Howdy,
I have been searching the rest of the CNCZone and other forums, for coolant suggestions and ran on to many posts recommending ATF as a cutting fluid for aluminum and steel.

Now I like that idea, since I still have an allergic reaction to using water as a cutting fluid. I have thought about kerosene but am not crazy about using a substance designed to burn, as a coolant. I'm sure an insurance agent would have a field day with that one, even if it had nothing to do with a claim.

I have also thought about just loading up water based coolant with anti-corrosion additives too. I expect there is a bit in the water based coolants, but hearing stories of rust under vises, etc, makes me think there isn't enough.

I live in a rural area, so farming fluids are available relatively cheap by the 5 gallon bucket. Lots of ATF is available. It shouldn't evaporate, and has a low enough viscosity it should pump well with the normal 1/2hp sump pump I'm thinking about.

What say yee, would automatic transmission fluid be a good alternative?

Thank you for sharing your experience.

kr