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Do Oil Temp./level Dipstick Gauges Work?

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Old May 25, 2009 | 04:17 PM
  #1  
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Default Do Oil Temp./level Dipstick Gauges Work?

I’m considering an “Oil Level & Temperature Dipstick w/lighted LCD Readout” for my TG and wondering if they really work and worth the money (140 Harley dollars)?

Jim
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 04:27 PM
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Mine always reads "high oil" and the temp is 250+ most of the time, so I would say nope, they aren't worth it.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 04:36 PM
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The dial type (if they offer them for your model) are very accurate. They are nothing more than a bi-metal thermometer in a special housing to work in the fill spout. Same type as used by inspectors in food service, HVAC and other services. Digital ones are a bit querky and horribly overpriced. Go with genuine HD. The cheaper ones aren't much less dollar-wise, and they are bad to fog, if not outright fill up with water even from a wash job.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 05:02 PM
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I have heard of quite a few problems with the digital ones so I got the analog one and it works great and no leaks.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 05:03 PM
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I have a plain, mechanical dial type from H-D that cost only $45. Looks good, doesn't leak, and seems to work (although I've never tested it against a calibrated thermometer). If they offer a mechanical (non-LCD) type for your bike I'd go for that one...I'm not a great believer in electronic gadgets on bikes other than my ECM, which I have no choice but to have.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 05:32 PM
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Originally Posted by HOTLAP
I have heard of quite a few problems with the digital ones so I got the analog one and it works great and no leaks.
+1 - The analog units work well, lots of complaints with the digital.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 05:34 PM
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Default LCD oil temp

Don’t waste your money on a digital one. Mine says my oil temp is 800 degrees. if you want one just get the other kind. I don't have one now because the only thing it does is make you worry about your oil temperature.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 05:45 PM
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My digital is a yr old and works fine.
 
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Old May 25, 2009 | 05:57 PM
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The digitals have a bad rep. The HD dial style has worked well on 2 bikes.
 
Old May 25, 2009 | 06:00 PM
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Originally Posted by nytryder
My digital is a yr old and works fine.
mine too! got one on my '02 RKC..been working fine without issues. got a "spare" one available for sale cheap! TheJimer, sent you a PM
 



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