4-post lift fluid??
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 156
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From: Peoria AZ
I used Dextron III in mine. I was told Dextron III works the same except it allows the lift to lower faster in colder climates. Since Hydraulic fluid is thicker the lift will lower slower when it's cold out. I haven't had a problem with mine. –Ed
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 16,795
Likes: 62
From: Lake Havasu City, AZ
transmission fluid has a different set of additives from hydraulic oils. Especially friction modifiers and anti wear additives.
But if the viscosity matches the manufacturers requirements, there is no reason not to use it.
But if the viscosity matches the manufacturers requirements, there is no reason not to use it.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 1,241
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From: phila. pa .usa
thanx , dexron III it is,hey 1997 c5 I read your post when you got your lift ,I got the same one,this is a tough task for 1 person,had to unload & put together by myself,the ramps are heavy,hopefully have it workin on sunday,cant wait.
Advanced
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 85
Likes: 0
From: Washington PA
I put in transmission fluid in my lift and when you let the lift down, you get the terrible smell of this fluid. I was later told that the hydraulic fluid does not smell as bad. If I ever change the fluid, I will put in hydraulic fluid. I think it is cheaper as well.
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Instructor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 156
Likes: 0
From: Peoria AZ
Originally Posted by 88sk
thanx , dexron III it is,hey 1997 c5 I read your post when you got your lift ,I got the same one,this is a tough task for 1 person,had to unload & put together by myself,the ramps are heavy,hopefully have it workin on sunday,cant wait.
Hope you have a engine hoist and 4 jack stands to help. After you get it set up you'll be happy. I used it to remove my transmission out of my 65 Mustang and the lift paid for itself that day. If you run into any problems with the setup, send me a PM and we'll get through it. 
-Ed
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,222
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From: Mayfield kentucky
Originally Posted by 1997C5
I used Dextron III in mine. I was told Dextron III works the same except it allows the lift to lower faster in colder climates. Since Hydraulic fluid is thicker the lift will lower slower when it's cold out. I haven't had a problem with mine. –Ed
I have three lifts at my shop and I use Dextron III in all of them. 
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 1,241
Likes: 0
From: phila. pa .usa
Originally Posted by 1997C5
Hope you have a engine hoist and 4 jack stands to help. After you get it set up you'll be happy. I used it to remove my transmission out of my 65 Mustang and the lift paid for itself that day. If you run into any problems with the setup, send me a PM and we'll get through it. -Ed 
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
I don't know if this still applies,but 40 years ago I was an Aircraft Mech/Inspector and there were at least 2 different types of Hydraulic fluids available. i.e. Animal,vegatable,mineral based.They were not compatable with each other due to the different composition of the seals. Maybe someone else with more up to date knowledge can chime in? Hep
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 156
Likes: 0
From: Peoria AZ
Originally Posted by VetteGarage
Anyone else that is using Dextron notice the smell??
