What Hydraulic Fluid Goes in a Tow Truck?

Tow trucks, also known as wreckers, are used to transport other vehicles from one location to another. They typically come equipped with hydraulic systems that enable them to lift and pull vehicles.

To ensure that these hydraulic systems operate efficiently and safely, it is important to use the correct type of hydraulic fluid.

Types of Hydraulic Fluid Used in Tow Trucks

The type of hydraulic fluid used in tow trucks varies depending on the make and model. Generally speaking, most tow trucks use either mineral oil or synthetic oil-based fluids for their hydraulic systems.

Mineral oil-based fluids are more cost-effective and provide adequate lubrication for most applications. Synthetic oil-based fluids are more expensive but last longer and provide superior protection against wear and tear.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hydraulic Fluid

When choosing a hydraulic fluid for your tow truck, there are several factors you should consider including viscosity, flash point, pour point, and compatibility with other components. Viscosity is an important factor as it determines the amount of friction between the moving parts in the system. The flash point is the temperature at which the fluid will ignite if exposed to a spark or flame while pour point is the temperature at which the fluid will become thick and difficult to flow through pipes or hoses.

Advantages of Using Synthetic Oil-Based Fluids

Although mineral oil-based fluids are cost effective and provide adequate lubrication for most applications, synthetic oil-based fluids offer several advantages over their mineral counterparts. Synthetic oils have superior high temperature stability and oxidation resistance which allow them to last longer than mineral oils. Additionally, they tend to be more resistant to thermal breakdown which helps prevent damage caused by extreme temperatures.

Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing a hydraulic fluid for your tow truck, it is important to take into consideration factors such as viscosity, flash point, pour point, and compatibility with other components. Although mineral oils are more cost effective they do not offer the same level of protection against wear and tear as synthetic options do.

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Stephen Dunn