Modern oil in old bike

[Guest]

My '79 GS400 manual is calling for an SAE 10w-40 SE or SD rated oil. I know you should never use an oil rated lower than what is called for but is it ok to use the current modern SN rated oils in this engine?

[chuck hahn]

Most of us here use Shell Rottella T Diesel oil in 10W40. There are many great synthetics out there that are now wet clutch safe and wont promote clutch slippage. I dont use synthetics due to the prices, and quite frankly it isnt necessary if you just change the oil and filter every 3,00 as would usually be done anyway.

[Steve]

For the most part, newer oil is better oil.

The only thing to watch for is oil that will say "Energy Conserving" in the API 'donut' on the rear panel. Fortunately, most (probably all) of the "EC" oils are 30-weight and lighter, not the 10w-40 that is recommended.

As Chuck mentioned, many of us are using Rotella oils. They are formulated for diesel engines, so are not quite so tightly regulated for the heavy-metal content that has been removed from automotive oils because they tend to clog catalytic convertors on high-mileage engines. Those heavy metals are what protects the gears in the transmission, which is lubricated by the engine oil in our bikes.

Chuck mentioned the expense of synthetic oil. Some of us don't mind it. My bikes take the full gallon that is in the jug. "Regular" Rotella (15w-40) is about $12 at Wal-Mart, the synthetic oil (5w-40) is a whopping $21. Personally, I don't mind paying the extra.

.

[chuck hahn]

That of course depends on ones money situation Steve. I am not swimming in cash after paying the bills. I get my Rottella at Oriellys when they have the 5 QT jugs on sale for $19.99. I will get one and store it till its time for one of the bikes to be serviced.

[Steve]

No problem, Chuck, and not everybody prefers synthetic.

That's why we have choices and shop accordingly.

.

[Brendan W]

Has anyone used universal tractor oil - STOU. They claim it's ok for wet brakes

[Steve]

Here, in the US of A, "tractor oil" is not commonly found in most automotive-type stores.

You have to go to a tractor specialty store, which is not commonly found in major metropolitan areas.

And, ... most of us try to keep oil away from our brakes.

.

[78550GS]

Here, in the US of A, "tractor oil" is not commonly found in most automotive-type stores.

You have to go to a tractor specialty store, which is not commonly found in major metropolitan areas.

And, ... most of us try to keep oil away from our brakes.

.

Would it be harmful to the clutch though? I have a tractor supply store near me and was wondering the same. You can buy bigger size bulk oils at the tsc near me.

[Griffin]

Would it be harmful to the clutch though? I have a tractor supply store near me and was wondering the same. You can buy bigger size bulk oils at the tsc near me.

Rural King here sells Rotella T 15W-40 in 55 gallon drums for about $9 per gallon.

If I only had a forklift at home.......

[Brendan W]

Wet brake or clutch, same issue with friction reducing additives , No?

[RichDesmond]

Any 10w-40 is going to be fine. Even the Wal-mart house brand, or what you find at a convenience store. It's all quite a bit better than what was available 30+ years ago. IMO, people waaaay overthink oil.

[Griffin]

Any 10w-40 is going to be fine. Even the Wal-mart house brand, or what you find at a convenience store. It's all quite a bit better than what was available 30+ years ago. IMO, people waaaay overthink oil.

Yeah, but Rotella T is cheaper than pretty much any automotive engine oil, even the generic store brands.

[GSXR7ED]

Oil Levels

Chuck and Steve,

I have taken your advice on the type of oil I put in my "T". I have a Walmart discount card so I go for the expensive Rotella Oil. It brought me nothing but happiness when I was riding in New Mexico. Once I find something I am comfortable with, I stick with it.



Ed

[brettule]

I ended up running this:

http://www.castrolmoto.com/au/our_oils_new/power_1_gps_4t_10w_40.php

[alke46]

That of course depends on ones money situation Steve. I am not swimming in cash after paying the bills. I get my Rottella at Oriellys when they have the 5 QT jugs on sale for $19.99. I will get one and store it till its time for one of the bikes to be serviced.

Chuck, you would be paying $4 per quart at this price. Steve says Walmart price is $12 for 1 gallon which would equate to $3 per qt.