What Kind of Hydraulic Oil Does a Tow Truck Use?

Tow trucks are essential to modern life and they rely on hydraulic oil to power their lifts. The hydraulic oil used in tow trucks is specifically designed for this purpose and plays a critical role in the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle. It is important to select the right type of oil for your tow truck, as the wrong choice could cause serious damage to the lift system.

Most tow truck operators use a mineral-based oil, which has a lower cost than synthetic oils. Mineral-based oils are also better able to withstand high temperatures and are ideal for vehicles that are used regularly. However, these oils have limited protection against wear and tear, so they must be changed more often than synthetic oils.

Synthetic hydraulic oils are more expensive but provide superior protection against wear and tear. These oils also have better thermal stability than mineral-based oils, meaning they can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down. Synthetic hydraulic oils are ideal for tow trucks that operate in extreme conditions or that are used infrequently.

When selecting hydraulic oil for your tow truck, it is important to consider the manufacturer’s recommendations. Different manufacturers may specify different types of oil, so it is important to check before making a purchase.

Additionally, it is important to select an oil with the correct viscosity rating for your vehicle’s lift system. Too low a viscosity rating can reduce efficiency while too high can cause excessive wear on components.

In Conclusion


The type of hydraulic oil used in tow trucks should be carefully selected based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the operating environment of the vehicle. Most tow truck operators choose a mineral-based oil due to its lower cost; however, synthetic options offer superior protection against wear and tear in more extreme conditions or when vehicles are used infrequently. Additionally, it is important to select an oil with an appropriate viscosity rating for your vehicle’s lift system.

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James Gardner