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Choosing the Right Hydraulic Fluid for Your Bobcat Equipment

August 19, 2025

When you're on the job, your Bobcat machine needs to perform no matter the temperature, terrain, or task. That’s why choosing the right hydraulic fluid isn’t just a detail; it’s a decision that directly impacts your uptime, efficiency, and long-term equipment health.

Whether you're operating in scorching summer heat or freezing winter conditions, Bobcat hydraulic fluids are engineered to power your machine’s critical systems and protect your investment.

Source: Bobcat Equipment

Why Use Max Performance Hydraulic Fluid?

Bobcat Max Performance Hydraulic Fluid is built for the toughest jobs and most advanced equipment. Designed to handle extreme temperatures, heavy workloads, and dirty job sites, it delivers superior flow, fast startup protection, and anti-wear chemistry that extends the life of your hydraulic system.

It’s your first line of defense against wear, contamination, and harsh operating conditions, and the only fluid approved for high-performance models like the T86 and S86. For better protection, reduced downtime, and reliable long-term performance, trust the fluid engineered specifically for Bobcat equipment.

Max Performance – Warm Climate

Ideal for machines operating in hot or high-demand environments, this fluid is formulated with a higher viscosity for maximum stability and flow in warmer climates.

Max Performance – Cool Climate

Ideal for machines operating in cooler climates, this fluid is formulated with lower viscosity for optimal flow, ensuring consistent performance.

Pro-Tip: Avoid starting your machine if hydraulic fluid temperature is below -20°F, as it can cause serious damage and may not be covered under warranty.

Proven Performance Hydraulic Fluid

Our classic, value-driven option for older or non-current Bobcat models. Dyed orange and available in limited sizes, Proven Performance fluid still meets Bobcat’s rigorous engineering standards. The Bobcat Performance Proven Hydraulic Oil (orange) is not compatible with R-Series loaders.

The Right Fluid for the Right Region

Working in the Midwest or Central U.S.?

If you operate in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, or Idaho, you're in a transitional zone that can swing between hot summers and freezing winters. It's especially important to review the Bobcat temperature chart below and select the hydraulic oil that matches the conditions in which your machine runs most frequently.

For areas like Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, where we primarily serve customers, it's common to use Cool Climate fluid in winter and Warm Climate fluid in summer, especially if your equipment is used year-round outdoors.

Bobcat’s newest R-Series loaders (S62, S64, S66, S76, S86, T62, T64, T66, T76, T86) feature advanced hydraulic systems that demand the correct fluid for optimal performance. These machines now ship from the factory filled with the appropriate hydraulic oil for their destination region.

Source: Bobcat Equipment

Need Help Choosing the Right Hydraulic Fluid?

Hydraulic fluid might not be the most visible part of your machine, but it’s one of the most important. With Bobcat hydraulic fluids, you’re getting trusted performance, system-specific protection, and peace of mind job after job.

If you’re unsure which hydraulic fluid is best for your machine or climate, our parts experts are here to help you keep your machine protected and performing its best, season after season.

Call us, stop in to any of our seven Atlas Bobcat locations, or request parts online!


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