Fork oil weight

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09 Aug 2021 17:40 #853477 by kzMax
Fork oil weight was created by kzMax
I am preparing to change the fork oil and seals on my 1982 KZ550 A3. My manuals say to use SAE 5w-20 oil, but I've noticed that fork oil is weighted differently from motor oil (5w, 10w, 15w, etc). Is it better to use dedicated fork oil, and if so, what would be equivalent to 5w-20?
Thanks!

1982 KZ550 A3
Central MA / Boston

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09 Aug 2021 17:54 - 09 Aug 2021 17:55 #853479 by Nessism
Replied by Nessism on topic Fork oil weight
I suggest 10 weight fork oil.  And consider getting new fork springs which don't require any air to supplement the for springs.  You can use 15 weight if you are a large rider and/or if you carry a passenger regularly, but the ride will be less compliant.
Last edit: 09 Aug 2021 17:55 by Nessism.
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09 Aug 2021 18:09 #853480 by kzMax
Replied by kzMax on topic Fork oil weight
I'm not a very large rider (6'2" 170lbs) so 10wt sounds good to me. Why do you recommend replacing the springs rather than adding air pressure?

1982 KZ550 A3
Central MA / Boston

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09 Aug 2021 18:27 #853481 by Nessism
Replied by Nessism on topic Fork oil weight

I'm not a very large rider (6'2" 170lbs) so 10wt sounds good to me. Why do you recommend replacing the springs rather than adding air pressure?BB
Because the pressure leaks down and causes stiction on the seals.  Get yourself some nice Sonic springs and problem solved for a nominal price.

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09 Aug 2021 19:06 #853483 by kzMax
Replied by kzMax on topic Fork oil weight
Interesting, I'll look into that.

1982 KZ550 A3
Central MA / Boston

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