[burro58]

I have a 2004 Fat Boy that I am geting ready to service for it's 1000 miles. I have heard conflicting views on the use of synthtic oil to standard. Could some one please advise me as the the pros and cons of the synthtic oil. Thanks

[CD]

I think this is one of the most discussed subjects there is. Quality dino oil changed frequently and operated in the correct temperature range is just fine. If you want the added edge of better lubrication and flow and the ability to withstand higher temperatures longer then synthetic is the way to go.

I run BelRay semi-synthetic in my 2KRK and am switching to Mobil1 at the next oil change for the 04 Mach1 as it sees some serious RPM and gets driven pretty hard. I have never had a snthetic let me down but I have cooked dino oil to the point it smelled burnt and it was sludge.

Here is an Amsoil article:

http://www.performanceoiltechnology....dsonoilgaw.htm

[hotroadking]

Like CD says they are both fine just one's finer LOL

Dyno oil requires more additives to be able to withstand the heat than synthetic, and over time through multiple heat cycles dyno oil starts to deteriorate at an accerated rate over syn oil.

People used to say syn was too slippery, the fact is 20W-50 syn is the same exact grade as 20W-50 dyno, the oil's viscosity and "slipperyness" is the same

What basically happens is dyno oil and it's additives start to break down faster and eventually offer less protection

There is no reason why you shouldn't switch you'll find lower operating temps generally and reduced sound from the motor.

Don't worry about having to buy HD Syn3 any V-twin 20W-50 synthetic meets HD specs and won't void your warranty, if the dealer tells you that your warranty will be void if you dont' use HD oil just say

"wow, Mr SM did you know that you just put HD and your dealership in violation of a federal law? It's called the Magnusson Moss act The FTC governs consumers and warrantes under this act, and now that HD's requiring us to use their oil to maintain the warranty Federal law says you have to give me the oil free of charge so I"ll take my 4 qt's free now please" Probably PO the guy LOL but it's the fact.

[burro58]

Thanks for the info. It has helped a great deal and I think I will be going with the syn.

[SISK]

Burro58,

Good choice to go with the Synthetic. I decided to run syn in my '03 Heritage from day one, and haven't had any regrets. There may be those that try and tell you that syn has it's negatives, but my experience and research has told me that there is no reason to worry that syn will cause any problems in a new engine.
Each time I check the oil, it looks clean and has never smelled burned or old. I agree with what HRK and CD have said.
I have been very impressed with the performance of the syn in my bike. If you do your own oil changes, it's also nice to be able to put the same oil in your engine, trans, and primary without having to stock up on different lubricants.

Rubber to the road,

SISK

[SISK]

Burro58,
I just remembered that the H-D website has some info on their views of synthetic oils. Go to the H-D website then go to the following: Products / Maintenance / Oil & fluids / Syn 3 / then click on the "Important Info." link underneath the product description.

SISK

"If at first you don't succeed, you're running about average"