Triumphrat

BlueTbird · 07-13-2006

Does any one have strong opinions on fork oil for the Tbird? Are some brands better then others? How often does it need to be changed?

Tre900 · 07-14-2006

I haven't done this yet myself but when I was researching I found that some people use a honda brand. You could do a search and find some specific weight information I'm sure.

bobsyouruncle · 07-14-2006

As soon as my fork seals arrive, I'll be changing out mine in the TBS, so I'll be watching to see what brand people recommend here...

jimmyj900 · 07-14-2006

I've been using Yamaha fork oil lately because of availability -- the local YamaHonda shop is close and they keep their shelves well stocked. I've also used Belray in the past and that worked fine.

In the 'old days' I used light weight motor oil a couple of times with no problems. I haven't seen low-viscosity single-weight oil on the shelves in years, so that's no longer an option.

Fork oils are specifically designed for the application so any brand-name oil will perform as intended. I personally don't think it makes much difference whether you use a synthetic or dino oil since it's not a high heat or high shear situation as you'd find in an engine and transmission.

The choice of oil weight is up to you. I believe Triumph calls for a 15-weight oil but you might want to go to a 20-weight if the damping feels soft.

As to how often to change the oil, well...

I did the first fork oil change on Mutato after about a year when I replaced the fork springs and the old oil was pretty nasty looking -- very dark and with a sort of 'aluminum paint' look to it. I didn't do a flush or full disassembly on the forks, just inverted them, pumped them a few times and let them drain overnight.

Four years later when I pulled the forks apart to send them out for straightening one tube had pretty good looking oil in it but the other was a bit dark and 'aluminum' looking. I guess I didn't get all of the old oil out on the first oil change.

I'd say change the fork oil after the first year of riding and then check it every couple of years after that.

You can pull the caps off the tops of the fork tubes and use a flashlight to see if the levels are equal and you can pull up the fork springs to check the condition of the oil.

If you pull the fork caps and are using a center stand or paddock stand, be sure to jack the front of the engine until the front wheel is off the ground or you'll have a real mess when the fork springs pop out! :wink:

Jim

BlueTbird · 07-14-2006

Thanks for suggestions. I have replaced the oil several times myself with out any problems. The first time I changed the oil was after 4 years and it did look pretty bad. I am changing it more frequently now (every 12k miles). Sounds like any name brand oil is fine.