Bandit Alley

MODEL SPECIFIC => SUZUKI BANDIT 600 thru 1200 - AIR/OIL COOLED TECHNICAL => Topic started by: android12 on October 12, 2013, 11:40:15 PM

Title: Synthetic finding leaks vs conventional
Post by: android12 on October 12, 2013, 11:40:15 PM

First off sorry not another oil thread. But I started Rotella T6 full synthetic about 10k ago and in the last year had to replace both crank case gaskets. Just curious if anyone using conventional is not seeing the same? I just turned 30k. Sent PM to Red but It doesn't show as sent. I thought I heard he used the Rotella t 15w-40 conventional? Im not paying full price for Torco etc..

Title: Re: Synthetic finding leaks vs conventional
Post by: txbanditrydr on October 13, 2013, 09:38:10 AM

Rotella 15w-40 here.... and have been for the last 127,000 miles - original gaskets all around except for a starter cover and the other side (for valve adjusts).  The starter cover gasket shredded itself around 43K miles and I never can get that right side off without tearing it.   I do have a very slight weep on the clutch cover side but it has never left a drop on the floor so I've just left it alone.

Title: Re: Synthetic finding leaks vs conventional
Post by: android12 on October 13, 2013, 11:56:44 AM

I think Im going to go to Rotella 15w-40 conventional. Sounds like yours is holding up with that many miles. Cant beat a $18 oil change with filter! Thanks.

Title: Re: Synthetic finding leaks vs conventional
Post by: pmackie on October 16, 2013, 03:13:43 PM

I used Esso XD-3 Extra 0W-40 Synthetic (Canadian spec - now Mobil Delvac 1 ESP 0W-40) for the 60,000 kms I had my B6. My brother has the bike for 4 years now, using Shell Rotella 5W-40 Diesel Synthetic and after 10+ years, no leaks anywhere.

Lots of opinions on oil, in my opinion, Diesel Engine oils are a good choice for the Bandit. Be aware however, that the higher zinc and phosphorous levels are not good for anything with Catalytic Converters.