Changing Oil Type

[Bengt_Phorqs]

OK, first the disclaimer - this is not a dreaded oil thread!  I'm not concerned with what brand of oil you use, like or dislike.  However what I would like to know is your thoughts on changing oil type or brands.

I just traded one of my bikes, the '99 R1100RT, for a 99 R1100S.  (What a fun bike that is!)  The PO used BelRay EXL 10W40.  I've always had good luck with the Castrol brand oils and prefer to stay with what I know.  What are the downsides to changing from BelRay to Castrol in the new bike, and if I do is there a recommended method for doing so?  For me it's not really a matter of cost but one of convenience.  I don't want to carry two different brands when Theresa and I are on a trip, one for my bike and one for hers.  Also, the BelRay is not always readily available at your local Napa store like the Castrol is. [smiley=beehive.gif]

[Barry]

Ive never heard of a problem with switching oil brands. They are all blended with additives. Even mixing mineral with "synthetic" is not supposed to be a problem in most cases.

[Bob_Roller]

You're not going to have any issues, as long as you use quality name brand lubricants .

They all conform to the same SAE specifications .

Now switching to full synthetic, after you've been using regular, or semi-synthetic oil, problems can occur there, it's happened to me personally on the R65 .

[oldbiker]

You should have no problem if you drain the sump while the engine is hot and wait plenty of time for the galleries to drain. I have changed oil brands in numerous machines and keep all my diesels lubed with IH tractor oil with satisfactory results. On the initial change of brand I usually sacrifice a pint or two of oil - remove and empty the old filter and replace it. Add a pint or two of oil and start up till warm. Drain this oil again-I usually keep it for lube cans-and fit new filter and top up. I never mix oil brands in any engine if I can avoid it.

[montmil]

Mike, Just don't tell the new R1100S what you're doing and it'll all be good.  wink, wink

Monte

[nhmaf]

Ooo - I don't think that I'd run any airhead or oilhead engine with only a pint or two of oil in it..

[Bengt_Phorqs]

Thanks guys, that's about what I thought.  Good quality oil & filter, frequent changes, don't mix dino and synth.  I think the only alternate oil I have to keep in mind is the non-detergent for the little 250 Turnip.  Of course it sort of changes it's own oil all the time by piddling on the garage floor.  I just keep it topped up!