During a pre-operational fluid check, a telehandler operator observes that the hydraulic fluid reservoir is below the 'add' mark. The fluid is clear with no signs of contamination. The manual specifies a particular ISO VG 46 hydraulic fluid. What is the correct procedure for addressing this low fluid level?

Question: During a pre-operational fluid check, a telehandler operator observes that the hydraulic fluid reservoir is below the 'add' mark. The fluid is clear with no signs of contamination. The manual specifies a particular ISO VG 46 hydraulic fluid. What is the correct procedure for addressing this low fluid level?

Answer options:

• Continue operating as long as it's not below the 'minimum' mark, monitoring for cavitation.
• Top up the reservoir immediately with any readily available hydraulic fluid to avoid downtime. ✅ Add the specified ISO VG 46 hydraulic fluid to the appropriate level and document the addition.
• Bleed the hydraulic system to reset the fluid level before adding new fluid.

Correct answer: Add the specified ISO VG 46 hydraulic fluid to the appropriate level and document the addition.

Explanation: When hydraulic fluid is low, the correct procedure is to top it up to the appropriate level using the manufacturer-specified fluid. Using an incorrect fluid type can damage the hydraulic system, and bleeding the system is unnecessary unless there's air ingress. Continuing to operate with low fluid risks component damage and reduced performance.