hydraulic oil, iso68 vs 10w30/40 vs 20wX ?

[tech.35058]

in another thread, I see substitution of 10w30 motor oil suggested as a replacement for iso68. I really try to "use the right stuff" but the iso stuff is kind of obscure yet, ( & there fore "special", so pricier here) Is the iso68 "better" or is the commonly available motor oil an "upgrade"? If mixed, is there a compatibility issue? . My LX865 specifies "(10w40 motor oil)" in the hydraulics tank. My Mertz/Boxer specifies Dexron in early s/n, but ISO68 in the higher s/n, with the caution not to mix the two as it will damage the machine. ( so if I switch aux hyd attachments, I really need to flush each time? ) currently, I can purchase the iso68 oil at around $22/gallon in the 2 gallon jug locally, 10w40 is about $11/gallon in 5 gallon pail. I find where I can order ISO68 on internet (Ebay) roughly $12/gallon in 5 gallon pail. . . Since neither of these machines have "wet brakes" ( Well the 865 might, but it specifies plain motor oil) that is not an issue here. Has any one looked at the specs on this issue? Thanks, CE

 

[Tazza]

Some people don't like using motor oils as they have additives. I peronally still run motor oil without issues. If you can't get ISO 68, i'd look at AW68 or something around that weight.
Everyone have their own ideas on oils, i for one just use whatever is the right weight for the tempreatures it will run in and what is a good price.
15 odd years ago, there was a sale on 20W50, i bought up about 300 litres of it in 5 litre bottles. I have used all but one bottle of it.