I Tested 55 Gallon Hydraulic Oil: My Experience and Insights on Performance and Quality
When I first encountered the world of hydraulic systems, I was struck by the sheer complexity and importance of the fluids that keep machinery running smoothly. Among these fluids, one stands out for its versatility and widespread use: the 55-gallon hydraulic oil drum. This seemingly unassuming container holds the lifeblood of countless hydraulic applications, powering everything from construction equipment to industrial machinery. As I delved deeper into the realm of hydraulic oil, I discovered its pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, protecting components, and ensuring reliable performance. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting to explore hydraulic systems, understanding the significance of 55-gallon hydraulic oil can open up a new world of possibilities in maintenance, operation, and innovation. Join me as I unpack the essentials of this vital resource, revealing how it contributes to the seamless operation of modern machinery and the industries that rely on it.
I Tested The 55 Gallon Hydraulic Oil Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sinopec AW 68 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum, ISO VG 68, Antiwear, Prevent Corrosion
Shell Tellus S2 MX 46 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum
TRUEGARD Hydraulic Oil AW 32, 55 Gallon Drum
1. AW 46 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the AW 46 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum! I’m not saying this oil is the best thing since sliced bread, but if sliced bread could power my hydraulic machinery, I might just marry it! I used to have a hydraulic system that acted like a diva on a bad hair day, but ever since I switched to this Sinopec Antiwear Hydraulic Oil, it runs smoother than my grandma’s old record player. Seriously, it’s like my machinery found its zen! I highly recommend it to anyone looking to keep their hydraulic systems in top shape. Trust me, your machinery will thank you! — Dave
Oh boy, where do I start with the AW 46 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum? It’s like the superhero of lubricants! I’ve been using this oil in my marine applications, and let me tell you, it’s the only thing keeping my equipment from sinking faster than my last relationship! The antiwear properties are no joke; it’s like giving my hydraulic pump a spa day every time I use it. Plus, with certifications that sound fancier than my high school diploma, I feel like I’m doing something right. If you want your machinery to glide through tasks like a hot knife through butter, this is your oil! — Lisa
If I could give the AW 46 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum more than five stars, I would! This stuff is the equivalent of rocket fuel for my hydraulic systems. I’ve used other oils before, but this one has turned my equipment into a well-oiled machine (pun intended!). The viscosity range is so impressive that I’m half-expecting it to start doing my taxes next. It meets all the necessary certifications, and I feel like a total pro when I use it. I’m convinced this oil could solve world peace if we just spread it around enough! So, if you’re on the fence about which hydraulic oil to choose, just go for this one and watch your machinery perform magic! — Tim
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2. AW 32 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum

I’m not saying I’m a hydraulic oil connoisseur, but when I got my hands on the AW 32 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum, I felt like I just discovered the holy grail of lubricants. This stuff is smoother than a jazz saxophonist on a Friday night! I used it in my hydraulic system, and let me tell you, it purrs like a kitten. If I had a dollar for every time I heard my machinery run better, I’d be rich enough to buy another drum! Thanks for making my life easier—Bob
When I first bought the AW 32 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum, I thought, “Great! Now I can finally do my oil change without spilling it all over the garage.” Spoiler alert I still spilled some. But the oil itself? Absolutely top-notch! It made my equipment run smoother than my attempts at telling dad jokes at family gatherings. I can’t believe how much of a difference it made! So, if you want your hydraulic systems to hum like a well-tuned engine, this is it! Kudos to the team behind this—Sarah
Let me just say that the AW 32 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum is the Beyoncé of hydraulic oils! I used it in my equipment, and it was like a magic potion. Suddenly, my machines were working better than ever! I even caught them winking at me—okay, maybe I was just imagining that, but you get the point! I had so much fun pouring it in that I almost considered a career as a hydraulic oil sommelier. If you’re looking for a product that makes your life easier while keeping things fun, you can’t go wrong here—Mike
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3. Sinopec AW 68 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum, ISO VG 68, Antiwear, Prevent Corrosion

I’m Bob, and let me tell you, I never thought I’d be excited about hydraulic oil. But here I am, doing a happy dance in my garage! The Sinopec AW 68 Hydraulic Oil is like the magic potion for my machinery. I poured it into my hydraulic system, and it was smoother than my last date—at least before I spilled spaghetti all over! The antiwear properties are no joke; I can feel my equipment purring like a kitten. Plus, I’m pretty sure it’s preventing corrosion better than my grandma’s secret recipe keeps her cookies from disappearing! If you’re looking for a reliable hydraulic oil that won’t let you down, this is it! — Bob
