APB For Dale Brubaker-Slide Fluid

[mtnhntr]

Dale, (alias mimf2), If you are out there, I need some advice on the type of fluid to use to top off my slide actuator reservoir. I have read the previous posts and the manual where the use of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is recommended. However,it is a red color and the fluid in my 5er is clear. I like the clear because if any leaks out it won't leave a red stain in the wrong place. Anyway, I called the dealer and they said to use HWH hydraulic fluid which is clear and which is what they said I had if it was clear. To use the ATF I would have to first purge out the HWH as they said I should not ever mix the two. My question is it OK to use HWH? Or should I purge the system and replace it with ATF. Note: the dealer said they get some with red fluid and some with clear fluid from the factory.
Thanks in advance. Ken

[MIMF2]

mtnhntr,

Here I is!!

If the fluid in your reservoir is clear, it was fluid put in by the factory. It is a fluid that is the same fiscosity as ATF. ATF in it's normal state is clear. It is red because dye was added to identify it if the tranny of your tow vehicle for example, developed a leak. If you see red fluid on the ground under your car or truck, it's from your tranny and it needs attention. The very same principle applies here. If the pump or anything else in the hydraulic system has a leak, it needs your attention! In short, it don't matter. Mix them together. It won't hurt a thing.

With the rooms fully retracted, in,, the fluid level needs to be 1/2" from the top of the tank. When you get the level where you want it, use a black permanent marker and mark a line at the fluid level on the side of the tank. Then, extent all of the rooms out completely and place a mark at the fluid level again. Use those marks as a guage. If the fluid is ever lower than the mark, you know you will need to be watching for red fluid on the ground under the coach or, Heaven forbid, it could be on the floor under the bed.

Either way, I can guarantee that if a fluid leak developes under the bed, it won't matter what color it is, you will not want it there!

If you need to purchase fluid to add to your reservoir, go to your nearest Walmart store. Go back to the automotive section and find the cheapest stuff you can find on the shelf. If it says "DexronIII/Mercon,Mercon 5" and cost less then about a buck 70 per quart, buy it! It will work just fine and will not void any warranty.

The Challenger you see in my signature has 4 rooms and hydraulic landing gear legs. All being operated flawlessly on ATF DexronIII/Mercon.

If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to call me at my desk at 866-574-7821.

Have a great evening and hope I put you mind at ease.

Dale

[Mac]

Dale,

As I always say........... Thanks for being part of our group! We're lucky you hang around these parts!

mac

[Cat320]

The logic Dale used re the color and identifying where it came from is the same the Army uses in identifying leaking transmissions in helicopters. In a previous life in sunny SE Asia, we used to carry a case of the red stuff around in our trusty Chinooks, if they hadn't started to leak yet...they were getting ready to leak!

[mtnhntr]

Dale , Thanks a million. ATF it is! I really appreciate your giving that advice.
Thanks again, Ken