Your Best Harley Davidson Engine Oil 101 Guide

There’s something special about the freedom that comes with owning your own Harley.

But with that freedom comes the responsibility of regular maintenance.

If you’re an informed Harley Davidson owner..

You know that there’s more to choosing the right Harley Davidson engine oil than just picking up a jug of motor oil from your local auto parts store.

In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Harley Davidson engine oil, including the differences between Harley Davidson engine oil and car motor oil.

And what to look for in a good Harley Davidson engine oil, and the differences between using wet sump or dry sump lubrication systems on your bike.

It can be tempting to think that all engine lubricants should be interchangeable—especially if they have roughly similar moving parts, right?

Wrong.

While both automobiles and motorcycles rely on rapidly moving metal components during combustion to get their forward momentum…

The design of these engines is different and therefore the lubrication requires different properties. Here are some of the key differences between car motors and motorcycle motors:

1.     Motorcycles have only one sump (or liquid collection area) whereas automobiles have multiple.

Likely part of what drew you to your motorcycle was the beautiful simplicity of its design.

Unlike a car, which has sumps for various fluids other than your Harley Davidson engine oil (like transmission fluid, for example)…

Motorcycles rely on one sump to contain a fluid that acts as an engine lubricant, primary fluid, and transmission fluid.

This means that Harley Davidson engine oil must not only lubricate the engine but cool and lubricate the gearbox and clutch as well.

2.     Motorcycles not only have just one sump, but it is much smaller than an automobile sump.

This means that there is less oil to do the same amount of work—which is why so many Harley riders recommend a full synthetic motorcycle oil.

Or at least a synthetic blend.

Likewise, the pathways the oil must flow through are significantly smaller on a motorcycle than on a car, so the oil must be able to flow through small spaces quickly.

3.     Motorcycle engines typically operate at higher speeds and temperatures than automobile motors.

What this means is that your motorcycle lubricant must do everything a car engine lubricant can do, only in more extreme conditions.

This, coupled with the fact that there’s less of it to go around due to the small size of the sump, means that you must be extra careful in selecting a motorcycle engine oil.

As it must be capable of keeping things running smoothly even in high-heat or high-friction conditions.

4.     Most motorcycles (except newer models) are air-cooled, whereas cars rely on radiators and coolant to keep the engine cool.

Because the engine is so exposed to fast-moving air on a motorcycle, the motor can rely on the air to help cool the engine rather than having a separate sump for coolant.

There are some similarities to motorcycle oil and car motor oil in that it’s better when both have additives to protect the engine from premature wear, oxidation, gunk and deposits, overheating, and friction.

So they do have some things in common.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that selecting an automotive motor oil for your motorcycle might work in a pinch.

But over time it can cause damage to your gears and result in gear failure.

With a motorcycle oil, it really is generally best to go with a full synthetic or a synthetic blend over conventional mineral oil motor oil.

As synthetics have been optimized to run on the smaller, hotter, and faster engine on your bike.

You’ll need to find a motorcycle oil that is capable of:

·      Running at a higher temperature than regular

·      Offering higher viscosity than car motor oil

·      Offering lower oil burn-off or volatility than regular motor oil

·      Reducing gunk and deposits from forming in the engine

·      Acting as a lubricant for all the moving parts on your bike, including the gearbox.

A wet sump engine relies on a larger oil pain with a single oil pump to distribute the oil.

Dry sump engines, on the other hand, tend to have shallower oil pans with sometimes more than two oil pump systems leading to a separate reservoir.

So which type of sump is on your new bike?

By and large, Harley Davidsons have dry sump engines—which is why the Harley Davidson engine oil typically can be found under the seat rather than under a spinning crank of the engine.

The benefit of the dry sump system on your bike is that it offers a higher valve area in each cylinder which allows for more air and fuel flow within the cylinder.

This means shorter strokes, which allows for higher revving, which means more torque and best of all, more power.

While a dry sump engine at a first glance might seem like a more complicated means of lubricating the engine…

The benefits of this type of sump system are part of what makes riding your Harley such an enjoyable experience.

Aside from the fun associated with higher revving and more motor power…

There are also safety benefits to these features as well, including increased maneuverability in potentially dangerous traffic situations.

Ready to have your Harley serviced or change your own Harley Davidson engine oil?

You might be wondering, how does one dispose of used Harley Davidson engine oil?

The answer to this is to pour your spent oil back into the empty oil container from your fresh oil, cap it off, and bring it with you to a service station, quick lube shop, or participating auto parts store with a motor oil collecting reservoir.

