I have a log splitter that has a Brigs 5 HP engine directly coupled to the hydraulic pump. During cold weather, the extreme drag of cold oil prevents the engine from spinning fast enough to create ignition spark and thus it won’t start. I would like to thin the hydraulic oil, and so the question is ... can I use, or mix in, a automatic transmission oil like Dextron III into the hydraulic system to thin out the oil and not cause damage to the system? Please, only persons with direct knowledge should respond.

I have a mignon hydraulic log splitter which to load on to a trailer i tied the ram to a beam in the garage. i used the ram to lift the splitter and put it on the trailer. the hydraulics seemed to work in reverse just after that. it then behaved normally for an hour before bursting the oil return hose. any ideas lease

See how Bush's Brain feels after that!