123 oil
 

Just wondering what weight oil are you guys running for winter use . I think I have 10-30 oil in my 123 and it was turning over slow last week when I started it to plow .

This would be correct.....:ThumbsUp:

I don't have a 123 a lot of guys here use straight 30w if stored indoors and given 5 to 10 minutes to warm up. That being said, you should be just fine using 10-30 in the winter. And, btw, oil shouldn't really lead to slow cranking. Winter is hard on batteries so now would be a good time to invest in a battery tender. I got one from Farm and Fleet for $15 (something like $20 normally) on Black Friday and now if I know snow is coming, I put it on my machine the night before so I've got a good strong battery in the morning.

As far as the "K" series is concerned that is true. Other engines with an oil pump, especially larger engines, oil weight can absolutely make a difference.

This is VERY true. I agree, battery tender, or just a new battery. Lawn tractor batteries don't have a very long life expectancy. 2 years is not uncommon. I've gotten as many as 4-5, but that's about it.

Don't be afraid to switch to synthetic oil, it doesn't thicken up in the cold like regular motor oil.

10W-30 is the correct oil to use below 30 degrees. One thing you need to remember is you have hydraulic oil pump and engine oil pumping at the same time.

Synthic oil may or may not help. It could lead to oil leaking around gaskets and seals.

Best thing you could do is buy a small magnetic oil heater and stick it somewhere on you hydro trans.

My mamual trans Cubs turn over easier in the winter than my hydro IH Cub Cadet does.

I use the same oil and do the same above.

Thanks for ideas guys , didn't even think of the hydro oil. I'm thinking of getting magnetic heaters for both the engine and hydro .