My splitter that normally starts on the 1st or 2nd pull didn’t start yesterday in single degree (F) temps. It was somewhat difficult to pull too so I’m assuming it’s the hydraulic fluid. Currently has AW46 in it. The totally capacity is 6.5 gallons, but the manual recommends filling it to no more than 5.
The manual suggests ATF in temps below freezing. I’m also assuming ATF would be okay in warmer temps as well. It’s my understanding that hydraulic fluid and ATF foam when mixed. Perhaps fill with a cheaper ATF, run it a bit, and then do another refill with say Maxlife? I plan on doing a filter change as well.
I figured Maxlife would be a good choice. Synthetic and relatively cheap per gallon. Plus, I always some on hand. I was entertaining full syn Kubota UDT2, but it looks like the Max is a tad thinner at colder temps.
The manual suggests ATF in temps below freezing. I’m also assuming ATF would be okay in warmer temps as well. It’s my understanding that hydraulic fluid and ATF foam when mixed. Perhaps fill with a cheaper ATF, run it a bit, and then do another refill with say Maxlife? I plan on doing a filter change as well.
I figured Maxlife would be a good choice. Synthetic and relatively cheap per gallon. Plus, I always some on hand. I was entertaining full syn Kubota UDT2, but it looks like the Max is a tad thinner at colder temps.