Fisher recommends changing the hydraulilc fluid in their plows yearly. I’ve got a basic heavy duty 8′ Minute Mount II. This will be it’s third season. I gave up plowing commercially about 4 or 5 years ago so all I do is my own driveway, my elderly neighbor’s driveway, and some clean up on my jobs. I’ve yet to change the fluid. When I plowed commercially, I did change it every year on my other plows.
So whaddya think? Every five years? Just keep an eye on it and top it off? I like to take care of my stuff, but I’m not looking to waste time and money either. Besides… I’m curious. Is this like adding oil to your wormdrive?
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What's the fluid look like? Milky or? I'd only be concerned if mositure or condensation was present.
Your minimal useage would justify 3 years if it was mine, 5 is too long IMO. Then again, frequency of use may also come into play.
Guess I better check it then. And if I'm going to check it I'll probably just save myself the trouble of worrying about it and go ahead and change it. Thanks.View Image
Mine gets water condensation in it every year that freezes up. PITA to get down the road to the next place and can't lift plow after first run in.
A buddy was having same problem and last year, somebody asked him, "So are you changing the filter too?"
He changed that and problem stopped. He is going to show me how to get to the filter this week. Maybe I can remember to take pictures.
Mine is a MM one.
which incidentally is a twenty minute plow unless you land it on flat crete surface, LOL
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I had a MM1 for awhile as well and thought the same thing. Minute mount my adze. The II is an improvement for sure, but it can still be a pain in the neck especially if there's a few inches of snow already on the ground when you go to hitch up.
I'd be interested in hearing more about that filter when you figure it out.View Image
I just spent the last half hour or so prowling leads from google on that.Found a parts chart that is worth having I think.
http://www.ashsupply.com/pdfs/03minute_mount1+2_system_hydraulic+electrical_poster.pdfreally big download.
The filter is part #25 on chart I think.Also found out most guys around here doing maint on these don't know squat. I have asked half a dozen places about my problem and everyone of them wanted to sell me a fluid change. Even had the problem right after a fluid cahnge and that was the diagnosis.But when I hit those websites and forums, every trouble shooting chart and experienced plow driver said same thing - that if the plow won't lift when cold either you have low on fluid or clogged filter, or water in the mix.Also, the Fischer site does recommend their ownfluid, but allows other fluid that meets specs.The important thing they caution against is mixing fluid from different makers. Some additives do not get along and can cause problems.
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
BTW, welcome back. Good to see your smiling face around here again.
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Thanks for the welcome back Paul. And the leg work on the plow 411 as well. That helps.View Image
#49 is also a suction filter, so don't overlook that one. I'd also recommend using synthetic fluid.
This is good information guys. I appreciate the help.View Image
My friend the snowplow mechanic recommends the yearly interval. He claims that Water
gets into the system and causes corrosion as well as balky solenoid function.
But he loves rebuilding the pump at $3-400.00 per unit.
Happy Plowing.
When the pumps sit without being used they can absorb moisture.Mine sat outside all summer and wasn't working yesterday when I hooked it up. I hadn't changed the fluid in a few years. I flushed the system and put new fluid in and it works like new. Only takes about 45 minutes to do all the maintenance.I think in season if the seals are all good, there is less chance of moisture getting in and being a problem, since the motor is working and the fluid is heating up. When it sits unused it is the problem time..