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xs650 > > Frank-in-Bike, Non XS parts that are Interchangeable > > Front / Rear Ends and Shocks > > Changing fork oil: type and amount?


Changing fork oil: type and amount?
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scotts
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Joined: Apr 03, 2007
Posts: 689
Location: Rock Hill, SC
PostPosted: April 6, 2009, 11:47 am    Post subject: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
I've searched all over for this and I'm either overlooking it or it's just not out there...
I have two bikes in which I'd like to change the fork oil. The forks and seals are in good shape, but the oil is who-knows how old. I can find the method to change it but not WHAT oil to use or what AMOUNT.

I've never done this before and it seems straight forward, but any tips and tricks are welcome, too. The bikes are an '80 and '83 model, if that makes any difference.
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jayel
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Joined: Apr 16, 2006
Posts: 3417
Location: SE Iowa 1974 TX650A
PostPosted: April 6, 2009, 11:55 am    Post subject: Re: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
book says 155cc of 10w30, personally I use 50cc ATF + 100cc 10w30 a little softer ride for me and the ATF keeps the seals soft
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Retiredgentleman
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Joined: Mar 03, 2007
Posts: 2258
Location: Calgary, Alberta 1978 XS650 SE
PostPosted: April 6, 2009, 1:37 pm    Post subject: Re: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
I used 203 cc ( 7 oz) of 15W40 diesel. Same thing I use in my engine. I'm very happy with the front end handling now. When I used 10W, the front end was way too soft.

Seems like everyone has their favourite oil for the forks. Heck, some folks even say you should only use "fork oil" Smile
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jayel
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Joined: Apr 16, 2006
Posts: 3417
Location: SE Iowa 1974 TX650A
PostPosted: April 6, 2009, 3:11 pm    Post subject: Re: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
Retiredgentleman wrote:
. Heck, some folks even say you should only use "fork oil" Smile

next thing you know you're putting salad oil on salads Smile
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indyjay
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Joined: Feb 07, 2008
Posts: 67
PostPosted: April 13, 2009, 12:45 pm    Post subject: Re: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
I used the factory recommended amount and 10W on my SG. It is a little soft, but much more compliant than the 29 yr. old oil that was in there!

I think 15W would have been a good compromise. I see nothing wrong with using "non" fork oil, though.

If I remember right, it was like 9 bucks fo a liter!! Mad
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KYLEPRESTON
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Joined: Jul 24, 2006
Posts: 561
Location: Connecticut
PostPosted: April 13, 2009, 12:58 pm    Post subject: Re: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
Atf does not get that old fish smell fork oil does when it's been in there for years and years.

Where do they get Baby oil from?

I know it's lame

cheers
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sschering
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Joined: Aug 10, 2008
Posts: 230
Location: Kennewick, WA
PostPosted: April 13, 2009, 4:39 pm    Post subject: Re: Changing fork oil: type and amount?
My XS-400 called for 20w.. I put in 30w motor oil when I put in new seals. (I'm a big guy so extra damping would be good)

I'm happy with the results but then I don't know what or how much was in there to begin with.
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