Fortunately, Harley Davidson engine oil technology has come such a long way since its “invention” in the late 1800s that we can now refine and recycle used oil so that it may be used over and over again rather than polluting the environment or ending up in a landfill.

Alright, so let’s cut to the chase—which Harley Davidson engine oil is best?

Most mechanics, motorcycle enthusiasts, and Harley dealers will recommend a full synthetic engine oil for your bike to keep things running in tip-top condition.

But if you have any doubts at all about what the best motorcycle oil is for your particular model, refer to your owner’s manual for indications of preferred weights and viscosities.

When it comes time to choose the right Harley Davidson engine oil for your next oil change…

It’s important to choose an American Automobile Association (AAA) tested brand you can trust.

AMSOIL 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil is one of the number one recommended motorcycle lubricants for Harley Davidson bikes.

Though it also works great for BMW, Ducati, and Triumph as well.

Are you ready to get the most out of your engine performance while protecting it from undue wear?

Browse the AMSOIL catalog of high-quality motorcycle-specific engine lubricants today!

Harley Davidson oil filter

Harley-Davidson motorcycles require specific oil filters designed to meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

The oil filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and performance of the engine by filtering out contaminants from the oil.

When selecting an oil filter for a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it is important to choose a filter that is compatible with the model and engine size.

Harley-Davidson offers a range of genuine oil filters designed specifically for their motorcycles.

These filters are engineered to meet the high standards and requirements set by Harley-Davidson and are recommended for optimal performance and protection.

In addition to the genuine Harley-Davidson oil filters, there are also aftermarket options available from reputable manufacturers that are designed to fit Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

These aftermarket filters are often built to the same quality standards as the OEM filters and can be a suitable alternative.

When choosing an oil filter, it is essential to ensure it has the correct thread size, seal type, and filtering capabilities required for your specific Harley-Davidson model and engine.

It is recommended to consult the motorcycle’s manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center for the exact specifications and recommendations regarding oil filters for your motorcycle.

Regularly replacing the oil filter during oil changes is an important maintenance practice to keep the engine running smoothly and to extend its lifespan.

Harley Davidson oil change kit

Harley-Davidson offers oil change kits that include all the necessary components to perform an oil change on their motorcycles.

These kits are convenient and ensure that you have everything you need in one package.

While the specific contents of the kit may vary depending on the model and engine size, a typical Harley-Davidson oil change kit may include the following components:

1. Engine Oil: The kit will contain the recommended type and quantity of engine oil suitable for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle. It is important to use the oil specified by Harley-Davidson to ensure proper lubrication and performance.
2. Oil Filter: The kit will include a genuine Harley-Davidson oil filter designed to fit your motorcycle’s specific model and engine. The oil filter is crucial for filtering out contaminants and maintaining the cleanliness of the oil.
3. O-Rings and Seals: Some oil change kits may include new O-rings or seals for the oil filter and drain plug to ensure proper sealing and prevent leaks during the oil change process.
4. Drain Plug Washer: In some cases, a new drain plug washer or gasket may be included to provide a secure seal when reinstalling the drain plug after draining the old oil.
5. Instructions: The kit may also include detailed instructions or guidelines on how to perform the oil change correctly, ensuring that you follow the proper procedure.

Harley-Davidson oil change kits are designed to make the oil change process more convenient by providing all the necessary components in one package.

Using a genuine Harley-Davidson oil change kit ensures that you are using the recommended oil and filter specifically designed for your motorcycle, promoting optimal performance and engine longevity.

It is recommended to consult your motorcycle’s manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center to ensure you select the correct oil change kit for your specific Harley-Davidson model and engine.

Harley syn3 oil specs

Harley-Davidson Syn3 oil is a synthetic blend oil specifically formulated for use in Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

It is a multi-viscosity oil that offers a balance between excellent lubrication and thermal stability, providing optimal performance and protection for Harley-Davidson engines.

