When people ask about Oil ....
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 25,310
Likes: 2,446
From: Eastern NE
I say - do what makes you feel happy (and...search function works good too). Forum members who get stressed about a new oil thread should just ignore vs. submit some type of negative reply about 1,000,000 oil threads. We all had to start somewhere & this is why these sites exist (learn & advise).
Now, with that said - the 5-micron filter (as emwolb stated) is all you need...Cheers!
Now, with that said - the 5-micron filter (as emwolb stated) is all you need...Cheers!
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 9,243
Likes: 3,266
From: west Michigan
http://www.mobil.com/USA-English/Mot...AQs.aspx#FAQs1
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 1,979
Likes: 2
From: Northern Colorado
I didn't buy my bike to save money. The bike wasn't cheap, parts aren't cheap, so why should the oil be any different? My Harley is my most prized possession and I won't skimp on things like oil or gas because they are the life blood of the beast and if that means I have to pay a little extra for the "good stuff" then so be it. JMO
Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 307
From: Houston, Texas
the harley oil filters are rated at 5 microns. a micron is a millionth of a meter. i would prefer using a longer oil filter for the older evo dynaglides, but they're rated to where they'll allow larger particles to pass, at 10 microns. i was using royal purple until they went from 7.99 a quart to 12.99 a quart. so now i'm back to using syn-3. i only wish that mobil-1 automotive was known to be appropriate in specs to use in our harleys. that would solve an issue, as i'd start changing oil out of the 5 quart jugs for a lot cheaper. as far as amzoil goes, i don't like the idea of being in need of oil when i'm in a remote area and not have access to an authorized amzoil dealer.
http://www.mobil.com/USA-English/Mot...Davidsons.aspx
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 726
Likes: 1
From: Metropolis
I used the black Harley filters didn't see the deal about having that chromed. I can hardly see them. Even with my cars I've just always used the manufacturers filter. AC/Delco on my GM automobiles and I always go to the Hyundai dealership and get "their" official Hyundai oil filter. Each to his own but just never felt right using Fram or an aftermarket oil filter. Same as others on type of oil...that's a can of worms.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
In a real-world scenario, two friends did big-bore upgrades together on 2000 EG's, one having used M1 15w50 for 60k miles and the other Amsoil 20w50 for 50k miles. Upon visual and gauge inspection of the cylinders, rocker components, and pistons, neither engine showed any measurable wear. Visually, both still had the hone marks showing on the cylinders. The M1 costs ~$4.60/qt. and the Amsoil about double that amount.
Another good aspect of using M1 is that you can find it almost anywhere. BTW, do a Google search and you'll find RP 20w50 for $6.25-$7.95/qt., and you can buy it for even less by the 5-gal. pail. My last pail cost me $120 ($6/qt.), but I'm getting it through a distributor, so retail will be somewhat higher but less than the per-quart price. There is no functional reason to buy the MaxCycle 20w50 ($14.95/qt.) or any other MC-specific oil.
Last edited by iclick; May 8, 2010 at 04:11 PM.
Road Master
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,244
Likes: 3
From: Stamford, CT
I have seen firsthand what can happen to a flat tappet cam if you aren't using the right oil.it's probably a rarity for a cam to wipe out with the wrong oil but it can happen. I'm not positive but I think the lack of zinc in today's car engine oil is only ok for a roller cam engine, which is essentially what all modern gas car engines have.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,336
Likes: 67
From: SW Minnesota
Automotive and motorcycle oils became different several years ago with the advent of Energy Conserving automotive oil.
http://www.mobil.com/USA-English/Mot...AQs.aspx#FAQs1
http://www.mobil.com/USA-English/Mot...AQs.aspx#FAQs1
See attached picture. Look at the circle on the back of each bottle. Note only the 5w30 bottle, on the left, is stated "Energy Conserving." The front of that bottle has the star burst symbol. The 15w50 does not.
Last edited by MNPGRider; May 8, 2010 at 06:58 PM. Reason: Add picture
Road Captain
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 646
Likes: 435
From: S.I.N.Y.
Can certainly understand the concern given what you read on the forums.A lot of people blow hot air about things they know nothing about.We all have our own preferences and for different reasons.My choice in lubes comes from years of experience in building engines and drivetrains,and knowing the value in my choices.Any motor vehicle will last a good long time no matter what the lube used as long as the maintainance is kept up.