Universal trans/Hyd fluid in Back Hoe

[Dataway]

Just wondering what symptoms, if any, would be exhibited if I put a universal trans/hyd fluid in a 1995(ish) Woods backhoe tank instead of proper hydraulic fluid?

The trans fluid is thinner correct? Or is it the other way around? I know there is some considerable difference in viscosity anyway. I ask because of course I did this and in retrospect noticed much later that the hoe seemed down on power and a bit more erratic in it's movements. I've read in a few places that straight hydraulic fluid should only be used in hydraulic systems that don't include hydrostatic drive, and combination fluid should not be used in hydraulic only systems.

Thanks,

 

[ericm979]

ISO 32 is lower viscosity than tractor fluid. 32 centistokes @ 40 degrees C vs 55 (for Mobilfluid 424 which I picked as an example because that's what I use). ISO 46 is 46 centistokes @ 40C. Tractor fluid viscosity can vary. You don't need the tractor specific additives for a straight hydraulic system.

The manufacturer should have a recommendation.

 

[nyone]

Does it share the hudraulics with your tractor, rear remote hookup? What type of transmission/brakes does your tractor have?

In general hydraulic pumps and cylinders dont really care what grade hydraulic oil. Wet clutches and wet brakes do

 

[RNeumann]

Does it share the hudraulics with your tractor, rear remote hookup? What type of transmission/brakes does your tractor have?

In general hydraulic pumps and cylinders dont really care what grade hydraulic oil. Wet clutches and wet brakes do

This is my thought. If you are only buying one bulk oil for everything just go with the THF.

 

[Dave M7040]

Looked on the Woods web site.

This is a link to a downloadable manual for a small backhoe
https://www.woodsequipment.com/files/Products/Manuals/MAN1049.pdf

This is what the manual says on oils for units with their own pump and reservoir:

Recommended Oils and Temperature Ranges
Do not mix oil grades or types
SAE Hydraulic Transmission Fluid. . . . . . . . All Temperatures
Type “A” or “F” ATF . . . . . . . All Temperatures
SAE 30-30W . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90° F and above
SAE 20-20W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35° - 90° F
SAE 10-10W . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35° F and below

In short, use an good automotive automatic or power steering fluid.
Don't mix fluids.
Change oil and filter after first 20 hours of operation and then every 200 hours of operation or annually, whichever occurs first.
System capacity is approximately4-1/2 to 5 U.S. gallons

Dave M7040

 

[nyone]

Sae 20w transfers to iso 68.

Does this share hydraulic fluid with your tractor? If so use what the tractor says u should not the backhoe

 

[Dataway]

It's a frame mount hoe with it's own pump and reservoir. Which right now probably has Tractor Supply premium Trans/Hyd fluid in it.

I know it's never had what I would identify as auto-trans fluid in it ... meaning the red stuff that goes in automotive transmissions. When I bought it (from a dealer), already installed on a 1715 it had typical clear hydraulic fluid in it.
I wasn't aware that ATF came in different viscosity.

This spring it's time to change all the fluid and filter so I'm looking to put the right thing in it this time. The 20-20 would be perfect 90% of the time I use it.

 

[Oldoak]

With it's own fluid reservoir and pump, you can use regular hydraulic fluid or trans/Hyd fluid. Either is fine, but you are paying a little extra for trans/Hyd fluid which additives which are not needed.

You can not use regular transmission fluid in a hydrostatic or mechancial transmission. It must be trans/Hyd fluid.

I doubt the trans/Hyd fluid you are currently using is thinner unless it was specifically labeled low viscosity.

 

[Dataway]

Well, finished flushing ... first load came out like a milkshake, second came out like skim milk, now has another fresh 3 gallons in it and a second new filter. No more whining noises going up hills, no more losing power when it gets hot, feeling like new again. Will change it all out with a new filter again before winter. Used Tractor Supply premium combination hyd/trans oil.

 

[nyone]

Why would you get wining noises going up hill on a backhoe with its own pump?