OIL

[petesgoldwing]

How important is the brand of oil you put into, like an 82 GL1100. Like Royal Purple, Penezoil, Havoline . Could some one tell me, does brand mean anything?

[RoadRogue]

For the most part oil is oil . As long as it meets or exceeds the requirement of the engine.
Below is taken from the owners hand book for an 82 1100.

Recommended Oil Viscosity
SAE IOW-40
Other viscosities shown in the chart
below may be used when the average
temperature in your riding area is within
the indicated range.
USE HONDA 4-STROKE OIL OR AN
EQUIVALENT.
Use oruX-high detergent, premium quality
motor oil certified to meet or exceed
U.S. 'automobile manufactures' requirements
for Service Classification SE or SF.
Motor oils intended for Service SE or SF
will show this designation on the container.
The use of special oil additives is unnecessary
and will only increase operating
expenses.
CAUTION'
* Engine oil is a major factor affecting the
performance and service" life of the
engine, Non-detergent, vegetable, or
castor based racing oils are not recommended

3
many of us have a favorite oil we use for whatever reason. I prefer to use Chevrons Delo 400LE 15w40 and if not availiable I will use Shells rotella T 15w40. Both of these are SG or CJ rated oils for diesel engines, higher rating than is required . I find that the Delo makes for smoother shifting and easier to find nuetral.
Oil is one of those "favorite " hot topics .every body has an opinion on the matter. Generally most everyone agrees that using an oil with friction modifiers (moly) is to be avoided as it may cause your wet clutch to slip. Type "Oil" into the search box and you will have many hrs of reading availiable to you.

The key is to pick a quality oil and change it as per mother Hondas recomendations

[saltmar14]

i just put in the delo 400 15-40 as so many gw owners are switching to it, it is a diesel oil that is supposed to quiet engine noises, make shifting smoother, and clean engine and clutch plate better.

[petesgoldwing]

Thank you guys for the good words.

[Jeff_A]

I used to spent $7. a qt for Honda Brand oil because that is what I was told for a long time I needed. What a fool I was. Now use the Delo 400. Cost is about the same as reg. oil and runs fine.