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Using diesel-formulated motor oil in my 2-wheeled RV

Geocritter
Explorer
Explorer
There are some very smart and technically knowledgeable people on this board, so I hope it’s okay to ask a question that’s evolved from a personal sized 2-wheel RV I recently purchased. The machine requires 10W40 to 20W50 motor oil which is danged hard to find in affordable places like Wal-Mart, except for motor oil formulated for diesel engines. Would I be risking eventual problems with my 2-wheeled RV by using 20W50 diesel-formulated oil in its gasoline powered engine?

It has a comparatively high-reving single cylinder 4-valve DOHC engine which is what has me worried.

Steve
33 REPLIES 33

WyoTraveler
Explorer
Explorer
I use 15w-40 api sm oil in my gas generator. No problem. Many of the diesel motor oils have the sm designation now.

gbopp
Explorer
Explorer
Instead of being vague, why not give us the make/model, etc. of your 2 wheeled RV.
Maybe someone has one and can give you more accurate information.

I think Chris Bryant gave you good information.

And I agree with dan-nickie, find a forum spceific to your 2 wheeled RV. They would know any quirks wirh your RV.

Chris_Bryant
Explorer II
Explorer II
*If* it has the correct API rating (or higher), which it probably does, it will be fine. I just looked at the bottle of Rotella I have and it is rated SM.
If it doesn't have an "S" rating, I wouldn't.
-- Chris Bryant

dan-nickie
Explorer
Explorer
I have no idea what your 2 wheel RV is.
But lots of motorcycle owners use Rotella T including me.
I would suggest finding a forum specific to your 2 wheel RV and ask there.
Dan and Nickie
2014 Forest River Berkshire 390RB

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