Manitou EMA 15, EMA 18, EMA 18 S, EMA 20, ME 315 2006 Technical Manual

If you are wrenching on a Manitou EMA 15 or any of these telehandlers – the EMA 18, EMA 18 S, EMA 20, or the ME 315 – you need the factory specs. I have seen too many guys slap on aftermarket filters and hope for the best. This Manitou EMA 15, EMA 18, EMA 18 S, EMA 20, ME 315 2006 Technical Manual – 324 pages of official OEM data – gives you the exact part numbers, fluid capacities, and torque values that keep these machines running without leaks or failures.

This is not a reprint of some generic manual. You get the original Manitou documentation, direct from the manufacturer. On page 2 you will find the complete list of packaging sizes for every fluid – from 5-liter cans to 205-liter drums. Brake fluid DOT 4, hydraulic oil ISO 68, transmission oil, and even the specific grease NLGI 2 – it is all there, with reference numbers like 3J6619 and 3J6520. No guesswork.

Consumables Specifications: Oils, Greases, and Coolants

Every fluid that goes into these machines is listed with its Manitou part number and container size. The manual breaks down engine oil (SAE 15W/40), hydraulic oil (ISO 68), transmission oil (mechanical and multifunctional), and multiple coolants rated for -25°C and -35°C protection. You also get the exact grease – NLGI 2 and the ALWRAMANITOU LP.2 – for chassis and bearings. Trying to substitute? Cross-reference at your own risk, but the factory data is here.

Does This Manual Cover All Models, Including the EMA 18 S and ME 315?

Yes, it covers the entire range: EMA 15, EMA 18, EMA 18 S, EMA 20, and the ME 315. The consumables list applies to all. Where there are model-specific differences – like hydraulic capacity between the EMA 15 and the larger EMA 20 – the manual notes it. If you work on a mixed fleet of these telehandlers, this single document replaces five separate aftermarket guides. Manual Transmission specs are included for the mechanical transmission variants.

3 Reasons to Trust OEM Documentation Over Aftermarket Data

Aftermarket manuals often round torque specs to common values or leave out critical fluid exchange intervals. Here is why the original beats them every time:

• Part number accuracy – The Manitou reference numbers (3J6541, 3J6519, etc.) match the parts bin. One call to the dealer with the right number saves you a return trip.
• Fluid compatibility – Using the wrong hydraulic oil viscosity kills seals. The manual specifies ISO 68 for the hydraulic system and the exact DOT 4 brake fluid grade.
• Torque sequences – The manual includes tightening patterns for critical fasteners, not just single values. That matters on a cylinder head or a wheel lug.

If you need additional engine-specific data, check the K-D Manitou Industrial Gas Engines Technical Manual – OEM Fluid Specs for deeper coverage of the power unit. For forklift descriptions that help identify chassis variants, the K-D Hawk Forklift Model Description is a useful companion.

Hydraulic Fluid and Transmission Oil – Factory Part Numbers

The hydraulic system on these machines runs on Manitou Hydraulic ISO 68. The manual lists it in 5-liter, 20-liter, 55-liter, and 205-liter drums. Transmission oil comes in two types: mechanical and multifunctional. Each has its own part number and packaging. Do not mix them – the manual makes the distinction clear. Page 2 of the PDF shows the full inventory. Manual Transmission guidelines apply to the mechanical gearbox models, and the ratios are included.

Get the Right Brake Fluid and Coolant Specs

Brake fluid must be DOT 4 – the manual gives the Manitou part numbers for 400 ml and 1-liter bottles. Coolant comes in two protection levels: -25°C and -35°C. Both have separate part numbers. If you work in a cold climate, you need the -35°C pre-mix. The manual also lists the engine oil as MANITOU MOTEUR PLUS SAE 15W/40, available in 5-liter and 20-liter containers. Do not guess – order the exact listed part.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this manual for the Manitou EMA 15 only?

Yes, the manual covers EMA 15 specifically along with all other models.

What is the difference between the EMA 18 and EMA 18 S in terms of fluid capacity?

The EMA 18 S has a slightly higher hydraulic system capacity – the manual lists the specific reservoir volume on the consumables chart. For the EMA 18 S you need an extra 2 liters of ISO 68 over the standard EMA 18. That difference is why you need the OEM doc.

Does this manual include wiring diagrams or only fluid specs?

While the main focus of this 2006 technical manual is consumables and routine service, it also contains the required tool lists and safety warnings for fluid changes, filter replacements, and seal repairs. Full wiring diagrams are not part of this document – that would be a separate electrical manual.

How do I know this is an original Manitou manual and not a scan of a third-party reprint?

The document is a direct factory release dated 09/06/2006 with revision codes IC 242, IC 251, and IC 332. It carries the official Manitou logo and part numbers like 3J6619 that match the current dealer catalog. No aftermarket publisher would include the precise packaging breakdown for 205-liter drums of hydraulic oil. This is the real thing.

For more advanced telehandler topics, the Manitou MT Series Technical Manual covers larger chassis with different hydraulic architectures. But for the EMA and ME 315 family, this is the document you want on your bench.

Download the Factory Manual now and stop relying on forum specs or worn-out dealer printouts. Factory data means you get the right oil in the right hole the first time.