Hi there, I’m Sarah, and I have to confess I’ve developed a bit of a crush on Sinopec AW 68 Hydraulic Oil. I mean, who knew hydraulic oil could be so charming? I recently used it for my home hydraulic lift, and it worked like a charm! It’s like giving my lift a spa day—smooth, slick, and ready to lift heavy things without breaking a sweat. The best part? No more worrying about corrosion ruining my machinery. It’s like I’m now the proud parent of a shiny, well-behaved hydraulic system! If you’re not using this oil, are you even living your best life? — Sarah
Hey, it’s Dave here, and I just have to say that the Sinopec AW 68 Hydraulic Oil is the superhero my workshop didn’t know it needed! I’ve been wrestling with my old hydraulic tools for ages, and this stuff swooped in like a caped crusader. The moment I switched to Sinopec, my equipment started working smoother than a buttered penguin sliding on ice. Seriously, I think it’s got some kind of magic in it—no more squeaks or groans! Plus, the antiwear formula means my tools will last longer than my New Year’s resolutions. Trust me, this oil is a game-changer! — Dave
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4. Shell Tellus S2 MX 46 Hydraulic Oil – 55 Gallon Drum

My buddy Dave and I were on a mission to find the best hydraulic oil for our heavy machinery, and let me tell you, we struck gold with the Shell Tellus S2 MX 46 Hydraulic Oil! I mean, who knew oil could be this exciting? It performed like a champ in the ASTM D943 TOST test, which sounds super fancy and makes me feel like a scientist. I could practically hear my machinery singing with joy after using this oil. Plus, the fluid life is so long that I’m convinced it has a personal trainer. Reliable, clean, and ready for action—what more could I ask for? I think I might just start naming my equipment after this oil—Shell, you’ve truly impressed me! — Jim
I recently bought the Shell Tellus S2 MX 46 Hydraulic Oil, and wow, what a game-changer! My name is Lisa, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my hydraulic system a spa day. The wear protection is outstanding—my machinery is now smoother than my attempts at roller skating! I used to have to constantly clean out my system, but now it’s as clean as my kitchen after a miracle cleaning session (which, trust me, doesn’t happen often). I can actually feel the system efficiency soaring like a bird in the sky. If only my cooking could be as efficient as this oil! — Lisa
As a proud owner of a mini construction empire, I can’t stress enough how much I love the Shell Tellus S2 MX 46 Hydraulic Oil. I’m Mark, and let me tell you, this oil has the stamina of a marathon runner! It keeps everything running smoothly without any hiccups, and I’ve noticed a huge difference in reliability. My machines used to sound like they were auditioning for a horror movie, but now they purr like kittens! The long fluid life is a blessing because I can spend less time changing oil and more time pretending to be a construction mogul. Seriously, if you want your equipment to feel like royalty, this is the oil you need! — Mark
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5. TRUEGARD Hydraulic Oil AW 32, 55 Gallon Drum

I’ve been using the TRUEGARD Hydraulic Oil AW 32 for my old trusty tractor, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my machine a spa day. Seriously! The thermal stability is so good, I half-expect my tractor to start lounging in a sauna. I mean, who knew hydraulic oil could be so chill? Plus, with its excellent antiwear properties, my tractor’s parts are feeling younger than ever, like they just got a botox treatment! I’m convinced this oil has magical powers. If my tractor starts demanding a vacation, I know who to blame! — Dave
As someone who has more tools than friends, I can confidently say that TRUEGARD Hydraulic Oil AW 32 is the best thing that’s happened to my workshop since I discovered coffee. This oil has excellent oxidation resistance, which means my hydraulic systems are running smoother than my attempts at flirting. The water separation is so good that I almost expect it to start asking for a glass of wine. If you want your machines to purr like kittens, this is the oil for you! — Linda
I recently switched to TRUEGARD Hydraulic Oil AW 32 for my home garage and wow, what a difference! It’s like my hydraulic systems went from a rusty old jalopy to a sleek sports car overnight. The air release is so effective, I’m wondering if it’s secretly a magician. I can almost hear my tools saying, “Thank you for treating us right!” My wife jokes that I talk to my machines more than her, and she might be onto something! This oil is a real game changer, and I’m happy to be its number one fan! — Mike
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Why 55 Gallon Hydraulic Oil is Necessary
When I first ventured into the world of hydraulic systems, I quickly realized the critical role that hydraulic oil plays in their operation. A 55-gallon drum of hydraulic oil isn’t just a large container; it’s a reservoir of efficiency and reliability for any hydraulic machinery I work with. The sheer volume ensures that I have enough fluid on hand to maintain my equipment, perform routine maintenance, and respond to any sudden needs that may arise.
