Motorcycle Engine Lubrication

2022-08-13 13:02:52 By : Ms. Joy Qiao

Popular Posts Building a 6.0L LS Engine Women in Motorsports: Mattie Graves Crankshaft Offering Update 94mm Turbocharged 427 LS-Powered Pontiac Trans Am 88mm Turbocharged 383 cid Gen II LT1 Engine Connect with us advertise with us

Building a 6.0L LS Engine

Women in Motorsports: Mattie Graves

94mm Turbocharged 427 LS-Powered Pontiac Trans Am

88mm Turbocharged 383 cid Gen II LT1 Engine

Popular Posts Building a 6.0L LS Engine Women in Motorsports: Mattie Graves Crankshaft Offering Update 94mm Turbocharged 427 LS-Powered Pontiac Trans Am 88mm Turbocharged 383 cid Gen II LT1 Engine Connect with us advertise with us

Building a 6.0L LS Engine

Women in Motorsports: Mattie Graves

94mm Turbocharged 427 LS-Powered Pontiac Trans Am

88mm Turbocharged 383 cid Gen II LT1 Engine

How can you not love summer? Sure, it gets hot, but it definitely beats the cold, and there’s so much going on to occupy your time. Here at Engine Builder, our team has stayed extremely busy attending racing events, shows, visiting manufacturers and engine shops, as well as our usual content work.

When the timing cover or block has no dowel pins, or the dowel holes do not fit snug on the pins. Take an old damper and hone the center so that it is now a slip fit onto the crank snout. Use it to hold the cover in place while tightening the bolts.

Women in motorsports... need we say more? These nine women do some awesome things in this industry.

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Add Your Listing Edit Your Listing By Category Engine Components A/N Fittings/AdaptorsAir Induction SystemsBatteriesBearings (camshaft)Bearings (engine sleeve type)Bearings (main rear main)Bearings (Rod)Belt Tensioner/IdlersBrass FittingsBushingsCam CapsCamshaft Belt DrivesCamshaft KitsCamshaft SealsCamshaft Thrust Plate and PartsCamshaftsCarburetorsChain KitsClampsComplete EnginesConnecting RodsConnecting Rods Nuts BoltsCrankshaft ConversionsCrankshaft KitsCrankshaft Oil SlingersCrankshaft Pulley SleevesCrankshaft Repair SleevesCrankshaft SealsCrankshaftsCylinder Head ComponentsCylinder Heads New: Aluminum BareCylinder Heads New: Aluminum CompleteCylinder Heads New: Cast Iron BareCylinder Heads New: Cast Iron CompleteCylinder Heads Reman: Aluminum BareCylinder Heads Reman: Aluminum CompleteCylinder Heads Reman: Cast Iron BareCylinder Heads Reman: Cast Iron CompleteCylinder Liners (sleeves)Diesel InjectorsDipstick Adapters (Chevy Ford)Dowel PinsEFI ComponentsEngine BlocksEngine Blocks - RemanufacturedEngine KitsEngine Management Systems/ECUsEngine MountsExhaust ComponentsExhaust Components: Complete SystemsExhaust Components: Custom ExhaustsExhaust Components: Leak DetectionExhaust Components: ManifoldsExhaust Components: Tube NotchingExhaust Components: Tube SwagingExhaust Components: Tube/Frame Bending MachinesFilters - AirFilters - FuelFilters - OilFlywheel (ring) GearsFlywheel AssembliesFuel Injection - ElectronicFuel Injection - MechanicalFuel PumpsFuel System ComponentsGasket CementGasketsGear DrivesGovernorsHarmonic Balancer Repair SleevesHarmonic Balancers/DampersHead Bolts/StudsHex ShaftsHydraulic Lash AdjustersIgnition ComponentsInjector TubesInjectors - DieselInjectors - Gasoline DirectInjectors - IndirectIntake ManifoldsIPR ValvesKeysLockwashersMain Caps (4-bolt)Manifold StudsNitrous Oxide Systems, ComponentsNitrous Valves and PlatesNuts and BoltsOil CoolersOil Filter AdaptersOil PansOil Pressure SpringsOil Pump KitsOil Pump ScreensOil Pump ShaftsOil Pump Timing CoversOil PumpsOiling Systems; Dry SumpOverhead Camshaft Repair SleevesPiston Pin BushingsPiston Pin Lock RingsPiston PinsPiston RingsPistonsPlugs - ExpansionPlugs - MagneticPlugs - Oil DrainPlugs - StandardPush RodsRadiator/Oil FansRering KitsRestoration Engine PartsRocker Arm Rebuilding ComponentsRocker Assemblies and KitsRocker Stud GirdlesSealsSerpentine BeltsShimsShort BlocksSpark PlugsSpringsSuperchargers, componentsSwitchesTappetsThread RepairThrust WashersTiming Belt/Chain TensionerTiming Belts/ChainsTiming Chains, Gears, SprocketsTiming ComponentsTiming CoversTransmission AdaptorsTurbochargers, componentsValve CoversValve Guide LinersValve GuidesValve KeysValve Lifter BallsValve LiftersValve Locks and SealsValve Seat InsertsValve Spring InsertsValve Spring RetainersValve SpringsValve Stem Oil SealsValve Train PartsValvesWater PumpsWater Tubes Engine Equipment & Preparation Adhesive DispensingAir Flow BenchesAir Handling SystemsBalance Shaft Elimination KitBalance Shaft Line Boring EquipmentBalancing AccessoriesBalancing EquipmentBelt SanderBench GrinderBlock Pressure Testing EquipmentBoring Bar InsertsBoring Bar Tool BitsBoring Machines/Connecting RodBoring Machines/CylinderBoring Machines/LineBoring Stand (For Portable Boring Machines)Brass FittingsBroachBushing Bearing & Seal Driver SetsCAD/CAM SoftwareCam Bearing Installation ToolCamshaft Degree Wheel (Digital)Camshaft GrindersCap & Rod GrinderCBN Inserts - NewCBN Inserts - ResurfacedCleaning Specialized EngineCNC Machining CentersCNC Retrofit KitsCompressed Air EquipmentConnecting Rod GaugesCoolant Filter MachinesCore Shift TesterCrack Repair EquipmentCranesCrankshaft Balance WeightsCrankshaft FurnaceCrankshaft GrindersCrankshaft Journal Weld KitsCrankshaft PolisherCrankshaft Polishing BeltsCrankshaft StraightenerCylinder Head Adapter PlatesCylinder Head Assembly/Disassembly Equip.Cylinder Head Chamfering ToolCylinder Head GaugeCylinder Head HoldersCylinder Head PolishingCylinder Head PortingCylinder Head Pressure TesterCylinder Head StraighteningCylinder Hone StopsCylinder Porting ToolsCylinder Sleeve PressDemagnetizersDiamond DressersDiesel Injector Hole Repair ToolsDiesel Injector Sleeve Installation ToolDowel PullersDye Penetrant InspectionDynamometersEngine Adaptor PlatesEngine Cycle AnalyzerExhaust Leak DetectionFeeler GaugesFlexible Honing Tools/Brush HonesFlywheel GrinderFuel Injection Cleaning ServicesGrinder Head StraighteningGrinding CoolantsGrinding WheelsHardness TestersHead/Block Crack Repair KitsHead/Block Resurfacing (Belt/Sanders)Head/Block Resurfacing (Milling)Heat Tabs Temperature SticksHolding FixturesHone Stop FixtureHoning JigsHoning Machines Wrist PinHoning Machines/CylinderHoning Machines/LineHoning Machines/RodHoning Machines/Valve GuideHoning PlatesHoning StonesIgnition System TestersIn-Process Gauges(Cam and Crank Grinders)Inspection GaugesLeak Down TesterLeveling DeviceMagnetic Particle Inspection Crack DetectionMicropolishing EquipmentOHC Line Boring ToolsOil Leak DetectionPCD Inserts - NewPin Fitting & Rod Reconditioning/TestingPin PressPin RemovalPiston KnurlerPiston Ring CompressorsPre-Cup Machining ToolsPush Rod Guide PlatesReplacement Chuck for Valve FacersRocker Arm GrinderRod AlignmentRod Bolt ProtectorsRod FurnaceRod VisesRun-In StandsStandsStud PullersTapsTest EquipmentThickness GaugeThread GaugesThread Repair & Replacement KitTorque PlatesUltrasonic Test EquipmentVacuum TesterValve Grinding BenchValve Guide & Seat Driver SetValve Guide & Seat MachineValve Guide Boring FixtureValve Guide HoneValve Guide KnurlingValve Guide PilotValve Guide ReamerValve Guide ToolValve Refacer (Cutter)Valve Refacer (Grinder)Valve Refacer WheelsValve Seat CuttersValve Seat InserterValve Seat PullersValve Seat ResurfacerValve Seat Runout GaugeValve Seat Tool GrinderValve Seat WheelsValve Spring CompressorValve Spring TestersValve Stem GrinderValve Stem Height MeasuringValve Stem PolisherWater Tube PullerWet Flow Bench Conversions Supplies & Service Chemicals & SolventsCore Cleaning & ProcessingCranes & HoistsHand ToolsLubricantsPressesServicesShippingStorage Racks & BenchesWelding

Whether you’re a professional engine builder, machinist or manufacturer, or an automotive enthusiast who likes engines, racing and fast vehicles, Engine Builder offers content aimed at you. Our print magazine offers in-depth tech features on everything you need to know about engine building and its different markets, while our newsletter options keep you up-to-date on the latest news and products, tech info and personalities in the industry. But, you only get all of that if you subscribe. Subscribe now to receive Engine Builder magazine in print and/or digital each month, and our Engine Builder newsletter, Engine of the Week newsletter or Diesel of the Week newsletter directly in your inbox each week. You’ll be covered in horsepower in no time!

Whether you’re a professional engine builder, machinist or manufacturer, or an automotive enthusiast who likes engines, racing and fast vehicles, Engine Builder offers content aimed at you. Our print magazine offers in-depth tech features on everything you need to know about engine building and its different markets, while our newsletter options keep you up-to-date on the latest news and products, tech info and personalities in the industry. But, you only get all of that if you subscribe. Subscribe now to receive Engine Builder magazine in print and/or digital each month, and our Engine Builder newsletter, Engine of the Week newsletter or Diesel of the Week newsletter directly in your inbox each week. You’ll be covered in horsepower in no time!

ByEngine Builder Staff on Oct 14, 2021

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Despite common misconceptions, not all oil is created equal when it comes to lubricating motorcycle engines. As with other consumer vehicles, owners want high performance and protection for their investment, which is why using the proper lubricants is so critical to making sure they function properly.

Sales of new-model motorcycles increased more than 37.2% in the first quarter of 2021 and appear to be on a growth trajectory scheduled to last throughout the year, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council. Grandview Research projects the total monetary value in sales in the motorcycle market will reach $10.88 billion in the United States by 2025. 

As more people make the decision to become motorcycle owners, the interest in protecting that investment continues to grow, too. That’s why it is critical for shop owners and motorcycle enthusiasts alike to better understand what lubricants best provide performance and protection. It is also important to understand that, as motorcycle hardware evolves, so do lubricant performance requirements.

In this article, we will examine why motorcycles need specific lubricant performance attributes and chemistry along with critical information needed to make the right lubricant choice for your bike.

Despite common misconceptions, not all oil is created equal when it comes to lubricating motorcycle engines. As with other consumer vehicles, owners want high performance and protection for their investment, which is why using the proper lubricants is so critical to making sure they function properly. 

Unlike passenger cars, motorcycle oil lubricates not just the engine, but also the wet-clutch and gears. Motorcycle engines also typically operate at higher speeds and often depend on air to cool the engine. These harsh operating conditions mean that dedicated motorcycle oils must focus on meeting the specific performance needs of the engines with lubricants formulated to not only lubricate, but to work with and protect the motorcycle hardware. Not all owners are aware that using conventional passenger car engine oil in their motorcycles isn’t just ill-advised – in fact, it can cause long-term performance and durability issues.

Using conventional passenger car lubricants in motorcycles can lead to problems like clutch slip, which results in power loss and potential safety concerns. Clutch slip allows the motorcycle to lurch forward due to higher levels of friction modifiers designed to enhance fuel economy performance in passenger cars. Similarly, the use of lower viscosity, fuel economy oils and the absence of extreme pressure anti-wear booster chemistry can result in gear pitting problems in the motorcycle transmission, leading to excessive noise, durability issues and, in extreme cases, catastrophic failure of the engine. 

Then, there is the need for specially formulated detergent systems to cope with the higher operating temperature ranges and greater propensity for engine deposits. Formulating the optimal balance of detergents, dispersants, anti-wear additives and antioxidants is necessary to ensure engine cleanliness is maintained for peak performance and durability. An optimized lubricant formulation will not only boost performance and protect hardware, but will also provide a more enjoyable, consistent and reliable riding experience.

In the past, motorcycle owners relied on higher-viscosity oils to protect their engines because of the perception that lower-viscosity oils wouldn’t provide enough film strength to adequately protect their hardware. As engine and lubricant technologies continue to evolve, however, the long-held belief that lower-viscosity lubricants are inferior no longer holds true. 

Enabled by advanced additive technology formulated specifically for motorcycles, lower-viscosity oils can now (where specified by the manufacturer) provide reliable protection on par with the heavier viscosity grades of yesteryear. Because they are formulated specifically for motorcycle engines, they often improve power, acceleration and fuel efficiency as well – all without compromising durability. 

To determine the right oil for your motorcycle, first check your owner’s manual for guidance on the performance specifications (API category) and viscosity grades to use. Once you have found oils meeting the specifications, you can then check whether the oil you’re considering for use in your machine has been specifically formulated and tested for motorcycle use. In most cases, this will mean checking the bottle label to determine if the lubricant has a JASO motorcycle certification. 

If it does carry a JASO specification, it means that oil was tested specifically for use in motorcycle engines. Whether you’re a motorcycle shop owner working on a customer’s bike or an enthusiast working on your own, it’s important to make sure you have the right lubricant for the motorcycle’s benefit. Putting passenger car lubricant in a motorcycle engine is potentially risky, so make sure you’re choosing your lubricant wisely.

Motorcycles are a significant investment, whether for reliable day-to-day transport or for sport/leisure riding, so making sure you’re using the right lubricant is key to protecting your investment. It’s critical to seek lubricants that are specifically designed to protect your motorcycle and in compliance with the manufacturer’s recommended specifications to ensure your bike is protected and performs at its best now, and for many years to come. EB

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