Ensuring a snow plow operates reliably in freezing temperatures is critical; consequently, selecting the best hydraulic fluid is paramount for optimal performance. This specialized fluid must maintain viscosity in extreme cold, protect against wear, and resist corrosion. It prevents sluggish operation, improves efficiency, and extends equipment life. This guide explores 5 top hydraulic fluids, helping you choose for low-temperature performance, anti-wear properties, and compatibility. Ultimately, a good fluid guarantees your plow is always ready for winter.
5 Best Hydraulic Fluid for Snow Plow
1. Super S Low-Temp Hydraulic Fluid (ISO 22 AT 40)
- Features an exceptionally low pour point (rated to -50°F / -45°C), consequently ensuring excellent cold start-up performance in extreme winter conditions.
- Designed with a high viscosity index, actively maintaining optimal viscosity across a wide operating temperature range (-40°F to 80°F).
- Provides superior anti-wear additives, consequently protecting metal components from friction and wear, thus extending equipment lifespan.
- Offers anti-oxidation and anti-rust properties, actively preventing fluid degradation and corrosion within the hydraulic system.
- Suitable as a service fill option for most major snow plow brands including Sno-Way, Meyer, and Western, ensuring broad compatibility.
- Comes in convenient container sizes (e.g., quart, gallon) for easy fluid management.
- Engineered to reduce electrical current draw from the truck battery during cold weather operations, consequently improving efficiency.
- Features a stable formula, resisting viscosity breakdown even under high-pressure conditions.
- Provides consistent performance, consequently ensuring smooth operation of the plow’s hydraulic system.
- Represents a highly regarded and cost-effective solution for reliable low-temperature snow plow operation.
2. Meyer Type M-1 Snow Plow Hydraulic Fluid (OEM 15134)
- Features a formulation specifically designed for Meyer snow plow hydraulic systems, consequently ensuring optimal compatibility and performance.
- Engineered to withstand extremely cold temperatures (rated down to -40°F / -40°C), consequently preventing sluggish operation.
- Provides excellent lubrication and protection for hydraulic components, actively reducing wear and tear.
- Offers superior viscosity maintenance in cold weather, ensuring efficient operation and responsive plow movements.
- Includes anti-rust and anti-corrosion additives, actively safeguarding internal hydraulic parts from damage.
- Comes in convenient packaging (e.g., 1-gallon pack of 4 quarts) for easy handling and storage.
- Helps to prevent premature failure of hydraulic pumps and cylinders in harsh winter conditions.
- Designed to reduce electrical current draw from the truck battery during cold weather operations.
- Provides consistent performance, consequently ensuring the plow functions effectively even in freezing temperatures.
- Represents a manufacturer-recommended OEM choice for reliable and protective snow plow operation.
3. Western High Performance Hydraulic Fluid (OEM 49330)
- Features a formulation specifically designed for Western snow plow hydraulic systems, consequently ensuring precise compatibility and performance.
- Engineered to provide better viscosity in extreme temperatures, actively maintaining optimal flow characteristics in bitter cold.
- Offers superior protection for all moving hydraulic components, consequently reducing friction and wear for extended equipment life.
- Includes anti-wear additives, actively creating a durable shield against wear for internal parts.
- Helps to prevent common cold-weather issues like sluggishness or hydraulic system strain during start-up.
- Comes in convenient gallon-sized containers for efficient fluid changes.
- Designed to ensure consistent performance even in the harshest winter conditions, guaranteeing reliable plow operation.
- Often available in a distinct color (e.g., blue) for positive leak detection, consequently aiding in maintenance.
- Provides excellent lubrication, consequently contributing to the smooth and quiet operation of the plow’s hydraulics.
- Represents a manufacturer-recommended OEM choice for robust and reliable snow plowing performance.
4. Boss High Performance Hydraulic Fluid (OEM HYD01836)
- Features a specialized formulation designed to maintain its viscosity from normal use down to -40°F (-40°C), consequently ensuring consistent performance in extreme cold.
- Provides high-performance lubrication for Boss snow plow hydraulic systems, actively reducing friction and wear.
- Includes anti-wear chemistry, actively forming a protective shield against component deterioration.
- Helps to prevent fluid thickening and sluggish response during cold weather start-ups.
- Comes in various sizes (e.g., quart, gallon, case of 4 gallons) for convenient purchasing options.
- Designed to ensure optimal operation and longevity of Boss snow plow hydraulic pumps and cylinders.
- Offers excellent cold flow properties, consequently allowing for quick and responsive plow movements in frigid conditions.
- Recommended for annual fluid changes to maintain peak performance and system health.
- Provides robust protection against sludge build-up and corrosion.