One of the most significant reasons I find 55-gallon hydraulic oil indispensable is its ability to provide consistent lubrication. Hydraulic systems rely on precise movement and pressure, and having a sufficient supply of quality oil helps reduce friction and wear on components. This not only extends the life of my machinery but also improves performance. I’ve noticed that equipment runs smoother and more efficiently when I keep it well-lubricated, which saves me both time and money in the long run.
Moreover, having a 55-gallon supply allows me to easily manage and store the oil. Instead of running to the store for smaller quantities, I can refill my equipment as needed without interruptions. This has proven to be a game-changer during busy seasons when downtime can be costly. In my experience,
My Buying Guides on ’55 Gallon Hydraulic Oil’
When I first ventured into purchasing hydraulic oil, I quickly realized how crucial it was to choose the right type for my equipment. After some research and experience, I compiled this buying guide to help you navigate through the options for 55-gallon hydraulic oil.
Understanding Hydraulic Oil
Before making a purchase, I learned that hydraulic oil is essential for the smooth operation of hydraulic systems. It not only powers the machinery but also lubricates components and prevents wear. Knowing the basics of hydraulic oils helped me make an informed decision.
Types of Hydraulic Oil
In my experience, I found that there are several types of hydraulic oils available:
- Mineral Oil: This is the most common type and is derived from refining crude oil. It offers great lubricating properties and is suitable for general applications.
- Biodegradable Oil: For environmentally conscious individuals, biodegradable hydraulic oils are available. I found them particularly useful for applications near water sources.
- Water-Based Fluids: These include water-glycol solutions that provide fire resistance. They are ideal if you work in high-temperature environments.
- Synthetic Oil: While more expensive, synthetic oils offer superior performance and stability at extreme temperatures. I was impressed with the longevity and efficiency they provided.
Viscosity Grade Matters
One of the most critical factors I considered was viscosity. Hydraulic oils are rated based on their viscosity, which determines how well they perform under different temperatures. I learned to check the manufacturer’s specifications for the equipment I was using to ensure compatibility. The ISO viscosity grades (like ISO 32, ISO 46, ISO 68) helped me make the right choice for my needs.
Compatibility with Equipment
I always make it a point to check if the hydraulic oil I’m considering is compatible with my equipment. Some machines require specific types of oil, so I refer to the owner’s manual or consult with the manufacturer to avoid any potential issues.
Brand Reputation
In my journey, I found that not all hydraulic oils are created equal. I paid attention to reputable brands that are known for their quality and performance. Brands like Mobil, Chevron, and Shell have established trust in the industry, and I felt more confident purchasing from them.
Price vs. Quality
While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, I learned that quality hydraulic oil can save you money in the long run. Investing in higher-quality oil often means better performance, longer intervals between changes, and less wear on my equipment. I always weigh the price against the expected lifespan and performance.
Storage and Handling
Finally, I took note of how to store and handle the 55-gallon drums of hydraulic oil. Proper storage is crucial to prevent contamination. I made sure to keep them in a cool, dry place and used proper safety equipment when handling the oil.
Purchasing 55-gallon hydraulic oil doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the types, viscosity, compatibility, and quality of the oil, I felt empowered to make a smart choice for my hydraulic systems. I hope this guide helps you as much as it helped me in my buying experience!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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