Hydraulic Fluid

[Steamer]

Finally broke down and purchased a new Log Splitter today.
I wanted something moderate in size that is easy to handle and has a small footprint so I purchased a two way DR 15 ton Gas Splitter.
I split about 4-5 cord per year of moderate sized standing dead or blown down trees that I harvest on my property.
My question relates to the Hydraulic fluid.
Owners manual only states which weight to use for various temperatures that is- ISO 22, 32,46,68
Which weight have you found to work well ? I will not be splitting wood in the dead of winter. Temperature usually is in 40- 80 degree range when I will be splitting. Also, are any Hydraulic fluid brands better than others?
Thanks in advance.

 

[bogydave]

I don't worry to much about the hydraulic fluid brand.
I have some Napa stuff & I've added some ATF (Automatic Transmission fluid) to my splitter.
Mixed both & no problems. The ATF is better for colder temps. (ATF is hydraulic fluid.)
If I use it in the winter, I park it inside the night before to warm up the oil.
Stays plenty warm when running.

Clean is the important thing to watch.
I haven't changed the fluid mine in 3 years & it still looks clean, should get another 5+ years out of it (at least).

If I ran in the winter a lot, I'd go to synthetic.
May go synthetic if I ever change it.

 

[amateur cutter]

What Dave said. A C

 

[MasterMech]

I second Dave's post as well. So moved.

In regards to weight, if you will never use your splitter in the warmer months, ISO32 will be fine. Otherwise ISO46 is a good multi temp fluid that will work well unles you split in sub zero temps.

 

[clemsonfor]

Get 46 unless u live in Alaska or upeer cantinadia and will split in sub zero temp.

 

[Steamer]

Thanks for the replies
It also appeared to me that ISO 46 will be the best choice.

 

[TreePointer]

My Huskee splitter manual recommends SAE20 or similar (ISO46 qualifies).

 

[clemsonfor]

U can also use universal tractor fluid. But it costs more than plain hydro fluid. But if u have it I brought it up. But moat don't have 4 gallons of fluid laying around.