Merlo Tech Talk: Hydraulic fluid too thick
The brakes are not functioning well. The boom is running slower, than, well, molasses on a cold day. One look in the hydraulic tank and all you see is jelly. Let’s talk about cold days, hydraulic fluid, and getting the best from your Merlo.
Need to Know:
Merlo Maintenance schedule calls for changing out the hydraulic fluid 2 times a year, on average.
Merlo suggests selecting the correct hydraulic fluid for the weather where the machine will be operating. This could mean replacing the hydraulic fluid more often or find the best fit from the following types of fluid. One weight does not fit all weather situations (Note: Merlo suggestions are based on Mobil Oil Company hydraulic fluid ratings.)
AMS-Merlo is located in Rock Hill, SC. Our shop uses 46 Weight anti wear (AW) hydraulic fluid: good up to 104 degrees, and temps above freezing.
Hydraulic fluid weights recap (Fahrenheit):
- 46 Weight anti wear (AW) hydraulic fluid: good up to 104 degrees, and above freezing
- 32 Weight AW: good up to 86 degrees, and down to -5 degrees
- 22 Weight AW: good up to 138 degrees, and down to -22 degrees
- Artic weight hydraulic fluid: upper limit is zero
AMS-Merlo is located in Rock Hill, SC. Our shop uses 46 Weight anti wear (AW) hydraulic fluid: good up to 104 degrees, and temps above freezing.
Remember: Additives change compressibility. That jelly seen in the fluid tank? Gelled hydraulic fluid.
To fix the issue: Move the entire machine to a heated (above 32 degrees F) building and let it thaw out; could take up to 24 hours. Then, replace the hydraulic fluid with the correct weight for the situation.
Still have questions?
Please call our service advisors: 803-327-4949
Monday-Thursday 7:00 AM-3:45 PM and Fridays 7:00 AM-3:15 PM.
After hours cell phone: 704-288-9225
