What Kind of Fluid Goes in a Pallet Jack?

Pallet jacks are simple tools that help in loading and transporting of wooden pallets, hence the name pallet jack. They work with the help of a hydraulic system in which the hydraulic fluid provide the pressure needed to lift the fork.

Since its basic working principle is based on the Hydraulic fluid pressure it is necessary to check on the hydraulic fluid and ensure that the one we are using is of the recommended type/viscosity/density etc.

A pallet truck/jack is recommended to use a hydraulic oil of viscosity 30cSt at 40°C. If an oil with different viscosity used, one might find it difficult to pump the pallet truck’s handle.

After you have the recommended fluid in your hand you can fill the hydraulic reservoir by following the steps (already mentioned in the article titled “Where do you put hydraulic fluid in a pallet jack”.

• To begin with, lower the forks of the pallet jack using the lever present in the handle.
• Remove the fill plug that is present in the sides of the reservoir if the hydraulic pump unit (located at the base of the handle) along with the washer.
• Check the level of the hydraulic fluid. The oil should be close to the opening of the fill plug. While checking note the color of the oil because if it appears milky that indicates that the oil is contaminated. If so, please drain the reservoir and fill it up with new oil.
• Add the hydraulic fluid to the fill hole of the hydraulic reservoir. While filling please make sure to check the fluid level.
• Also remember to pump the jack handle 10 to 15 times to bleed out any air trapped in the pump reservoir.
• After filling the fluid to the destined level by repeating the steps 4 and 5 close. Return the fill plug and washer to its place. Wipe any excess fluid, if present, with an old cloth.
• Don’t forget to make sure everything is screwed up tightly before one start using the pallet jack again.