It's my understanding zinc isn't needed in higher numbers every time since it fills in the microscopic chasms in the metal and stays there over time. Thoughts?

 

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Thats the case to a certain extent but in the end the ZDDP and other additives in the oils chem additive pkg are depleted as the miles add up.

Scott

 

Ok, here's a curveball (maybe): In my local Wal-Mart is a line of mostly marine oil with a brand name of "Quicksilver". They have a 4 stroke 20-50w synth that is specifically labeled for V-twin motorcycles. I wonder who makes it for them? For a cheapskate like me it's 8 bucks a quart (my WallyWorld charges 10 for Mobil1). Not enough to get me to change from Mobil but I'm curious.

 

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That oils been kicking around for quite a few yrs,but nobody(inc me) can find the mfg that supplies/packages it under quicksilver name.

Well consider this,why go for the quicksilver when you have no idea who mfg's it when you can get for example m1's v-twin syn 20w-50 that goes on sale mult times yrly at autozone/advanced auto etc for only $8.99 (approx $4 more) then quicksilver?

Also,not my 1st choice but ast least we know where it comes from that's aslo proven to be a decent oil for an air cooled HD v-twin is m1's 15w-50 nascar endorsed syn that many guys here in hdforums have been running for yrs.

That oil also has an acceptable 1300ppm zddp lvl & is reg priced @ $8.99 and even less then that when it go's on sale.(M1-20w-50 v-twin syn is 1700ppm zddp)

But,since you said the quicksilver syn 20w-50 oil your referring to is specifically marketed for 4-stroke v-twin motorcycles (have to assume its also properly formulated for air cooled v-twins too) i would think it would not cause any catistrophic (SP?) failure either.

Scott

 

Thanks Scott for the reply! I'm quite sure someone could run that Quicksilver and not encounter any problems. But I'm not in an experimental mood with my Harley. Stickin with M1 and change every 5000.

 

I agree with you.
Are you referring to Mobil 1 or Mobil 1 V-Twin??

I won't put anything other then motorcycle specific oil in my bikes.
There are probably thousands of riders that do use automotive oils in their bikes - with absolutely no problems. Good for them. I also did it back in the 70's when there really wasn't motorcycle specific oils available or even synthetic oils - other then Mobil1 and Amsoil.
For all intents and purposes oil is oil and if backed against a wall I would use any correct viscosity oil, but would change it as soon as possible.

 

>>>Are you referring to Mobil 1 or Mobil 1 V-Twin?? <<<

I was just trying to keep my post short. I use the "real" stuff!

 

 

I just bought my first Harley. A '15 Fat Bob with 0 miles on it.

Parts guy at the dealer told me I could use HD synthetic oil in all three cases.

Considering I wouldn't have to change the oil as often, that seems to be the cheapest and easiest way to go, but I see Mobil 1syn VTwin in my future.

 

Anyone that says you can use the very same oil for 3 completely different applications will also sell you a bridge.