Hydraulics question

[Reno Rascal]

Hi. I am new to this forum and so far it looks like a great group. I have a 2005 Itasca Sunrise on a Workhorse 33V chassis. I want to top off the Hydrolics fluid for the leveling jacks. The manual says to use regular Hydrolics fluid but that ATF could be used in a pinch. The label on the resivoir says to use ATF only. I don't know why this discrepancy exists. Is there a difference? Can the two be mixed? I don't know what is in the unit right now. Any thoughts?

[chuckftboy]

Yes they can be mixed with no problems but if your manual says use standard hydraulic fluid, why not go to your local auto parts store and get some? Probably cheaper anyway.

[IASM]

Keep in mind that any recommendation for hydraulic fluid or atf does not include brake fluid used in hydraulic brakes. Some auto parts stores will offer up brake fluid as hydraulic fluid. You likely know this but never hurts to make sure. The mistake is costly.

[TQ60]

If the tank states atf then use atf.
It is high in detergent and that helps keep the valves clean.

There are different types of atf but it should not matter much for the jacks.

[Gary RVRoamer]

ATF is a hydraulic fluid, so there really is no discrepancy.

Did the manual specify a particular spec (viscosity) of hydraulic fluid, e.g. AW 32 or ISO 46? If so, that's the best choice, but not the only acceptable one. If it just says "hydraulic fluid", then ATF qualifies as one of the several available types. And ATF is compatible with the jack hydraulic system (brake fluid is not).

Personally, I would just go ahead and use the ATF, since it is clearly labeled for it.

[Reno Rascal]

Thanks to all who replied. I will stick with the ATF in this case.

[vettenuts]

They make their own fluid, I use that and only ATF in a pinch.