20W-40 oil question

[tie_one_on]

I just picked up a 1988 Yamaha YFM 200 4 wheeler. The manual calls for 20W-40 oil when changing the oil. 20W-40 seems very difficult to find. Can I use 10W-40, 15W-40 or 20W-50 (all are easy to find)? Thanks.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

I always used either 10W-40 or 15W-40 in my Polaris Ranger.

 

[i386]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

The dealer should carry it if you have one close by. I always get my oil, filter, and new crush washer for the drain plug from the dealer for my Honda motorcycle.

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

......

 

[Turin]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

10w40 should do the trick its a bit thinner but that doesnt matter.

20W40 is loads cheaper if you can find it.

 

[KM2]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

A 0-40, 10-40 would be fine. Dont' put an auto oil in, use a motorcycle/atv oil. I believe you have semi-auto transmission with a wet clutch. Friction modifiers in auto oil may cause you problems with clutch.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

You can uses Shell Rotella. It does not have the friction reducers in it so it is fine for motorcycle engines with wet clutches that share the crankcase with the tranny. You can get it at WalMart.

 

[tie_one_on]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

Thanks for the replies so far. I am confused (nothing new) by KM2's comment of not using automotive oil. I believe the manual call for 20W-40 SF/SE. Isn't this an automotive oil? What the difference? I know I'm treading on hallowed ground as this could end up in "another oil" conflict.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 20W-40 oil question

The key is that the oil has to have no friction reducers in it.

Go to a motorcycle site and this topic is always on them. Most that don't use the designated motorcycle oils use Rotella.