Need to take a quick and dirty poll. What weight oil do you use or see in Hyster forklifts and catepillar wheel loader hydraulics and transmissions? I have heard of people using SAE 15W40 motor oil in hydraulics and transmissions. This does not seem regular to me. Could the additives in Motor oil have an effect on the hydraulic and transmission system components?

I know nothing about these pieces of equipment, but first look in the owner's manual (missing? call the dealership or company for advice). Also, I would think motor oil would not be a good idea in an hydraulic system.

I don't know anything about the hysters. Like tallPaul suggests, the dealers would be good sources.

Older cat engines and transmissions like the 3408 engine use a straight 30 weight. Hydraulic systems are not fussy. Usally a 10 weight engine oil or a designated hydraulic oil.

Your best bet is to check the oil specs and see if it has Cat endorsements. Like... Cat Powershift transmissions.

Some 15/40 oils are rated for Cat and Allison transmissions.

Give me model numbers and I can tell you what will work. I work with heavy equipment in the field all of the time, but, you need to know which ones you have. Just about everyone is different.

for example:


Lubricant Recommendations Database

HYSTER , Brand: Texaco
Division:
Equipment Type: Forklift Model(s): H300XL; H330XL; H360XL
Component ChevronTexaco Product Status Last Review Date Notes Approval Country
Drive Axle and Differential Texaco Multigear® EP SAE 80W-90 M 01/01/2001 Option: 85W-140 ♂♂♂
Hydraulics Texaco Ursa® Premium TDX M 01/01/2001
Perkins 1000-6 Texaco Ursa® Premium TDX M 01/01/2001
Transmission Texaco TDH® Oil M 01/01/2001

General Notes: Oats Study Data
Source Date:
ChevronTexaco lubricant approvals and recommendations for OEM equipment are based on best available data at time of release. It is always recommended that you check the latest OEM specifications for recommendations on specific or unique applications.

Hawk