Log Splitter, what fluid to use

[Dieselsrule]

Hello,
I have been reading this forum for about a year and I really like it.
I have a 10 year old Northern Tool log splitter that I bought used a few years ago and I want to change the Hydraulic fluid. It has an 11 gpm Haldex 2 stage pump. It works great but I think the fluid and filter should be changed. The outside temperature range I use it in can be from 20 degrees to 95 degrees. I don't know exactly what hydraulic fluid is in it now but it whines from starving when I first start it at temps below 35 degrees, in the summer I would estimate the oil temp can approach 200 degrees on long runs.

Which would be better in this application, Hydraulic Fluid or ATF ? I would like to hear the pros and cons of both in this application.

Thanks in advance

 

[salesrep]

A commercial logsplitter manufacturer that I deal with recommends atf in the cold or all season and iso 46 in warmer climates.

 

[HM12460]

iirc, mobil dte-26 carries a viscosity guide of iso 46. i'd use dte-25 or maybe atf in winter weather.

 

[MolaKule]

I would use something like Schaeffer's #254 in ISO46 or a synthetic such as Amsoil's AWH05 in ISO32, or a Bio-Synthetic in ISO32.

The 5-gallons pail purchases will save you money in the long run.

I would not recommend an ATF since it does not contain enough AW additives, IMHO.

Changing filters once a year and hydraulic fluid every two years is a good practice.

 

[MolaKule]

Since this is an older unit, I would add some ARX at 1oz./qt and change the filter after five hours.

ARX has cleaned up many a control valve problem or leaky valve/ram seals on old units.

And oh yes, welcome: