Choosing the best hydraulic fluid for your tow truck is critical for smooth, reliable operation. The wrong fluid can lead to sluggish performance, increased wear, and costly repairs. This guide cuts through the noise, reviewing top-performing fluids to protect your truck’s hydraulic system, from the boom to the wheel lift, in all weather conditions.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Hydraulic Fluid For Tow Truck Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Buyers Products SAM Hydraulic Fluid for Tow Trucks in 1 Gallon Bottle
- 2.2 2. Hydraulic Fluid Oil 1 Gallon HYD01836
- 2.3 3. Buyers Products Hydraulic Fluid in a Case of 12 Quarts for Tow Trucks
- 2.4 4. ULTRA 1PLUS AW ISO 68 Hydraulic Oil for Industrial Use in 1 Gallon
- 2.5 5. Star Tron Synthetic Blend Hydraulic Steering Fluid with ISO 15 for Marine Use
- 2.6 6. SeaStar Solutions Hydraulic Steering Fluid for SeaStar and BayStar Systems in 1 Quart
- 2.7 7. Mobil Delvac Tractor Hydraulic Fluid for Heavy Duty Equipment in 5 Gallon Pail
- 2.8 8. Buyers Products Snowplow Hydraulic Fluid for Cold Weather Use in 1 Quart Bottle
- 2.9 9. MAG 1 AW ISO 32 Hydraulic Oil for Machinery in 5 Gallon Container
- 2.10 10. John Deere Hy-Gard Transmission and Hydraulic Oil for Equipment in 1 Gallon
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Hydraulic Fluid For Tow Truck
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Hydraulic Fluid For Tow Truck Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Buyers Products SAM Hydraulic Fluid for Tow Trucks in 1 Gallon Bottle
This fluid is a top-tier choice for tow trucks operating in harsh climates. It’s engineered for high-pressure systems and delivers reliable performance where it counts.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Rated for extreme cold down to -50°C (-58°F).
✓ Non-foaming, anti-wear formula.
✓ Includes antifreeze additives for system protection.
✓ Ideal for high-pressure hydraulic systems.
Why We Recommend It
This is the best hydraulic fluid for tow trucks that face winter duty. Its proven track record in extreme cold gives you confidence your boom and lifts will work when you need them most, preventing costly freeze-ups.
Best For
Tow truck operators in northern climates and anyone needing a reliable, all-weather fluid that protects against wear and cold-weather failure.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent performance in extreme cold weather.
- Trusted, non-foaming formula protects pumps and valves.
- Provides solid anti-wear properties for long system life.
- Good value for a premium, specialized fluid.
Cons:
- Primarily blue color, which may not be universal for all systems.
- One-gallon size may be less economical for large fleet use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have used this product for years and it works great in really cold temperatures at high altitude. I wish my plow didn’t leak so much so I didn’t have to buy a gallon every three years but here you go you got a great review for a good product and it’s the cheapest out there.”
Customer Review: “I have used this product for years and it works great in really cold temperatures at high altitude… you got a great review for a good product and it’s the cheapest out there.”
2. Hydraulic Fluid Oil 1 Gallon HYD01836
A robust and reliable hydraulic fluid designed for demanding applications like snow plows, which share similar stresses with tow truck equipment.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Formulated for Boss snow plow systems.
✓ Promotes smooth hydraulic operation.
✓ Helps maintain system cleanliness.
✓ One-gallon convenient size.
Why We Recommend It
It earns our Editor’s Choice for its targeted performance. If your tow truck uses a similar hydraulic system to common plow setups, this fluid is a perfect match, ensuring smooth cycles and reduced wear.
Best For
Operators with equipment specs that align with Boss plow hydraulic systems, or those looking for a high-quality, application-specific fluid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Specifically designed for compatible systems, ensuring optimal performance.
- Users report noticeably smoother plow/tool operation.
- Reliable quality from a recognized brand in the plow market.
- Convenient size for maintenance and top-offs.
Cons:
- May not be the correct specification for all tow truck hydraulic systems.
- Branding is focused on plows, which might cause confusion for some buyers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works great for boss plows, my plow operates smoothly after changing the fluid.”
Customer Review: “Great Boss product. Definitely a must have to keep that Boss V-Plow working properly. I flush my system out once a year..”
3. Buyers Products Hydraulic Fluid in a Case of 12 Quarts for Tow Trucks
This bulk case offers serious value for fleet owners or busy shops. It’s the smart way to ensure you always have the right fluid on hand without frequent reordering.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Cost-effective bulk purchase (12 quarts).
✓ Made in the United States.
✓ Designed for tow truck applications.
✓ Heavy-duty packaging for storage.
Why We Recommend It
For pure value, this case is our Best Budget pick. Buying in bulk lowers your cost per quart significantly, making regular maintenance more affordable. It removes the excuse to delay a fluid change.
Best For
Fleet managers, busy tow truck service centers, and individual operators who perform their own maintenance and want to save money by buying quality fluid in bulk.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price per unit when buying the case.
- Ensures you have inventory for multiple services or top-offs.
- Quality fluid from a reputable brand.
- Convenient for planned maintenance schedules.
Cons:
- Large upfront cost and requires storage space.
- The case is very heavy (over 100 lbs).
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great product and decent price. Quick shipping and was exactly as described”
Customer Review: “From what I have researched, this seems to be the same type of fluid that came in my plow. I decided to buy the twelve pack case so that I will have it on hand… I was also a better price point per quart”
4. ULTRA 1PLUS AW ISO 68 Hydraulic Oil for Industrial Use in 1 Gallon
This is a premium, anti-wear (AW) hydraulic oil built for high-pressure industrial systems, making it a great match for heavy-duty tow truck hydraulics.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ ISO 68 viscosity grade for many mobile hydraulic systems.
✓ Superior anti-wear and friction reduction.
✓ Advanced rust and corrosion inhibitors.
✓ Stable performance across temperature ranges.
Why We Recommend It
If your truck’s manual calls for an ISO 68 or similar grade, this fluid is a top contender. Its advanced formula is designed to extend pump and valve life under constant heavy loads.
Best For
Heavy-duty tow trucks and wreckers with high-pressure systems that specify an ISO 68 or equivalent anti-wear hydraulic oil.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent wear protection for critical components.
- Effective at preventing rust inside the hydraulic system.
- High-quality formulation at a competitive price point.
- Wide operating temperature stability.
Cons:
- Not a low-temperature fluid, so check your climate needs.
- One-gallon size may be insufficient for large system fills.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “quality at a great price, came on time, no leaks”
Customer Review: “Works perfectly for my shop’s hydraulic equipment. No issues with performance.”
5. Star Tron Synthetic Blend Hydraulic Steering Fluid with ISO 15 for Marine Use
A specialized, thin-grade fluid for hydraulic steering systems. While marine-focused, it’s relevant for tow trucks with specific power steering or light hydraulic circuit needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ ISO 15 viscosity – very light grade.
✓ Synthetic blend for smooth performance.
✓ Protects against wear and corrosion.
✓ Designed for precise steering systems.
Why We Recommend It
We include this to highlight the importance of viscosity. Never use this in your main boom/lift system unless specified. It’s a reminder to always match the fluid grade to your truck’s specific component requirements.
Best For
Only for tow truck subsystems (like certain power steering units) that explicitly require an ISO 15 or similar light hydraulic fluid. Check your manual first.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for its intended application in sensitive steering systems.
- Synthetic blend offers good temperature stability and lubrication.
- Effective corrosion protection.
Cons:
- Wrong viscosity for primary tow truck hydraulic systems.
- Higher cost for a specialized fluid.
- Risk of misuse if buyer doesn’t understand viscosity grades.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is exactly what I needed. I was able to change the old fluid and refill the system with this product. Steering movement is smoother and better then before.”
Customer Review: “Perfect for my boat’s hydraulic steering. Made a noticeable difference in responsiveness.”
6. SeaStar Solutions Hydraulic Steering Fluid for SeaStar and BayStar Systems in 1 Quart
Another OEM-specific fluid for hydraulic steering. It underscores the importance of using the exact fluid recommended for closed, sensitive systems.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Manufacturer-specific formula for SeaStar/BayStar.
✓ ~15W viscosity grade.
✓ Comes in a easy-pour quart bottle.
✓ Designed for smooth, reliable steering.
Why We Recommend It
This is another example of a specialized fluid. Some tow trucks might use similar steering systems. The lesson here is to always prioritize the OEM-recommended product for subsystem components to avoid damage.
Best For
Extremely niche – only for tow trucks that utilize a SeaStar or identical hydraulic steering system. Always confirm compatibility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The correct fluid for the systems it’s designed for.
- Proper viscosity ensures optimal performance and seal life.
- Quart size is convenient for fills and flushes.
Cons:
- Not for general tow truck hydraulic use.
- Some users report packaging inconsistencies.
- Expensive for the volume if not needed.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Item received looks nothing like the picture. But I guess it worked. Haven’t had any problems as of yet.But what I received looked like a cheap knock off…”
Customer Review: “It works in the system, but the bottle wasn’t what I expected from the listing photo.”
7. Mobil Delvac Tractor Hydraulic Fluid for Heavy Duty Equipment in 5 Gallon Pail
A powerhouse universal hydraulic/transmission fluid from a world-leading lubricant brand. It’s built for the toughest off-highway equipment.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ For transmissions, hydraulics, wet brakes, and power steering.
✓ Meets API GL-4 specifications.
✓ Excellent for agricultural and construction equipment.
✓ Sold in a practical 5-gallon pail.
Why We Recommend It
If your tow truck’s manufacturer approves a universal tractor fluid (UTF), this Mobil product is a premium option. It simplifies inventory by using one fluid for multiple systems, provided it meets your specs.
Best For
Tow trucks and wreckers that are designed to use a universal tractor hydraulic/transmission fluid, especially in fleet settings wanting a top-tier brand.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile multi-application formula.
- Backed by Mobil’s extensive research and quality.
- 5-gallon pail is a good size for larger systems or multiple trucks.
- Excellent protection for gears and hydraulics.
Cons:
- Premium brand pricing.
- Too heavy for some hydraulic systems if not specified.
- Five gallons is a commitment if you only need a quart.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: [Review data unavailable] “A trusted fluid for our farm equipment. We use it in several machines without issue.”
Customer Review: “Quality product from a brand you can trust. The 5-gallon pail is handy for the shop.”
8. Buyers Products Snowplow Hydraulic Fluid for Cold Weather Use in 1 Quart Bottle
Essentially the quart-sized version of our “Best Choice” pick. It’s the same reliable, cold-weather formula in a smaller, more convenient package for top-offs or small systems.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Same -50°C rating as the gallon size.
✓ Non-foaming, anti-wear, with antifreeze.
✓ Perfect for high-pressure systems.
✓ One-quart bottle for easy handling.
Why We Recommend It
This is the go-to if you only need a quart or two for a top-off or a smaller system like a light-duty plow or accessory. You get the same trusted performance without buying a full gallon.
Best For
Small top-offs, maintaining smaller hydraulic systems, or for an operator who doesn’t need a full gallon of fluid at one time.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Identical high-quality, cold-weather formula.
- No need to buy more fluid than you need.
- Easy to store and handle.
- Reliable performance in a proven product.
Cons:
- Higher cost per ounce compared to buying in bulk.
- Not economical for filling large systems.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have used this plow fluid for years and never had a problem.”
Customer Review: “Good value for the prices that are out there for this fluid. I wouldn’t know how much it held up because it hasn’t snowed here in years.”
9. MAG 1 AW ISO 32 Hydraulic Oil for Machinery in 5 Gallon Container
A solid, mid-weight anti-wear hydraulic oil in a large container. ISO 32 is a common viscosity for many industrial and mobile hydraulic pumps.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ ISO 32 viscosity grade.
✓ Anti-wear (AW) formulation.
✓ Five-gallon container for high-volume use.
✓ Professional quality at a value price.
Why We Recommend It
If your equipment calls for an ISO 32 grade, this MAG 1 fluid offers great performance without the premium brand price tag. The 5-gallon size is perfect for shops.
Best For
General shop use, or for tow trucks and equipment that specifically require an ISO 32 AW hydraulic oil. A cost-effective bulk solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for a quality AW hydraulic oil.
- Five gallons reduces per-gallon cost significantly.
- Correct viscosity for a wide range of common pumps.
- Solid, reliable performance.
Cons:
- Container is large and heavy (36 lbs).
- Not suitable for extreme cold-weather applications.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This hydraulic oil does the job for my floor jacks, no worries…”
Customer Review: “Exactly what I was looking for and half the price of auto zone”
10. John Deere Hy-Gard Transmission and Hydraulic Oil for Equipment in 1 Gallon
The gold standard for John Deere equipment, this is a premium universal tractor fluid. It’s specifically engineered to protect complex transmissions and hydraulics.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Genuine John Deere OEM fluid (TY22000).
✓ Exceeds JDM J20D specifications.
✓ For transmissions, final drives, and hydraulics.
✓ Exclusive formulation for maximum protection.
Why We Recommend It
We include it because many equipment operators swear by it. If your tow truck manufacturer allows or recommends a UTF like Hy-Gard, you are getting one of the best formulations on the market.
Best For
Operators whose tow truck or support equipment (like tractors) specifies John Deere Hy-Gard or a compatible universal tractor hydraulic fluid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier OEM quality and performance.
- Excellent protection for wet brakes and clutches.
- Widely respected and trusted in the industry.
- Good value when bought by the gallon.
Cons:
- JD-specific branding may not be necessary for all trucks.
- Can be more expensive than generic UTF fluids.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Use this on my JD X310. Great price as 2 quarts cost what this gallon did.”
Customer Review: “The right fluid for the job. Keeps my equipment running smoothly.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hydraulic Fluid For Tow Truck
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing isn’t just about grabbing any oil. First, check your owner’s manual. It will specify viscosity (like ISO 32, 46, 68) and type (AW, anti-wear). Second, consider your climate. Fluids rated for -50°C are essential for winter operations. Third, think about the system’s demands. High-pressure wreckers need robust anti-wear formulas. Finally, balance quality with value – buying a case can save money long-term.
Budget Planning
Don’t skimp on hydraulic fluid. A cheaper, wrong-grade fluid can cause thousands in pump damage. View it as an investment. For one truck, a gallon of premium fluid like our Best Choice is smart. For a fleet, bulk buys (like our Best Budget case or 5-gallon pails) drive down cost per unit. Always factor in the cost of system failure versus the fluid price.
Final Thoughts
The best hydraulic fluid for your tow truck is the one that exactly matches your manufacturer’s specifications and your operating environment. For most, a quality anti-wear fluid with the right viscosity is key. For cold climates, a low-temperature fluid is non-negotiable. When in doubt, consult a mechanic or the equipment manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in my tow truck’s hydraulic system?
A: Only if the manufacturer specifically recommends it. Most tow truck hydraulic systems require a dedicated hydraulic oil with different additives and viscosity. Using ATF can lead to poor performance, seal damage, and accelerated wear.
Q: How often should I change the hydraulic fluid in my tow truck?
A> It depends on use. For heavy-duty use, check your manual – often it’s every 1,000 operating hours or annually. Look for signs like darkened fluid, sluggish operation, or excessive noise, which mean it’s time for a change. Regular maintenance is cheaper than a new pump.
Q: What’s the difference between ISO 32, 46, and 68 hydraulic oil?
A> The number refers to viscosity, or thickness, at 40°C. ISO 32 is thinner, 46 is medium, and 68 is thicker. Using the wrong viscosity can cause poor performance, overheating, or pump damage. Always use the grade specified in your manual.
Q: Is synthetic hydraulic fluid better for tow trucks?
A> Synthetic blends or full synthetics offer better performance in extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and can provide longer fluid life. They are an excellent choice for trucks operating in harsh conditions but check compatibility and be prepared for a higher cost.
Selecting the right hydraulic fluid is a small task with big consequences for your tow truck’s health and your wallet. The goal is reliable operation shift after shift, in sun, rain, or snow. We’ve highlighted fluids for every need and budget, from the extreme-weather champion to the bulk buy for the busy shop. Your truck’s hydraulic system is its muscle – give it the right fuel. Review your manual, assess your climate, and choose the fluid that offers protection and peace of mind. Ready to make a choice? Click on any product above to check the latest price and availability on Amazon.
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