A retired mechanic in Tampa said something about hydraulic oil that finally clicked for me

3 comments

3 Comments

Hydraulic oil is just slippery grease to a lot of people. The old-timer probably said it's about pressure, not just lubrication. My take is the exact opposite. Without that slick film, the pumps and valves grind themselves to dust in hours. Pressure means nothing if the metal parts are welded together from friction. It's the oil film doing the real work.

faith_thomas12d ago

Ever seen what happens when someone uses motor oil in a hydraulic system? My uncle tried that in his old tractor to save a few bucks. The pump seized solid after a week, and he had to replace the whole unit.

xenaf5112d ago

Saw a pump eat itself without proper oil once.