Can I use transmission fluid instead of fork oil?
ATF works great as a fork oil. It is relatively light weight, 2-5 W and rather unpredictable. If you need to use more than 1 bottle it might be a good idea to premix the stuff to isolate any bottle to bottle differences.
What can be used in place of fork oil?
Peanut Butter, and in some cases jelly…………. Many motorcycle supply shops also sell fork oil if you’re having a hard time finding some. Massage oil is the real secret! After all you do want to keep the insides working good and what better way then to have massage oil working it.
How do you know if your motorcycle forks are bad?
Once both the forks are clean, take your bike out for a quick spin. If you notice oil or grime around the forks at the end of your ride, there’s a good chance that the fork seals need to be replaced. To prevent any further damage, you should get the seals replaced.
Do fork seals need grease?
Just a dab of fork oil when sliding them over, and that’s it. The get wet from the fork oil in the tubes, IMHO, and that’s all they need. If you need silicone grease, GE sells stuff for the o-rings in their water softeners. It’s a small tube, but goes for ever.
Can you use hydraulic oil as fork oil?
I would say it should be fine, as long as it doesn’t destroy the rubber fork seals. Hydraulic fluids have to be safe for rubber seals, so I’d say go for it. You can always drain and clean it if you have to.
Does fork oil matter?
Fork oil viscosity matters The fluid’s viscosity (often thought of as its thickness) influences how fast or slow the oil flows through the shock valves. If you prefer quick rebounds, use a lighter fluid. If you like slower rebounds, use a heavier fluid.
How do you know when fork needs service?
Some indicators for basic bath oil/seal service = leaking around seals, excessive oily dirt goo build up on top of seals that reappears on every ride, visible wear on stanchions(by that time it’s too late).