QuickJack hydraulic fluid weight question

[F1-Dynamics]

Picking up some  non toxic fluid (in-case of leaks) for my QuickJacks and deciding what weight to choose. I live in SoCal and our temps range from 50f-90f. I was recommended ISO 32 but wondering if It would be better to step up to ISO 46 for the warmer months.

 

[eljefino]

Mine runs fine on Dexron.

When you lower it, the speed is controlled by a tiny orifice. A thinner oil would lower faster, and you'll find that fast is a relative term. In short, go with the 32.

 

[Astro14]

I thought QuickJack recommended a Dexron III.

 

[F1-Dynamics]

I thought QuickJack recommended a Dexron III.

They recommend any hydraulic fluid or ATF

 

[Astro14]

I wouldn’t worry about viscosity too much, then. That’s a range of recommendations.

I also wouldn’t worry about leaks. Mine is five years old, no leaks. Not even any weeping.

The things to be concerned about - be certain the vent is open, to keep the reservoir from collapsing as fluid is used. Keep the lines clear of work, tire tracks and getting caught. They can be damaged if you drive over them or they get caught in the lifting/lowering.

 

[BHopkins]

I think the advice from @Astro14 is sound. But if you still would feel better having fluid on hand, I would go with the Dexron III, simply because of availability.

Based upon my experience, trying to find ISO32 for my motor home power steering system, it can be tricky to find. ISO46 is similarly tricky to find, unless you have tractor or HD trucking supply stores in your area. Dexron III compliant ATF is everywhere, including likely already on your garage shelf. And if it's not, you can wait until you need it, and pick it up at your convenience.

 

[LDM]

It doesn't really matter, any hydraulic fluid or synthetic ATF will work just fine. I used Dex 6 in mine because I still had a few gallons of it laying around from when I did some transmission fluid swaps.

From their site:

What hydraulic fluid should I use for the power unit?

Any general purpose ISO-32, ISO-46, or ISO-68 hydraulic oil. Approved ATF fluids: Dexron III, Dexron VI, Mercon V, Mercon LV or any synthetic multi-vehicle ATF.

help.quickjack.com

 

[F1-Dynamics]

Thanks all for the feedback. I was specifically asking about ISO weight and the current weather climate I live in (SoCal). Not what fluid to use. I'll probably just go with ISO32 weight like recommend.

 

[BHopkins]

If I may, why do you think having a heavier viscosity is better, in the case of the Quick Jack hydraulic system? There is nowhere near as much heat in a hydraulic system, as there is in an engine. And the oil function is different. It isn't protecting the internal parts of the hydraulic system, as much as it is just transferring energy.

 

[Astro14]

It’s just a pump - nothing fancy. Has lots of power for the work it is doing. Viscosity differences won’t make any appreciable difference. I would buy what is cheap. Mine has AMSOIL in it, because that’s what I happened to have on hand when I filled it up and I didn’t want to wait.

 

[Sam_Julier]

The unit calls for ATF fluid. I used Castrol Dex III. It worked just fine.

 

[edyvw]

I used Vslvoline MaxLife. Works like a charm.

 

[nate379]

I think the advice from @Astro14 is sound. But if you still would feel better having fluid on hand, I would go with the Dexron III, simply because of availability.

Based upon my experience, trying to find ISO32 for my motor home power steering system, it can be tricky to find. ISO46 is similarly tricky to find, unless you have tractor or HD trucking supply stores in your area. Dexron III compliant ATF is everywhere, including likely already on your garage shelf. And if it's not, you can wait until you need it, and pick it up at your convenience.

Any auto parts store, Walmart, farm stores, etc carry hydraulic oil.