alternative fluids for AHC system

[uHu]

I would not use brake fluid in AHC system. It may damage all rubber seals and plastic.

If you must, test brake fluid with one of the AHC rubber O-rings (new OEM) first. One could simple place o-ring and brake fluid in sealed container, and let soak (the longer the better) for say a week. Then match up to a new o-ring. Any distortion, change in feel, color, flex, etc. do not use.

If it does not damage rubber or plastic and used in the AHC system. You'll likely need to flush very very often. As the moisture will likely build-up very very fast in the brake fluid.

Brake fluid definitely destroys the membranes in the globes. I found out the hard way, after listening to the parts guy at a small town Toyota dealer claiming that it was perfectly OK to use brake fluid to top up the AHC. It took 3 years for the brake fluid to work it's way down to the globes in a high enough concentration, but then it went fast. 4 graduations on the globes test on a 3 year old 100.

 

[medtro]

I just came across this thread and after having AHC issues with a leaking line I to had a long chat with Keith. One of my take aways from that was to use DexronVI for a number of reasons that he seemed quite knowledgeable about.

I didn't buy anything from him, just got some knowledge on the whole system. I replaced a bunch of lines proactively and the system is filled with Dexron VI. So far all is well. I'll be the first to comment if there is an issue.

Are you still running Dexron VI in your AHC? Any problem or improvement with Dexron VI in it?

 

[1mtomselleck]

I just bought a couple 2.5 liter cans here in British Columbia. Can't be shipped from the US so had to go to the dealer. $112 per can...

A more available alternative would be really great.

 

[Sylvain TH]

Greeting everyone, after read everything here and made my own research i came into a conclusion that the best suitable replacement fluid for AHC system is an Hydrolic oil AW ISO 10. Same viscosity and property than the Toyota AHC fluid.
There some spec sheet.

https://www.catalyslubricants.ca/sites/default/files/import/pdfs/Hydraulique_ISO_AW_FR16.pdf

 

[Sylvain TH]

Greeting everyone, after read everything here and made my own research i came into a conclusion that the best suitable replacement fluid for AHC system is an Hydrolic oil AW ISO 10. Same viscosity and property than the Toyota AHC fluid.
There some spec sheet.

https://www.catalyslubricants.ca/sites/default/files/import/pdfs/Hydraulique_ISO_AW_FR16.pdf

Also this spec sheet can do the job but not sure if this will do damage to the seals.

https://msds.uapinc.com/msds/PDF/FICHES/ASF01-077%20Clear%20AW%2010%20hydraulic%20oil%20ANG.pdf

 

[Sylvain TH]

Also this spec sheet can do the job but not sure if this will do damage to the seals.

https://msds.uapinc.com/msds/PDF/FICHES/ASF01-077%20Clear%20AW%2010%20hydraulic%20oil%20ANG.pdf

One of my supplier also offer me this Amsoil product as replacement. Amsoil shock Therapy #5. Not exactly the same grade viscosity oil but close enough i think.

https://amsoilcontent.com/ams/lit/databulletins/g1663.pdf

 

[Jasoncp4]

Just changed my AHC fluid, $38 for the 2.5L metal can. Dealer had to wipe all the dust off it, been sitting there forever and wanted it gone. Lee Toyota in Topsham, ME has one more if anyone wants to call get it.

 

[roadsalt]

Threads pretty old, anyone find a functional cheap AHC fluid replacement? I’m going to take the AHC system on one last ride to get it deleted. Don’t care about longevity, just don’t want to ride on bump stops to the shop.

 

[uHu]

Threads pretty old, anyone find a functional cheap AHC fluid replacement? I’m going to take the AHC system on one last ride to get it deleted. Don’t care about longevity, just don’t want to ride on bump stops to the shop.

Then any hydraulic fluid will do, or a brake fluid. It will kill rubber parts, but that will take a month or more, so you'll be ok.

 

[peneumbra2]

Then any hydraulic fluid will do, or a brake fluid. It will kill rubber parts, but that will take a month or more, so you'll be ok.

Maple syrup.
But only high quality maple syrup.

 

[Jcreme]

I agree. For just moving the vehicle, to the shop to remove the system, I'd use AT fluid. It's easier to clean up and it's cheaper.

Respectful to your decision to remove it, but to the internet at large I want to say: getting the system working well is not more expensive than aftermarket suspension and well worth the effort. Mechanics who say it's overcomplicated and not worth it are mechanics who are afraid of it.

 

[roadsalt]

Brake fluid working. Thanks.

Meanwhile I’d like to keep the AHC, but the lines are rotted. Would be a fortune.

 

[Coin]

 

[Joe T]

One of my supplier also offer me this Amsoil product as replacement. Amsoil shock Therapy #5. Not exactly the same grade viscosity oil but close enough i think.

https://amsoilcontent.com/ams/lit/databulletins/g1663.pdf

Have you tried the Amsoil product?