i know this prob has been asked 100 times before but what type of oil should i be using for my ironhead?

 

You'll probably get as many different answers as posts, but here's my take: If it's cold most of the time, like below the mid 50's, I'd run 20w50. If it's warmer than that, I'd run straight 50wt or 60wt. I have mixed 20w50 and 60wt when the temps were in both extremes, but I'm not sure how much good that does. Basically you want to use the thickest oil that's suitable for the air temps you'll be encountering. Too thick, and your bike won't want to turn over when cold and the lubrication will be marginal 'till the oil warms up. Too thin, and your motor will run hot and be more noisy, which is probably an indication of excess wear occurring. Also, your best bet is to use a petroleum-based oil (not synthetic) that's made specifically for Harleys.

 

i run straight 50 or 60 wt. way to noisy with 20-50

 

If temp is mainly under 90F I'd run 20W-50

 

Mine has had nothing but Pennzoil 20w-50 in it for the past 30 years.

 

Thanks for the help.

 

I run whatever I have in my Truck. Recycle from Truck to Motorcycle to Lawn tractor. I wouldn't put used oil in my chainsaw, a man has to have principals.

Pat

 

You aren't serious, used oil on ironhead.... why you don't just pour sand in oil tank ? it's much easier way to destroy your engine. Oil isn't so expensive that you can't buy it, if you can't afford it sell your bike.

 

He may not be serious, but we do use "used" oil in our tractors. My dad's work place has an extremely large Cat diesel generator that gets ran 20 minutes or so a week for testing. Other than that, it is never used. It gets oil changes a couple of times a year. The oil that comes out looks like new. My dad brings it home in 50 gallon drums. We have had our 1973 and 1981 Ford tractors since new. They both are running just fine on "used" oil.

 

It was done in fun. I almost never get "smart" in the forum but the oil questions brings it out.

Sorry if I cause caused any members of PETI undue duress.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Ironheads.

Pat