Hydraulic Oil for Bottle Jacks | What You Need to Know
Hydraulic Oil for Bottle Jacks: What You Need to Know Before You Lift
If your bottle jack is slow, spongy, or refuses to fully extend, it's not just 'getting old' — it probably needs hydraulic oil. But not just any oil. Using the wrong fluid can ruin seals, weaken pressure, and put your safety at risk.
Why Bottle Jacks Fail: It's Almost Always the Oil
Most jack failures come down to improper maintenance or using the wrong oil. Hydraulic jacks rely on precise fluid pressure. Anything that disrupts that — like foaming, thickened oil, or worn-out additives — causes sluggish lifting or total failure under load.
The Right Oil: ISO 32 vs ISO 46 Hydraulic Fluid
For most bottle jacks, the correct hydraulic oil is either ISO 32 or ISO 46 — depending on your climate and use case.
| Oil Grade | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 32 (AW-32) | Cold climates, indoor garages | Thinner oil, easier flow |
| ISO 46 (AW-46) | Warmer temps, heavier lifts | Preferred by pros and shops |
Does Your Jack Come Pre-Filled With Oil?
Most jacks ship with some oil, but not always a full fill — and definitely not premium-grade. If your jack feels weak out of the box, check the fluid level first.
How to Refill a Hydraulic Bottle Jack
- Lower the jack fully and remove the filler plug.
- Top up with ISO 32 or ISO 46 hydraulic oil.
- Pump the jack several times with the release valve open to purge air.
- Top off again if needed and reinstall the plug.
Why We Recommend AMSOIL Hydraulic Oil
AMSOIL ISO 46 Hydraulic Oil is engineered for high-load commercial applications. It's used in heavy-duty shops, equipment fleets, and industrial rams. It delivers:
- Longer seal life
- Reduced foam and oxidation
- Superior rust and corrosion protection
And yes — it works perfectly in bottle jacks. But we only sell it in 5-gallon (18.9L) pails.
For Fleets, Shops, and Serious DIYers Only
If you run a shop, manage a fleet, or just don't want your gear failing under a truck, one pail of AMSOIL hydraulic oil is a smart move. Most shops burn through the small bottles quickly. With a 5-gallon pail, you can service:
- Multiple jacks and rams
- Shop presses and log splitters
- Hydraulic trailers or hoists
We Only Sell Bulk – Here's Why
We don't offer 200mL bottles. No half-litres. No gimmicks. Why? Because anyone serious about proper maintenance knows that bulk hydraulic oil isn't overkill — it's preparation.
The Wrong Oil Will Cost You More Than You Think
Use ATF? Power steering fluid? Brake fluid? Expect seal failure. Expect inconsistent lifting. Expect downtime. With AMSOIL, you're getting professional-grade protection backed by one of the most trusted names in lubrication.
Buy 5 Gallons or Don't Bother
We know it sounds harsh, but we're not here to sell you a Band-Aid. We're here to provide the right solution for people who do things right the first time.
👉 Order AMSOIL ISO 46 Hydraulic Oil (5 Gal / 18.9L)
Don't need that much? That's okay. We don't sell it small.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of hydraulic oil should I use in a bottle jack?
Can I use motor oil, brake fluid, or ATF in a bottle jack?
Does AMSOIL make oil for bottle jacks?
How do I know if my jack is low on oil?
Where can I buy bulk hydraulic oil?
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