Which oil to use?? Cancel The title field is required!

1. Bywater Nigel

   
   1/12/2013 2:01 AM

   Hi all,
   
   Quick question regarding engine oils......
   Is is best to use a specific oil for each of petrol or diesel engines or can we use one oil for both?
   I have a dealer that has a multipurpose synthetic oil (15W 40) that is recommended for use in both types of engine and can also be used as a hydraulic oil.
   The price is pretty reasonable. Is this to good to be true?
   
   Many thanks in advance,
   
   Nigel Bywater
   Golf Course Manager
   Golf De Mogador
   Morocco

   
   
   
   
2. Michael Kriz

   

   0 posts
   
   1/12/2013 9:01 AM

   You will find varied opionions on this subject as you will for all the other pointed subjects i.e. grinding, aerification etc. I personally use oils recommended by each engine manufacturer but know of other techs that use 15-40 in every application in their fleet. This is another of those wide open topics.

   
   
   
   
3. Dinger Greg

   
   1/12/2013 9:01 AM

   There are several oils that can go both ways, gas and diesel. Many changes occurred in 2007 for on road engines. Off road didn't change with it, but oil specs did. Check your OEM recommendation for each engine, and follow these and viscosities closely. Keep in mind that most current oil specs are backward compatible.
   
   As far as using engine oil as a hydraulic oil? This has been happening for decades. It is old technology and thankfully we are getting away from it. There is simply better stuff available, with better long term system protection that puts less stress on the system.

   
   
   
   
4. Paul Double

   

   37 posts
   
   1/17/2013 7:01 AM

   Yes many people use one oil and go with it trying to reduce inventory and save money by buying in bulk. This can work, but the best method is to follow your operator manuals and use the recommended oils. Follow your manual especially if you have newer equipment that is under warranty. If something happens to the engine or hydraulics during your warranty, that is one thing they will check immediately and warranty will be void if improper oil is used.
   
   Paul Double
   Sugar Valley Golf Club

   
   
   
   
5. Mark Van Lienden

   

   14 posts
   
   1/17/2013 10:01 AM

   We use one oil in all an never have had a problem.We use one hydraulic in all and never have had a problem.We now use one grease in all and not seen a problem.It is a lot simpler as all employees check their own mowers.

   
   
   
   
6. Henry Heinz

   

   0 posts
   
   1/18/2013 6:01 AM

   The engine oil and grease I don't see any real issues with, but hydraulic oils are a bit different and you can cost yourself a hydro or pump if not careful. Some equipment requires ATF transmission fluid and other hydraulic oils could lead to a damaged system. When changing out hydraulic systems there are certain steps to take to carefully flush the system and avoid any cross contaminants.
   
   Regards,

   
   
   
   
7. Bywater Nigel

   
   1/21/2013 2:01 AM

   Many thanks for all your replies guys!
   Most of my equipment is just out of the guarantee period. I think i am going to still buy individual oils as described in the machine manuals. I don't like to take risks with that kind of thing.
   
   Thanks again!
   
   Nigel
   Golf Course Manager
   Golf de Mogador
   Morocco

   
   
   
   
8. Henry Heinz

   

   0 posts
   
   1/21/2013 7:01 AM

   While it seem like a pain in the rear, I think you're making a wise decision there with your oils.... Many years ago I would use one oil, or mix things up, but these days I just don't take the chance. Manufactures go through a lot of testing and engineering to find what works best in their products and what holds up the best and some oils, just like chemicals, just don't like to be mixed together.
   
   Regards,