If you are a DIY enthusiast or work in the mechanic industry, you know how important it is to maintain your air tools. The reason why these tools require regular maintenance is that they rely on compressed air as a power source. As such, they need lubrication to prevent friction and wear that can cause damage to the internal parts of the tool.
However, not all of us have access to air tool oil when we need it. Maybe you ran out of oil in the middle of a project, or perhaps you cannot find it in stores near you. Whatever the case may be, there are alternatives to air tool oil that you can use in a pinch. In this article, we will explore some of the best substitutes for air tool oil and how to use them properly.
What Is Air Tool Oil?
Before we dive into air tool oil substitutes, let’s first understand what air tool oil is and why it is essential for maintaining your tools.
Air tool oil is a type of lubricant specifically designed for pneumatic tools that rely on compressed air to function. It contains additives that reduce friction and wear, protect against rust and corrosion, and help dissipate heat generated by the tool’s operation. Without this lubrication, your air tools would quickly wear out or become damaged.
Most manufacturers recommend using their brand of air tool oil since it is formulated to work with their specific tools. However, other brands also make compatible oils that you can use if you cannot get hold of the manufacturer’s recommended oil.
Substitutes for Air Tool Oil
Now that we know what air tool oil is let’s explore some of the best substitutes if you cannot get hold of it.
1. Motor Oil
Motor oil is an excellent substitute for air tool oil since it has similar properties thanks to its viscosity rating and additives. You can use any type of motor oil, but it is best to use one with a high viscosity rating, such as SAE 30 or SAE 40.
To use motor oil as a substitute for air tool oil, pour a small amount into the tool’s oil reservoir and run the tool for a few minutes to distribute the oil evenly. You can also apply a few drops of motor oil directly to the tool’s moving parts to lubricate them.
2. Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Automatic transmission fluid is another option if you don’t have air tool oil on hand. It has similar properties to air tool oil thanks to its additives that reduce wear and tear and protect against rust and corrosion.
To use ATF as a substitute for air tool oil, add a small amount to the tool’s reservoir and run the tool for a few minutes to distribute the fluid evenly. Alternatively, you can apply a few drops of ATF directly to the tool’s moving parts for lubrication.
3. Cooking Oil
Believe it or not, cooking oil can also be used as an air tool oil substitute in a pinch. Vegetable oils such as canola, soybean, or corn oil have sufficient viscosity and lubricating properties to work well with pneumatic tools.
To use cooking oil as an air tool oil substitute, pour a small amount into the tool’s reservoir and run the tool for a few minutes to distribute the oil evenly. However, using cooking oil may cause your tools to emit unpleasant odors during operation.
4. 3-in-1 Oil
If you cannot find air tool oil but still want to use a purpose-made lubricant, 3-in-1 oil is an excellent alternative. It is a multi-purpose lubricant that works well with various types of machinery, including pneumatic tools.
To use 3-in-1 oil as an air tool substitute, add a few drops directly onto the moving parts of your tools or apply a small amount to the tool’s reservoir and run the tool for a few minutes to distribute it evenly.
5. WD-40
Finally, if you have nothing else on hand, WD-40 can be used as a temporary substitute for air tool oil. However, it is not recommended for long-term use since it does not have the same properties as purpose-made lubricants.
To use WD-40 as an air tool oil substitute, spray a small amount onto the moving parts of your tools or apply it to the tool’s reservoir and run the tool for a few minutes to distribute it evenly.
Conclusion
Maintaining your air tools is essential to keep them in good working condition, and regular lubrication with air tool oil is a critical part of that maintenance. However, if you cannot get hold of air tool oil when you need it, there are alternatives you can use in a pinch.
Motor oil, automatic transmission fluid, cooking oil, 3-in-1 oil, and even WD-40 can all be used as air tool oil substitutes. While these options may work temporarily, they are not ideal for long-term use since they do not have the same properties as purpose-made lubricants.
Remember that using improper lubrication or neglecting regular maintenance can cause significant damage to your tools and compromise their performance. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper care and maintenance of your pneumatic tools.
References:
1. Air Tool Oil: What It Is And Why You Need It – https://www.toolnerds.com/air-tool-oil/
2. How To Choose The Right Air Tool Lubricant – https://www.mechanicsupport.com/how-to-choose-the-right-air-tool-lubricant/
3. Alternatives to Air Tool Oil – https://www.doityourself.com/stry/alternatives-to-air-tool-oil
4. The Pros And Cons Of Using Cooking Oil As Lubricant – https://www.hunker.com/13414975/the-pros-and-cons-of-using-cooking-oil-as-lubricant
