Tracs.

I recently installed a filter on the return line on my mower. Since the majority of hours on my tractor come from mowing I now at least approach full flow filtering. With the 1845 the tank is 20 gallons so even with motor oil it is a significant expense to change the oil as well as a significant disposal issue.

Thus my interest in additives if they are beneficial.

MossRoad · May 14, 2007

Bob999 said:
I recently installed a filter on the return line on my mower. Since the majority of hours on my tractor come from mowing I now at least approach full flow filtering. With the 1845 the tank is 20 gallons so even with motor oil it is a significant expense to change the oil as well as a significant disposal issue.

Thus my interest in additives if they are beneficial.

I'd like to see that setup, if possible. Any pictures?

woodlandfarms · May 14, 2007

I second wanting to see pictures...

BobRip · May 14, 2007

woodlandfarms said:
I second wanting to see pictures...

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Add a parts list to. Sounds real good.

kmaz · May 14, 2007

Hey bob999, in case you missed the last three posts...how bout some pictures.
Kris

cqaigy2 · May 15, 2007

not to belabor the point.

Bob999 · May 15, 2007

BobRip said:
\

Add a parts list to. Sounds real good.

Sorry--no pictures. In any event I am not using a PT mower so the specific mounting and parts probably do not apply to PT mowers.

The installation is simple--I fabricated a bracket to attach the filter to the frame on the mower. Parts needed were the filter, a length of hose to connect from the return port on the motor to the inlet port on the filter, and adapter fittings. I used the existing return line from the return port on the filter.

I used this filter:

Surplus Center Item Detail

I chose it over the less expensive Parker filters because it has bypass valve that allows the use of low pressure filter elements and a differential pressure indicator for filter replacement.

I chose a high pressure filter housing because the quick connect fittings between the filter and the tank can create some back pressure and I was unwilling to risk rupturing a filter housing.