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View Full Version : Which Fluids to Have on Hand?



Phyxius
10-16-2012, 08:17 AM
I've read my manual and searched around on here. I just want to confirm what's safe and okay to use.

Oil: 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil
Judging from the numerous threads I saw Amsoil is a favorite (I also confirmed this with two auto parts stores locally, neither of which actually sell it):
http://www.amsoil.com/storefront/mcf.aspx

Brake Fluid: DOT 4
I couldn't find any brand specific posts on here. I just bought Pennzoil DOT 4 is that okay?
http://www.pennzoil.com/other-car-products/brake-and-power-steering-fluid/pennzoil-super-heavy-duty-dot-3-and-dot-4-brake-fluid/

Coolant: 50/50 Distilled Water & Antifreeze
I found pre-dilutes in the store and picked up this one by Peak, it is ethylene glycol based and phosphate-free and silicate-free, okay to use?:
http://www.peakauto.com/antifreeze-peak-long_life_5050_prediluted.shtml

Fuel Treatment:
My dealer recommended Star Tron so, I listened. It's supposed to help combat ethanol problems and help with performance and fuel economy:
http://mystarbrite.com/startron/

So, am I doing okay? I haven't put anything in yet, I'm paranoid and don't want to hurt my Spyder. I'm going on a longish trip this weekend and will be going for my 600 mile service when I get home. Thanks in advance for looking! Also, regarding brake fluid the manual says repeatedly to use unopened brake fluid. So, when you open it if you don't use it all do you just chuck out the rest? I understand you don't want it to be dirty but if you close the bottle right after pouring it in will you be able to use the rest of it?

Lamonster
10-16-2012, 08:44 AM
Never used Startron but I do carry Seafoam with me.

boborgera
10-16-2012, 08:57 AM
An opened bottle of brake fluid will attract water, Even if you close the cap tight, But i would think if you store it in a dry place and don't keep it too long it will be OK. :dontknow:

dave01
10-16-2012, 09:21 AM
Never used Startron but I do carry Seafoam with me.

+1 on the Seafoam. Use it in all of my gas operated toys.

Bob Denman
10-16-2012, 10:02 AM
Make that a +2 for SeaFoam... :2thumbs:
BajaRon can give you the lowdown on just which oil might be the best one for your Spyder... :thumbup:

major911
10-16-2012, 10:29 AM
I carry a bottle of Lucas fuel treatment. 1 oz every other fill up does the trick for me.

Phyxius
10-16-2012, 11:04 AM
BajaRon can give you the lowdown on just which oil might be the best one for your Spyder... :thumbup:

His is one of the posts I based the Amsoil off of :)

link not updating - removing and reposting:
http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?36129-AMSOIL-or-BRP-oil&p=413682&viewfull=1#post413682 (http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.pho?36129-AMSOIL-or-BRP-oil&p=413682&viewfull=1#post413682)

Still weird but copy and paste works!

NancysToy
10-16-2012, 12:02 PM
I've read my manual and searched around on here. I just want to confirm what's safe and okay to use.

Oil: 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil
Judging from the numerous threads I saw Amsoil is a favorite (I also confirmed this with two auto parts stores locally, neither of which actually sell it):
http://www.amsoil.com/storefront/mcf.aspx
The factory spec is for 5W-40, but 10W-40 does fine. Amsoil is top of the line, but there are others that are quite suitable.


Brake Fluid: DOT 4
I couldn't find any brand specific posts on here. I just bought Pennzoil DOT 4 is that okay?
http://www.pennzoil.com/other-car-products/brake-and-power-steering-fluid/pennzoil-super-heavy-duty-dot-3-and-dot-4-brake-fluid/
Any DOT 4 fluid should do. Leave the container sealed, then discard any leftovers after using what you need. I wouldn't keep an unsealed container more than a month. Readily available at most stores these days, so it needn't actually be carried or kept around. It is very corrosive and removes paint in an instant, so be sure to protect the surroundings when used. The corrosiveness is another reason not to carry it on the road.


Coolant: 50/50 Distilled Water & Antifreeze
I found pre-dilutes in the store and picked up this one by Peak, it is ethylene glycol based and phosphate-free and silicate-free, okay to use?:
http://www.peakauto.com/antifreeze-peak-long_life_5050_prediluted.shtml
Be sure the label says "suitable of aluminum engines".


Fuel Treatment:
My dealer recommended Star Tron so, I listened. It's supposed to help combat ethanol problems and help with performance and fuel economy:
http://mystarbrite.com/startron/
Can't hurt.

Bad Dog6
10-16-2012, 12:11 PM
As the AMSOIL site sponsor, I can arrange for you to purchase AMSOIL wholesale. Just click on the banner. Once there, click on the flashing "Trial Membership Banner" and fill out and submit the form. I will do the rest. There is no cost to you for the membership.

Bob Denman
10-16-2012, 12:11 PM
Hey!
Don't forget:
Elbow Grease
Headlight Fluid
http://kalecoauto.com/

Phyxius
10-16-2012, 03:24 PM
Be sure the label says "suitable of aluminum engines".



I looked at about 5 different brands. All said suitable for all makes/models none specified aluminum.

Interesting, my old car had an aluminum engine too. Never did have to add antifreeze to it though.

Phyxius
10-16-2012, 03:26 PM
As the AMSOIL site sponsor, I can arrange for you to purchase AMSOIL wholesale. Just click on the banner. Once there, click on the flashing "Trial Membership Banner" and fill out and submit the form. I will do the rest. There is no cost to you for the membership.

Done! Thanks :)