New PT-180 owner

BobRip · Sep 22, 2005

I did not realize that PT now recommends 15W40. When my tractor was built they used 5W30. So what they now install is better that what I originally had. I expect that the advantage for hot running will not be as great as I got since I changed from a 5w30 to a 20W50. It's probably still a good idea from a wear and protection point.

Bob Rip

Barryh · Sep 22, 2005

Actually in my book under Service Instructions it contradicts its self must be a misprint. Paragraph (2) it states to use only 5W30 motor oil. In paragraph (3) it states to use only 5W40 motor oil for the 50 hour change over.

I believe Terry told me to use the 5w30 in the winter, and then switch out to 15W40 in the summer. It does get pretty cold up here on the mountain. I Will have to research it more before I do the change over. Thanks for all of the input definitely something to think about. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

BobRip · Sep 22, 2005

I was told that you never really have to change the transmission oil, so you would not do a summer winter change. Four or five gallons is a lot of oil to change.

Bob Rip

Barryh · Sep 22, 2005

No you don’t have to change the oil at all unless it is discolored, just the filter at 50 hours. We were discussing changing from regular oil to the synthetic when I changed out the filter.

He suggested saving the 5W30 synthetic in plastic containers. Then changing back in the summer to the 15W40 and back again. I totally agree that is too expensive, and a lot of oil to buy. I think it is what a 10 gallon tank? I will go with one viscosity mix for all seasons.

J_J · Sep 22, 2005

I have also been considering a change to synthetic oil for various reasons. I don't think I need a multi weight, so I was thinking of a 30 or 40 weight, but at 10 or 11 gal, that is a few dollars. From talking to an Amsoil dealer, anyone can become an Amsoil dealer. I believe there is a certain amount that one has to purchase. You also have to drain and flush all your implements.

tracdoc · Sep 22, 2005

I don't know if the service requirements for the 180 are different from the 422/425. My manual says 10W40 and the label on my tank says 15W40. Be that as it may, you can certainly go down on the first number if your weather justifies it. But for warm weather and stress ops, me thinks you'll be happier with a 40 or higher viscosity.

I don't know if it's different on your unit, but the 422/425 PT specifies only a FILTER change at every 50 hr. The manual states </font><font color="blue" class="small">( Change the hydraulic oil only when it is discolored or contaminated with water or other foreign material. )</font>

The hydraulic reservoir tank oil does not need to be changed in any prescribed manner based on operational usage, only the filters at every 50 hr. Changing non-contaminated hydraulic oil is optional per owner. imho, I would select a good synthetic oil with a viscosity range that covers year-round usage, change it once and be done with it unless a contamination problem develops. In terms of timing, some on the forum recommend doing this at 100 hr, but timing is also optional on this.