Hi everyone, I havent posted in a while. I am due to change the oil and filter on my 2002 XLH. Any recommendations as to which oil would be the best to use? I don't know what oil is in it now because I bought the bike just after the last service, and the person from whom I bought it from, didn't know what oil was used. By the way, the bike has 11000 miles on it if that makes any difference to the choice of oil to be used. Thanks for any help.

 

Lots of info on that topic here

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/oil-a...ted-topics-30/

 

RedLine oil, and use a K&N filter. Best combo ever (and easier on/off of the filter, too!).

 

Oil recommend a service manual.

 

Bought the bike used and the prior owner didn't have the manuel. Thats why I am asking for recommendations here. I know the new bikes, (at least my Dads & brothers) use synthetic oil. Mine is an 02, and I wanted to know if I should use synthetic oil, or convential motor oil. And, what grade of oil is best? Such as 5W30, 10W40, or whatever?

 

I used HD synthetic in my '02 and had no problems. Does the guy you got the bike from remember where he had it serviced? Might be able to give them a call and ask.

 

Just grab a five quart jug of the Mobil-1 20W50 from Wallyworld for like $20 or $25, or any other 20W50 oil you like, and an HD filter from the dealer. It's fine, and you will not need all of it. Put four onces in the filter to wet the filter media, and throw about 2.5 quarts in the oil bag. Also grab a quart of 75W90 gear oil and switch out you primary fluid since the bikes at 11K and since you're not sure what oil is in it/what services were actually performed. Primary fluid change was due at 10K.

 

Here we go..

 

I use Amsoil 20w50 and an Amsoil filter. My bike runs at 140°-150° now. It was 190°-200° before.

 

Your temp guage must be wayyyyy off..
Sportsters are designed to run around 230 degree's.
I've look at dozens of Oil temp guages,,,more than dozens,, so many
I decided not to buy a guage because they all said the same thing.

The range was almost always 210-220 on bikes running roach oil
and 190-200 on bikes running synthetics..

These bikes at Superslab speeds were prolly at 250 and 240 respectivly.
Thats well within safe limits.

Oil needs to reach 212 to burn off condensation,,
Water must go to vapor to get out through the crankcase vents
or the combustion chamber.

All engines need to reach design operating temps for efficiancy and longevity.

Check that temp guage in a pot of boiling water,,cause water boils at a specific temp,,at sea level.
212 degree's