1981 185S Oil question?

[wpginterceptor]

I have a 1981 185S... can I run synthetic oil in it??

also runs rough and has no power in the higher gears... any ideas?

[Lukeatc185]

i heard running synthetic is bad for the clutch, it slips more, (what ive been told) as for the power loss, compressoin?

[79fordblake]

I've heard the same thing that if you have an older clutch it isnt good to switch over to synthetic.

[harryredtrike]

i heard running synthetic is bad for the clutch, it slips more, (what ive been told) as for the power loss, compressoin?

noooooooo dont use it use regular 10w40.youll get no gains, and oil leaks

[joshco84]

get good honda oil for it, it is made for use in a honda engine and tranny. Motorcycle /atc engines need special additives since there is a wet clutch and tranny involved.

I know it is more expensive, but it is only one quart at a time. Do it and be thankful.

[vl5150]

Here's my experience with automobile motor oil....

I've been running Mobil 1 car 10w-50 oil from Wal Mart in my bikes for about 10 years. I change it about 2k miles.

Here's my results:
1999 KawZRX 1100- No issues in 18,000 mi
1992 Kaw Zephyr 750- No issues in 5,000 mi
1983 Hon Nighthawk 650- No issues 7,500 mi
1990 Hon CBR 1000F- No issues in 2,500 mi
2004 Suz DRZ400- No issues in 3,000 mi

My new to me 1982 ATC200 got a Mobil 1 oil change and after 5 hrs, no clutch slipping, etc to report. The four cylinders in the group all get revved over 10k RPM with no slippage or shifting problems. I've seen no leaks and the compression is good on all of the bikes. I haven't seen a downside at all. YMMV

I think using DOT 5 brake fluid will break down old seals, etc, but I've yep to see it on motor oil with bikes. The 1983 Nighthawk has hydraulic lifters and the Mobil 1 worked fine with there as well. I will continue to use it based on my experience.

[TrailerRider]

I could go either way, I have ran mobile 1 and ran honda oil from the local honda shop. My 200s has not shown any difference between the two. With that said the new x is going to run honda oil. It is like my Fords, they get Moblie and best parts available. The x is going to start it's life with me using Honda oil. The 200s is currently running the honda oil and will likely just stick with it. But in a pinch I would have no problem running mobile 1 in either bike but that's in a pinch.

[79fordblake]

I run havoline in everything. 3 trucks, 5 tractors, 3 lawnmowers and the 3wheeler never had any problems. Also use havoline to mix the gas in my weedeater and chainsaw.

Other than maybe a different brand of oil, should I put in any additives for the clutch on the 3wheeler?

[rdlsz24]

If you buy an oil designed for wet clutches you don't have to worry about it. This stuff (http://www.valvoline.com/products/consumer-products/motor-oil/motorcycle-atv-oil/15) from Valvoline is $4 a quart and has the zinc your engine needs.

Here is more: http://www.3wheelerworldforums.com/showthread.php?t=94528

Rob

[79fordblake]

Thanks Im going to pick me up some of that. Small price to pay to keep my 3 wheeler going strong. I guess this is not synthetic? Or does it matter since it is for wet clutches?

[rdlsz24]

Not synthetic

Rob

[MonroeMike]

^I use the same ATV oil as Rob.