Here are some specifications and features of Harley-Davidson Syn3 oil:

1. Viscosity: Syn3 oil is available in various viscosity grades, including 20W-50 and 10W-40. The specific viscosity grade recommended for your Harley-Davidson model can be found in the motorcycle’s manual or by consulting a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center.
2. Synthetic Blend: Syn3 oil is a synthetic blend, meaning it combines both synthetic and conventional base oils. This blend offers the benefits of synthetic oil, such as improved lubrication and thermal stability, while maintaining affordability.
3. Engine Protection: Harley-Davidson Syn3 oil is designed to provide excellent engine protection, reducing wear, and extending the life of critical engine components. It offers enhanced protection against high-temperature deposits and sludge formation, ensuring a cleaner and more efficient engine operation.
4. Compatibility: Syn3 oil is compatible with both air-cooled and liquid-cooled Harley-Davidson engines. It meets the stringent requirements set by Harley-Davidson and is recommended for use in their motorcycles.
5. Multi-Purpose: Syn3 oil is suitable for use in the engine, primary chaincase, and transmission of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, offering convenience by eliminating the need for multiple oils in these areas.
6. Officially Approved: Harley-Davidson Syn3 oil is the only oil officially approved by Harley-Davidson for use in their motorcycles. It meets the performance standards and specifications set by the manufacturer, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.

It is important to follow the recommended oil change intervals and specifications provided by Harley-Davidson for your specific model.

Consult your motorcycle’s manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center for precise information regarding the use of Harley-Davidson Syn3 oil in your motorcycle.

Who makes Harley syn3 oil

Harley-Davidson Syn3 oil is manufactured by Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

The company produces and distributes Syn3 oil specifically for use in Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

Harley-Davidson has formulated Syn3 oil to meet the unique requirements and specifications of their engines, ensuring optimal performance and protection.

As the official manufacturer of Syn3 oil, Harley-Davidson ensures that the oil meets their rigorous quality standards and is recommended for use in their motorcycles.

When using Syn3 oil, it is advisable to follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by Harley-Davidson for your specific model to ensure proper lubrication and maintenance of your motorcycle’s engine.

Harley Davidson transmission oil

Harley-Davidson offers specific transmission oils designed for use in their motorcycles.

These transmission oils are formulated to meet the manufacturer’s specifications and provide optimal performance and protection for the transmission system.

When selecting a transmission oil for a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, it is important to choose one that is compatible with the model and transmission type.

Harley-Davidson offers a range of genuine transmission oils that are specifically designed for their motorcycles.

These oils are formulated to meet the unique requirements of Harley-Davidson transmissions, providing proper lubrication and reducing wear and tear on the transmission components.

In addition to the genuine Harley-Davidson transmission oils, there are also aftermarket options available from reputable manufacturers that are designed to fit Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

These aftermarket transmission oils are often formulated to meet or exceed the specifications set by Harley-Davidson and can be a suitable alternative.

When choosing a transmission oil, it is essential to ensure it is the correct viscosity grade and type recommended for your specific Harley-Davidson model and transmission.

It is recommended to consult the motorcycle’s manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center for the exact specifications and recommendations regarding transmission oil for your motorcycle.

Regularly changing the transmission oil at the recommended intervals is an important maintenance practice to ensure smooth gear shifting and prolong the lifespan of the transmission system.

FAQs

Q. What kind of oil should I use in my Harley-Davidson?
A. Harley-Davidson recommends using their own line of oils specifically formulated for their motorcycles. The type and viscosity of oil may vary depending on your Harley-Davidson model and engine. It is important to consult your motorcycle's manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center for the recommended oil type and viscosity for your specific model.

Q. Do I have to use Harley-Davidson oil in my Harley-Davidson?
A. While it is highly recommended to use Harley-Davidson's own line of oils, it is not mandatory. However, using Harley-Davidson oil ensures that you are using a product specifically designed and tested for their motorcycles. It meets the manufacturer's specifications and provides optimal performance and protection. If you choose to use an aftermarket oil, make sure it meets the necessary specifications recommended by Harley-Davidson for your model.

Q. Is Harley transmission oil the same as engine oil?
A. No, Harley transmission oil is different from engine oil. Harley-Davidson motorcycles have separate compartments for the engine oil and transmission oil. Each compartment requires a specific type of oil. The transmission oil is designed to lubricate and protect the gears and other transmission components, while the engine oil is formulated to lubricate and cool the engine. It is important to use the recommended transmission oil for your Harley-Davidson model.

Q. Is synthetic oil better for Harley-Davidson?
A. Synthetic oil can offer several advantages for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Synthetic oils provide improved lubrication, better resistance to high temperatures, and enhanced protection against wear and deposits. They also tend to have longer service intervals, reducing the frequency of oil changes. However, it is crucial to use a synthetic oil specifically formulated for motorcycles and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. It is advisable to consult your motorcycle's manual or contact a Harley-Davidson dealership or authorized service center to determine if synthetic oil is suitable for your specific model and engine.