- Represents a manufacturer-recommended OEM choice for reliable and protective snow plowing.
5. SNOWPLOW Extreme Low Temperature Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., Como Lube)
- Features an anti-wear mineral base hydraulic fluid with an exceptionally high viscosity index (300+), consequently ensuring excellent low-temperature fluidity.
- Boasts an extremely low pour point (less than -75°F / -60°C), consequently making it suitable for the most severe winter conditions imaginable.
- Provides superior anti-wear properties, actively protecting hydraulic components from friction and stress.
- Designed to be non-gumming, non-corrosive, and highly resistant to oxidation, consequently ensuring fluid longevity and system cleanliness.
- Compatible with all standard seal materials found in hydraulic systems designed for petroleum oils.
- Recommended for equipment subject to wide ambient temperature variations or limited power input where lubricant thickening is a concern.
- Ideal for situations where power input is limited and increases in torque due to lubricant thickening cannot be tolerated.
- Offers proven performance in the harshest weather conditions, consequently ensuring continuous plow operation.
- Often meets Mil-H-5606A specifications, indicating military-grade performance.
- Represents a specialized, ultra-low temperature solution for extreme cold applications.
Buying Guide
Selecting the ideal hydraulic fluid for your snow plow genuinely requires thoughtful consideration of several crucial factors, consequently ensuring your chosen fluid provides optimal low-temperature performance, wear protection, and compatibility for reliable winter operation.
Low-Temperature Performance (Pour Point & Viscosity Index)
This is the most critical factor. The pour point is the lowest temperature at which the fluid will still flow. An exceptionally low pour point (e.g., -40°F or lower) is essential for arctic conditions. The viscosity index (VI) indicates how much the fluid’s viscosity changes with temperature; a high VI means it maintains optimal thickness across a wide range, subsequently ensuring smooth operation from cold start to warm run.
Anti-Wear (AW) Additives
Snow plow hydraulics operate under high pressure and constant motion, causing wear. Look for hydraulic fluids formulated with robust anti-wear (AW) additives. These additives create a protective shield on metal surfaces, actively minimizing friction, reducing component wear, and extending the lifespan of hydraulic pumps, cylinders, and valves, subsequently preventing costly repairs and downtime.
Viscosity Grade (ISO VG)
Hydraulic fluid viscosity is typically classified by its ISO VG (International Standards Organization Viscosity Grade). For snow plows, ISO VG 22 or ISO VG 32 are common, with ISO VG 22 offering better cold-weather flow. Always consult your snow plow manufacturer’s manual for the recommended ISO VG. Using the wrong viscosity can lead to sluggish operation or inadequate protection, subsequently impacting performance.
Anti-Corrosion and Anti-Oxidation
Hydraulic fluid must protect internal components from rust and corrosion, especially in environments exposed to moisture and road salt. Anti-corrosion additives form a protective film. Anti-oxidation additives prevent the fluid from breaking down prematurely due to heat and air exposure, which can lead to sludge and varnish formation. These properties ensure fluid longevity and system cleanliness.
Compatibility with Plow Brand (OEM vs. Universal)
Many snow plow manufacturers (e.g., Western, Meyer, Boss, Fisher) produce their OEM-specific hydraulic fluids. These are guaranteed compatible and often specially formulated for their systems. Universal or aftermarket fluids may offer comparable performance but always verify compatibility with your specific plow brand to avoid voiding warranties or causing damage. Consult your plow’s manual first, subsequently ensuring proper fluid selection.
Color and Leak Detection
Some snow plow hydraulic fluids are dyed a specific color (e.g., blue) to aid in positive leak detection. A distinct color makes it easier to spot hydraulic fluid leaks against snow or pavement, helping you identify and address issues quickly before they escalate. While not a performance factor, it is a practical feature for maintenance.
Water Tolerance and Demulsibility
In harsh winter conditions, water contamination can occur. Hydraulic fluid should ideally be demulsifying, meaning it allows water to separate from the oil. This prevents emulsion (mixture of oil and water) which can reduce lubrication and cause corrosion. Good water tolerance ensures the fluid maintains its properties even with minor contamination, subsequently protecting the system.
Tips
Annual Fluid Change
- Change your snow plow hydraulic fluid at the beginning of every plow season, consequently ensuring fresh fluid with optimal properties for cold weather.
- Consider changing fluid again mid-season if you experience very heavy use or observe a change in fluid color/performance.
Proper Draining and Flushing
- Completely drain the old hydraulic fluid from the system, consequently removing contaminants and degraded fluid.
- Consider flushing the hydraulic system with a dedicated hydraulic flush fluid (if recommended by the manufacturer) over the summer, subsequently cleaning internal components.
