changing hydraulic oil

inthe country · Feb 10, 2017

I have a Kioti ck 3510 manual transmission with a loader and backhoe. I was planning to use a non OEM fluid when replacing my transmission fluid in the future. I have always been told not to mix different brands of fluid. With this in mind, how does one drain the fluid from the attachments? Does it matter? Thanks.

RjCorazza · Feb 11, 2017

I think the best you can do without significant work is to retract all cylinders before draining the fluid. If using compatible fluid I would not worry about it.

oosik · Feb 11, 2017

I agree. As long as the fluid is a compatible alternate. Look at your owners manual - it will tell you the grade and specification the hydraulic fluid must be.

AND - welcome to TBN and the forum.

Gary Fowler · Feb 11, 2017

Retracting the cylinders gets you the most fluid out but still has fluid behind the ram. I wouldn't worry too much about it, just get the recommended type of fluid to replace it and don't worry about it. I use the Universal hydraulic fluid from Triple S in all my tractors. It shows a long list of manufacturers that it is good for including Kubota UDT which is what my B26 calls for. I have no need for SUDT fluid here due to lack of cold during the winter. Lots of places sell a universal hydraulic fluid which is good for almost all if not all new CUT tractors.
Look for your tractors specs and get the one recommended for it because there is also some Universal Hydraulic fluid for older tractors that may be a bit too thick for the newer tractors.

inthe country · Feb 12, 2017

The owner's manual shows several different manufactures of fluid. If I understand your replies correctly, these would be "compatible" fluids and could be mixed with the residual factory fluid. I'm usually not this **** about things, but the owner's manual leaves a lot to be desired and this is the first new tractor I've ever had. Thanks for the replies.

oosik · Feb 12, 2017

I think we can all understand/appreciate your concern regarding using the correct fluids. If the owners manual recommends a type - you can be assured it is compatible. And you certainly aren't alone in your feeling regarding the owner's manual. You will find that "interpretation" is an art.