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Machine Oil question

Posted: Wed Aug 09, 2017 5:47 pm
by mightysmurf8201
Question for the lathe gurus out there. I just got a new lathe and the manual says to use iso 68 machine oil in the gearbox. I didn't know this when I ordered it, so now I may have to wait a few days to use it if I order some. My local farm supply store carries ISO 68 hydraulic oil for much cheaper than what I can find machine oil for. Is this a viable substitute for the machine oil?

Re: Machine Oil question

Posted: Wed Aug 09, 2017 6:03 pm
by LatakiaLover
If no one here knows, ask this forum. It's serious machine guys:

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb/

Re: Machine Oil question

Posted: Wed Aug 09, 2017 7:05 pm
by oklahoma red
Mobil Vactra #2 will do just fine. Good oil for the ways also.

Re: Machine Oil question

Posted: Wed Aug 09, 2017 7:15 pm
by slowroll
I have shop full of machines and I agree with Oklahoma red. If it has no oil at all in it now and ventral not avaliable, use a light auto gearbox/differential oil.

Re: Machine Oil question

Posted: Thu Aug 10, 2017 2:12 am
by caskwith
For things like lathes specific oils don't really matter too much IMO, as long as the viscosity is about right for the job at hand it will be fine.

Re: Machine Oil question

Posted: Thu Aug 10, 2017 8:34 am
by mightysmurf8201
Thanks guys! I think the oil that the local place has will work fine.