Newb Oil Question ???

[DaaBuells]

Hello All [smirk] I picked up a '04 XB12S Lightning and am getting ready for the upcoming riding season. Do i really need the 20W50 Harley oil or can i use 15W40 Diesel oil ? Thanks , Lou

 

[Buell_Cru]

I would use what is recommended for the bike or an equivalent. If your bike is under warranty and something happens the last thing you want them to do is deny the warranty from using a non spec oil. They are ok with you using the Amsoil 20/50 and some others as well. Personally I would check with the dealership and give them your reasoning for not using the Harley oil. Alot of guys here use the Harley oil and are very happy with the results. I run Amsoil 20/50 in my bike and love it.

 

[teh Nub]

Unless you are in much colder temps, i'd use 20w50 and something intended for a motorcycle. A diesel oil will work for the engine, but not optimal. However you CAN NOT use it in the tranny/clutch/primary because of the differen't friction modifiers etc and the wet clutch.
The 20w50 amsoil that I use and assume Cru is using as well can be used for both the engine and primary/tranny/clutch. It's easy to just buy one type of oil and call it a day.
I changed my engine oil to a 10w40 during the winter to help a little with the cold start up, but stuck with 20w50 in the primary/tranny/clutch.

Here is what I use - http://www.amsoil.com/storefront/mcv.aspx

 

[ophawk]

I use Mobil 1, in both the engine and primary for over 8 years of extreme climate riding, phoenix heat, and have never had an oil related failure. Mobil 1 does have a V-Twin product that many riders swear by.
Any good brand name synthetic oil will work. Always remember that the oil helps with the cooling of our bikes so use something that can withstand the rigors of that abuse.

 

[Stevenc150]

Welcome to the "Family" DaaBuells. [up] Also check out the "Buell Service Manuals" link at the top of this page. Download and save to your computer for some great DIY info. It's for Firebolts but the basics are the same for both bikes. If you'd prefer an '04 XB12S Service Manual, I have it and will e-mail it to you if you post up your e-mail address. Take care and ride safe.

 

[Buell_Cru]

In the winter here it's anywhere from 5-15 degrees and I stayed with the 20/50 Amsoil and never had a problem. In the colder temps change your oil twice as often though because you can accumulate condensation in engine oil that will break the elements down much faster leading to premature wear on your internals.

 

[DaaBuells]

Thanks all for your help so far [up] This all started by reading the shop manual ! It seamed like they were marketing the Harley Oil and then you can use a supplement diesel oil if your in a pinch on the road some where ???? So then what makes Harley oil so different or specific to a Harley motor and why such a heavy weight ? Wouldnt a heavier weight reduce Horse Power/fuel milage ? I tend not to use Synthetics cause it costs so much and i'd rather change my oil frequently(2k to 3k miles) to keep the engine clean . Last time i used 20W50 was in my '68 Goat! LOL

 

[ophawk]

The reason for the heavy weight is to keep the oil wedge between the moving parts, especially the cam and rocker bushings, and cylinder walls/pistons, not so much for the crank bearings. A lighter weight would wash out and not provide enough lubrication.

The use of synthetics, cheap insurance less likely to breakdown and coke-up, at extreme temperatures.

 

[XBen12]

so is synthetic better then?

 

[Stevenc150]

so is synthetic better then?

A definitive YES.

Edit: Unless you're breaking in a brand new motor.

 

[Buell_Cru]

Another good tip for your oil change is before you install the filter fill it with the new oil up to the bottom of the threads and then thread it on so when you first start your bike after the change there is oil right at the pump.