DeWalt hydraulic pumps

[GEugeneS]

I got a '97 Wildwood 33SS in 2000, and to far, for the $ it's been a pretty reliable rig. I just had a problem with the slide. It hesitated the last few inches of travel and it took toggling a few minutes to get the last 3 inches. I suspected it might be low on fluid as the motor continued to run, but didn't sound stressed.

On the side of the pump it says DeWalt and if low on fluid, use any ATF. I went to the Wildwood manual and it doesn't say much about the slide. I got on line and found some people saying ATF is the way to go and others not. I stuck a pen in the resevour and it's about 1/2 way down and clear. Isn't ATF red? And how much should I put in?

Any advise would be appreciated. Nice to see "we" have a forum. I have been doing repairs and mods for the last 10 years on my own.

Gary

[cfsoistman]

To check the fluid level you need to close the slide so the fluid is sent back to the reservoir. Once it's closed take off the cap. It should be about a 1/4 down from the bottom of the ring that the cap attaches to. As for the ATF that's what is commonly used in the hydraulic levelers and slides.

[Bama Rambler]

On that type of unit you're not looking for cooling or clutch operation. What you're after is non-compressibility and low viscosity. That's why they don't care which oil you use as long as it's thin. If the fluid in it is clear it's probably plain hydraulic oil and you should be able to find it at most auto parts stores. even walmart sells it around here. Just don't use brake fluid.

As cfsoistman says the slide should be in when you check the level.

[kvtaylor]

We have Lippert pumps in our Georgetown and I was also concerned with the level of fluid when I got it. I callled Lippert and the engineers said keep the tank full. Close everything, slides and jacks if you have a motorhome. Then make sure your tank shows a fluid level leaving only one inch gap off the top. He said if the fluid is low, it will get air in the pump and cause extensive wear.

[GEugeneS]

Thanks to all you who replied. The info helps me a lot. I'll keep in touch so if I can help others I will. Thanks again.