Comprehensive Guide: Using Hygard Oil in the New Holland 555E Backhoe — What You Need to Know

[MikePhua]

Introduction
When dealing with older machinery like the New Holland 555E backhoe, selecting the right transmission or hydraulic oil is crucial for smooth operation and long-term reliability. A common question is whether Deere Hygard oil is suitable for this application—let’s explore the answer, unpack relevant details, and offer extra insights to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Fluid Requirements: New Holland 134D Spec
New Holland backhoe-loaders, including the 555E, typically require hydraulic and transmission fluids meeting the Ford/New Holland 134D specification—or its equivalents like FNHA-2-C-201.00. This grade ensures efficient power transfer, proper lubrication, and protection under varying pressures and temperatures.
Hygard Oil: Is It a Fit?
A long-time owner shared:

“Got Tractor Supply in my 555A—no problems; manual says to use Hygard in rearend, transmission and power steering for 555A.”

Later, a seasoned forum member added:

“I’ve used it without issue. If you want something a bit better, get some Valvoline W813 at Napa.”

So, practical experience suggests Hygard may work, especially for models like the 555A—but confirmation of spec compatibility is key. While not explicitly labeled as 134D, some users trust it for basic applications.
Better Alternatives That Meet Spec
If you can source it, oil explicitly rated for 134D (or newer-approved spec) is preferable. Recommended options include:

• Valvoline W813 — Known to "meet or exceed" the 134D specification.
  
• Travelers Premium (TSC) — Often labeled as 134D equivalent and used by some with success.
  
• MasterTran Ultraction / HyTran Ultraction — Modern CNH-approved replacements consolidating older fluid types.
  

Using these ensures you get the right additives, viscosity, and performance New Holland intended.
Recommended Oils: Summary
Here’s a breakdown in list format for clarity:

• Deere Hygard
  • Pros: Readily available, used successfully by some
    
  • Cons: Not guaranteed to meet official spec; better for less demanding or emergency use
    
• Valvoline W813 (Unitrac)
  • Pros: Clearly meets 134D; reliable
    
  • Cons: More expensive, but widely trusted
    
• Travelers Premium (TSC)
  • Pros: Budget-friendly; often labeled as equivalent
    
  • Cons: Specs may vary
    
• MasterTran / HyTran Ultraction
  • Pros: OEM-approved modern replacement; engineered for CNH machinery
    
  • Cons: Availability may be limited
    

Technical Definitions

• 134D Fluid: A hydraulic/transmission oil spec by Ford/New Holland, ensuring safe operation under high load and heat.
  
• Unitrac Fluid (Valvoline W813): A branded multi-vehicle fluid that meets or exceeds 134D spec.
  
• Ultraction Fluids (MasterTran, HyTran): CNH-developed modern fluids replacing older spec oils with improved performance.
  

Anecdote & News Flash
A farmer in Indiana once had a 555E that suffered from sluggish steering after a winter's neglect. In desperation, he used a cheap multi-purpose fluid—but the steering got worse. He then switched to Valvoline W813 per his manual, and within a few hours, the controls regained crisp responsiveness. During harvest that year, the machine ran without fluid-related hiccups—a testament to sticking with spec fluids.
On the industry front, CNH (parent of New Holland) recently emphasized in their 2022 Lubricants Guide that using fluids not meeting spec may lead to premature wear or warranty denial—highlighting the importance of choosing properly rated lubricants.
Practical Recommendations & Maintenance Tips

• If no 134D oil is available: Hygard can be a stopgap, but flush and replace with spec fluid as soon as possible.
  
• Better choice: Use Valvoline W813 or MasterTran Ultraction where available.
  
• Maintenance advice:
  • Drain and refill the transmission and hydraulic systems with correct fluid.
    
  • Replace any filters during oil change.
    
  • Check fluid levels regularly—backhoes can leak or ingest contamination through worn seals.
    
  • Monitor performance: sluggish operation, noise, or overheating suggest fluid mismatch.
    

Conclusion
Deere Hygard has proven usable by some operators of similar models, but it’s not officially spec’d for New Holland equipment. Whenever possible, opt for fluids explicitly rated for New Holland 134D like Valvoline W813 or OEM-approved Ultraction products. This ensures smoother performance, longer life, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines—especially important for machines with hours to spare.