Trim & Trim Tab Fluid

[Big Time]

Is it correct to use conventional oil for these things? I heard of using ATF, but what I have in there is not ATF (more of a brown color). I looked real quick the other day at the label on my pumps and it reference what looked like regular oil classifications (can't remember exactly what it was though). What does everyone use, one of my reservoir's is getting low.

 

[Chris]

Some use hydraulic fluid and some use motor oil. Depends on the pump. ATF meets the DTE32 spec for hydraulic fluid- but it only replaces DTE32, not others.

 

[Seafordguy]

I use 10W-30

 

[Big Time]

Can I used any kind? And can I mix the different brands?

 

[Geronimo36]

I've found the pumps to run quicker with ATF.

When it has the brown in it already, I use the power steering/trim fluid avail at the marine store...if not I just use ATF...

I guess it's up to you!

 

[07DominatorSS]

Is it correct to use conventional oil for these things? I heard of using ATF, but what I have in there is not ATF (more of a brown color). I looked real quick the other day at the label on my pumps and it reference what looked like regular oil classifications (can't remember exactly what it was though). What does everyone use, one of my reservoir's is getting low.

I use AMSOIL ATF

 

[Chris]

I have been told that the old oil pumps will work on 10 weight hyd fluid, but I've never tried it. I guess you have motor oil on board anyway...

I would not personally mix petroleum products. There is quite a bit more in there aside from oil and you don't know how they'll react to each other. It may cause seals to deteriorate and it may not provide friction protection. And you know the pump isn't going to give up while the boat is in your shop over the winter, while you have the engine out.

 

[89Mach1]

I use ATF as the manufacturer recommends.

 

[MOBILEMERCMAN]

Most new pumps are marked to use 10w30. Anything heavier makes it difficult to bleed.

 

[Big Time]

Thanks...I'm going to take a closer look at the pump tomorrow to see what the pump says, but just wanted to make sure I was doing the right thing.

 

[old377guy]

I run whatever is in the motors - 10w 40