Preventing Contamination
- Store new hydraulic fluid in sealed, clean containers in a dry place, consequently preventing contamination from dirt, dust, or moisture.
- Always use clean funnels and hoses when refilling the reservoir, consequently avoiding the introduction of foreign particles.
Checking Fluid Level
- Check the hydraulic fluid level when the plow is fully lowered and the fluid is cold, consequently ensuring an accurate reading.
- Maintain the fluid level between the “add” and “full” marks on the reservoir, consequently preventing air cavitation or overflow.
Troubleshooting Fluid Issues
- If your plow becomes sluggish in cold weather despite new fluid, ensure your battery is strong, as hydraulics require ample electrical current for optimal performance.
- If you notice unusual noise, foam, or discoloration in the fluid, consult your plow’s manual or a professional, consequently indicating potential system issues.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Viscosity Grade (ISO VG) | Pour Point (Approx.) | Key Additives | Compatibility (Brands) | Feature for Cold |
| 1. Super S Low-Temp Hydraulic Fluid | 22 | -50°F (-45°C) | Anti-Wear, Anti-Oxidant | Universal (Major Brands) | High Viscosity Index |
| 2. Meyer Type M-1 Hydraulic Fluid | (OEM Specific) | -40°F (-40°C) | Anti-Wear, Corrosion | Meyer Specific | Optimal Cold Viscosity |
| 3. Western High Performance Hydraulic Fluid | (OEM Specific) | -40°F (-40°C) | Anti-Wear | Western Specific | Extreme Temp Viscosity |
| 4. Boss High Performance Hydraulic Fluid | (OEM Specific) | -40°F (-40°C) | Anti-Wear | Boss Specific | Viscosity Stability |
| 5. SNOWPLOW Extreme Low Temperature Hydraulic Fluid | (e.g., 15) | Less than -75°F (-60°C) | High VI, Anti-Wear | Universal | Ultra-Low Pour Point |
Export to Sheets
FAQ
Q: What is hydraulic fluid for a snow plow?
A: It is a specialized oil that transfers power within the snow plow’s hydraulic system. It allows the plow to lift, angle, and operate smoothly, especially in cold winter conditions.
Q: Why is low-temperature performance important for plow fluid?
A: Snow plow fluid must remain fluid and maintain proper viscosity in extreme cold. This ensures the plow responds quickly and operates smoothly, preventing sluggishness or damage during freezing temperatures.
Q: Can I use regular hydraulic oil in my snow plow?
A: No, it is not recommended. Regular hydraulic oil may thicken too much in cold temperatures, causing sluggish operation or even damaging your plow’s hydraulic pump. Use fluid specifically for snow plows.
Q: How often should I change my snow plow’s hydraulic fluid?
A: Most manufacturers recommend changing snow plow hydraulic fluid at the beginning of every plow season. Heavy use might require an additional change mid-season.
Q: What happens if I use the wrong hydraulic fluid?
A: Using the wrong fluid can cause sluggish plow operation, increased wear on components, pump cavitation, or even permanent damage to your hydraulic system. It may also void your warranty.
Q: What is “pour point” and “viscosity index”?
A: Pour point is the lowest temperature where the fluid still flows. Viscosity index (VI) shows how much the fluid’s thickness changes with temperature. A high VI means it stays stable in varying cold.
Q: Do all snow plow brands use the same hydraulic fluid?
A: While some universal fluids exist, many major brands (Meyer, Western, Boss) produce their OEM-specific hydraulic fluids. Always consult your plow’s manual for the recommended type.
Q: Can I mix different brands of hydraulic fluid?
A: It is generally not recommended to mix different brands or types of hydraulic fluid. Mixing can lead to compatibility issues, reduced performance, or damage to the hydraulic system.
Q: How do I check the hydraulic fluid level on my snow plow?
A: Typically, check the fluid level when the plow is fully lowered (resting on the ground) and the fluid is cold. Consult your plow’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and fill marks.
Q: Does hydraulic fluid help prevent rust in the plow’s system?
A: Yes, quality snow plow hydraulic fluids contain anti-corrosion and anti-rust additives. These additives form a protective layer on internal metal components, safeguarding the system from rust formation.
Conclusion
Choosing the 5 best hydraulic fluid for snow plow genuinely ensures reliable, efficient operation in the harshest winter conditions. This specialized fluid provides crucial low-temperature performance, wear protection, and system compatibility. By prioritizing pour point, anti-wear additives, and viscosity, you select an ideal fluid. Ultimately, a good hydraulic fluid guarantees your snow plow is always ready for peak performance.