Many customers use the incorrect type of lubricating oil in lubricators that cause the polycarbonate bowls to prematurely crack. The typical air tool oil used for pneumatic air tools is not recommended for use with automotive equipment since the wear characteristics are not sufficient for component long life. This is why it is important to use the correct lubricants in the bowls.
The use of kerosene, animal or vegetable fats should be avoided for additives or cleaning agents. Also, the use of any penetrants such as WD40 should NEVER be used on any rubber seals.
SMC recommends to use an ISO VG-32 oil which is a 32 weight viscosity such as 76 multi-way HD32 and other related brands of ISO-VG 32 type.
ARO/IR recommends to use an SAE-10 non-detergent light lubricant in their bowls.
Below is a list of other lubricants that have been approved from Mac Valves:
Manufacturer Oil Number
NFO NFO 10 H/NR
NFO NFO 10 W/NR
Chevron AW10 Machine Oil
Chevron Handy Oil - 15
Exxon Teresstic 32
Mobil Mobil DTE Light
Mobil Dexron II ATF
Mobil AFT 210 Type F
Mobil DTE 13M
Mobil Almo 525
Mobil Mist Lube 24
Mobil DTE 24
Mobil Hydraulic Oil 13
Mobil Hydraulic Oil AW 32
Wolverine A-Industrial 150 R&O
Titan Type F ATF
Tital Dexron II ATF
American Industrial Oil 32
NOTE: There are a few customers that are using marvel mystery oil. This oil is formulated for automobile engines and may be a good product, however, it is devastating to rubber seals.