What type of Fluid to use in a home built Log splitter??

Scotty Dive · Nov 12, 2012

First - everything is working just fine!

But its time to change the fluid in my splitter. I am using a 10 HP Tecumseh HH100 engine to turn a Haldex 2 stage pump . When I first built it I could not find any documentation on what fluid to run in it and so I used Dextron 3 ATF. A quick google search this monring and I didn't see any info on what I should use.

I am wondering is there a better fluid to use? I usually have plenty of UTF (JD 303) lying around that I could use and it would save me a few bucks doing so but really just want to know what the system/pump likes best

So what fluid should I be using????

RandyT · Nov 12, 2012

Our Iron and Oak log splitter calls for dextron 3 below 30 degrees. It also has a haldex pump.

glastron23 · Nov 12, 2012

Hi Scotty.. it all depends on when you are using the splitter, in the hot summer you can use a iso 64 oil but don't try to use it in the winter at -15F, thats then the Dextron is good. we use 6 types of oil in our equipment, ranging from iso32 to dextron to Univis J13 to arctic blue to 5-30 motor oil. In the splitters i build i use 5-30 oil, cheap/easy to get and you don't need 2 types for 1 machine.
If you have lots of UTF that would also, for the big picture, as long as it's clean and full thats what's the important thing..Jim

J_J · Nov 12, 2012

Here is some fluid that Haldex recommends.

http://www.rs-hydrauliek.nl/tandwieleenheden/PumpserieWP09_.pdf

Page 3 right side, middle.

Excerpt:

Any ATF can be used. A full synthetic or synthetic blend works best
such as Dexron II, Dexron III or Mercon 5

I use one of their hyd pumps for my loader and steering, and use 10W-40 motor oil.