A friend of mine changed the oil in my v-rod last summer. I've never had to add oil between changes before, but it's getting low. I don't know what kind of oil he used. Do different brands or types of oil mix OK? I don't want to have it changed after three months just because it's low.

Sorry in advance for the stupid question. I really did try to search first...

Lisa

 

I see you have been a member since 2007. You do not want to mix regular (dino) oil with synthetic oil. So, if you can't find out what was used, change it and the filter too.

 

If you don't know whats in it I'd change it and find some documentation on how to do it, if the oil filterneeded to be partly filled during the change and it wasn't well that could be your "missing" oil.

 

Best to keep friends away from your motorcycle maintenance, assuming it's a guy, he may be exagerating his knowledge to impress you.

 

Just something interesting in your post. You said last summer, was that summer of 08 or 09? Does the manual say once a year?

 

She said she doesn't want too change it after 3 months so it was prolly 09.

Just top it off with the proper viscosity as stated in your manual (but don't over fill it) and you'll be fine. If no manual, your dealer can tell you the right viscosity. You can add either regular oil or synthetic to bring the level up, but next change use just one type and remember it.

 

Hey Change it yourself! 3/4 in thinwall socket 20/50 synthetic mob1 and a filter. Just kidding altho you could do it. If you cant find what oil he used it will need to be changed and the filter.

 

There are no dumb questions.

 

Only dumb answers.

 

I agree it is probably best to change it so that you know the details and the milage on the oil. I do not agree though on mixing dino with synthetic. It is done all the time and even sold commercially as a blend. No problem there it just will not have the longer change interval or other positive characteristics of the Syn. It will not harm it.

But....to each his own.

R.Todd