I am a new person in the department and I am going thru/redoing the pm program (which is old)I am finding oils in the pm that don't match what we have in our stock. So I did an oil sample of the small crane in question, it came back Omala 320. We don't have Omala 320 in our stock, Yes we can get it, but for the sake of keeping things as simple, our department uses a lot of Omala 220 and 460. My question: can I use Omala 220 or 460 instead of 320 so I don't have to bring in another oil grade into the department?

Usually it is permissible to go up or down one grade. Typically, if the gearbox is inside, and has a slow rpm, I recommend that you go to the 460. Is it a right angle worm? If so, 460 would be the best move.

I have been in industrial lubrication for 20 years.

Might I suggest you check what the original oil recommendation is/was.What is proposed is OK but may have been done before, so you may be along way away from the original recommendation.

Thanks guys, This department is over 60 years old. taking ambient temp and history I am going take RABrown's advice and use 460. I did some research on other cranes of the same type and 460 seems to be the norm. Thanks Roger I appreciate your insight also and agree.

R1ch

One caution when increasing lube viscosity. Watch the oil temperature old vs new. The thing here is the higher viscosity will generate more heat, the issue is the temperature still within limits. Good luck.

Good Point Gerald,Fortunetly these cranes are not in continuous use. And have a long period inbetween useage. So... the temp. will be within acceptable parameters.
Thanks for your insight!!!