Guide to Choosing Hydraulic Oil for Skid Steer Loaders in Winter
Dear customers and friends, As winter approaches, low temperatures will bring serious challenges to the hydraulic system of your small wheel loader. In order to ensure smooth starting of equipment in cold environment, efficient operation and effective protection of hydraulic components, LGZT specially reminds you to replace the suitable winter small wheel loader hydraulic oil in time, to avoid the difficulty of oil suction by the work pump, abnormal system pressure, slow movement and even damage to components due to the oil viscosity being too high. Please make your selection based on the minimum air temperature in your area, referring to the following criteria:
1、Basic criteria for selecting hydraulic oil (based on minimum air temperature)
minimum temperature range |
Recommended hydraulic oil type LGZT |
Key Features and Applicable Description |
minus 30°С and below |
extremely cold hydraulic oil |
Ultra-low pour point and freezing point, excellent fluidity at low temperatures, ensuring smooth flow of hydraulic oil in severe cold conditions and protecting the pump valve |
above minus 30°C |
Anti-wear hydraulic oil No. 32 |
Low viscosity grade (ISO VG 32), good low temperature fluidity and excellent wear resistance, it is the first choice in most cold areas in winter |
minus 10°C and above |
Anti-wear hydraulic oil No. 46 |
The medium viscosity grade (ISO VG 46) provides good protection against grease in relatively mild winters (minimum temperature above -10°C), but if the air temperature is often below this limit, it is recommended to use No. 32. |
2. A Critical Winter Reminder About Diesel Fuel Switching for Small Wheel Loaders
• Switching time: When the air temperature in your area continues to drop to around 4°C, or you feel that the engine is difficult to start and runs rough in winter.
• Oil selection: Be sure to switch to qualified “winter small wheel loader diesel fuel.”
• Main advantage: Winter diesel fuel has a lower freezing point and cold filtration point, which can effectively prevent the deposition of diesel wax crystals at low temperature, thereby avoiding the clogging of the oil circuit, filter and injector, ensuring smooth cold starting of the engine and stable operation.
3. ADDITIONAL
1. "Minimum air temperature"This means that the above recommendations are based on historical minimum temperatures or expected extreme minimum temperatures where your equipment is operating or parked, not on average daily temperatures. Be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
2. Certification and oil source:It is highly recommended to use small wheel loader hydraulic oil and small wheel loader diesel fuel specified or certified by LGZT. Petroleum products from informal channels may not achieve low temperature ratings, creating significant risks. Determine the low temperature characteristics on the packaging (e.g. pour point, freezing point, viscosity index).
3. Replacement operation:When changing hydraulic oil, care should be taken to empty the old oil and, if necessary, clean the fuel tank. Operate in accordance with the operating instructions for the equipment, paying attention to the system exhaust. At the same time, replace the hydraulic oil filter element.
4. Comprehensive service:Winter maintenance isn't limited to oils. It's also important to check and ensure the coolant's freezing point is low enough, the battery is in good condition, the air filter is clean, and so on, to ensure the equipment is ready for winter in all respects.
5. Consult your local service provider:If you have questions about specific local climate conditions or the selection of petroleum products, the most reliable solution is to consult with a local authorized LGZT service provider. They have the most accurate regional climate data and experience in equipment adaptation.
Summarize the key action areas:
• Check the air temperature:Check the expected minimum temperature at your location
• Replacing hydraulic oil:According to the table above, select the LGZT (extreme cold oil/No. 32/No. 46) hydraulic oil that matches the low temperature range.
• Diesel fuel replacement:If the air temperature drops to approximately 4°C or starting becomes difficult, be sure to switch to winter diesel fuel.
• Use genuine products:Stick to genuine oils recommended or certified by LGZT.
• Maintenance:Conduct comprehensive maintenance of equipment during the winter period, including fluid replacement.
LGZT reminds you that timely oil changes and maintenance during the winter are key to ensuring reliable equipment operation in severe cold, extending its service life, and avoiding unscheduled downtime. Be sure to pay attention and perform these maintenance checks promptly! Wishing you continued success with your equipment this winter!





