Add ATF

[BandJCarm]

Originally Posted by DKRITTER

Just curious, with all of the rams in where is the full line on the tank?


I just went and looked and mine is at about 1/2 a tank with all six jacks down and the slides in. I don't really think I have ever paid attention to it since it has worked.

It's there, but danged near impossible to see. It's about a couple of inches from the top. Long as it isn't near overflowing, but still up close to top, you're fine. There isn't a set max, just a set min. And honestly, I don't know what the minimum is. I just know you can't gauge it by looking at the reservoir when slides out and landing gear down.

[DKRITTER]

Sounds like I need to hook it up to the truck and get into the front compartment.

It's a pia to get into the front compartment when hooked up.

I'll make a few marks; all in, landing gear out and all out.

[Scheinin]

[/ATTACH]

Originally Posted by DKRITTER

Just curious, with all of the rams in where is the full line on the tank?

On mine there is a label on the tank:


[ATTACH]189446

[DKRITTER]

Thanks, if it ever quits raining here in Texas I’ll go open the front compartment and have a look.

[DKRITTER]

Well I finally got around to looking at the tank with all the jacks in and it is a good bit low but not low enough to cause problems. My guess since I know it doesn't leak, is some bean counter at Forest River said if we only fill them some of the way we can save $3.00 on every unit we sell. I'm just a number on some spreadsheet.

Anyway I think since I need to add some I might as well change it. Can someone by chance tell me how many quarts the tanks holds. I would be so so appreciative.

[DG N. AL]

Really, there is very little reason to change that oil. It is not used for lubrication. I know I will get flamed for that.

[NMWildcat]

I agree. I've been told by several techs that it really never needs to be changed. Just add some if it makes you feel better

[DKRITTER]

Originally Posted by DG N. AL

Really, there is very little reason to change that oil. It is not used for lubrication. I know I will get flamed for that.

I know but my assumption is that FR went to the low bidder for hydraulic fluid.

That said I'd rather go ahead and replace it with a quality fluid.

[NMWildcat]

Originally Posted by DKRITTER

I know but my assumption is that FR went to the low bidder for hydraulic fluid.

That said I'd rather go ahead and replace it with a quality fluid.

I understand your logic, but Dexron III compatible specs is all that is required. My hydraulic fluid for my level-up and slides is original, with the exception of 2 quarts I added when replacing one jack. My fiver is almost seven years old.

These hydraulic systems are very basic and low demand on the fluid. You can spend as much as you want for peace of mind, but why?

[5picker]

Originally Posted by NMWildcat

I understand your logic, but Dexron III compatible specs is all that is required. My hydraulic fluid for my level-up and slides is original, with the exception of 2 quarts I added when replacing one jack. My fiver is almost seven years old.

These hydraulic systems are very basic and low demand on the fluid. You can spend as much as you want for peace of mind, but why?

Agreed.
Heck you could use plain ol' water if it didn't freeze.

Also make sure you're checking the level with everything retracted or you'll be over full when you do retract.

[DKRITTER]

Folks,

I know, I understand, I get it, but ...............

I just asked if anyone knew how many quarts it held.

Thank You

[NMWildcat]

Originally Posted by DKRITTER

Folks,

I know, I understand, I get it, but ...............

I just asked if anyone knew how many quarts it held.

Thank You

I've seen several different sizes of reservoirs. Mine is a gallon, my nephews is two quarts. Seems like the newer ones are smaller. I would start off with at least a gallon. Also depends on how long the coach is and how many lines there are and if you are going to bleed all the lines or just replace the reservoir fluid.

[DKRITTER]

Thanks for the help and advise, I went to Lipperts site and found 2 things of interest.

1. They say to change the fluid if it’s discolored (not red) or every 5 years.

2. The horizontal container like I have is called a 7Q so I’m assuming 7 quarts. Anyway it’s a good place to start.

[NMWildcat]

Yep, manufactures have all kinds of cya statements. Kind of like the recent brake fluid change suggestions

[mbbutler]

Turkey baster

[Daddystribe]

I've read a lot of replies about why change your fluids. Well I can tell you from knowledge that over time fluids will break down and retain some moisture. Not as much as your transmission or engine if it's for your slides and rams, but a little pm will help keep bigger problems from happening. And remember that heat will expand fluid so if you fill to near the top when cool, when it heats up it could become overfilled. A.S.E.master certified as well as certifiable.

[mbbutler]

Originally Posted by dalford

I assume all your slides are in and your level up rams are retracted?

Better be! [emoji16][emoji16][emoji16]