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I am trying to rebuild a fork and quite confused on what I need for oil and some of the terms for the types of oil.

I have seen the following:

  • Suspension oil
  • Damper oil
  • Semi-bath oil
  • Gear oil
  • Motor oil

The manuals I am looking only say "oil" or "semi-bath oil" (without a particular difference being mentioned) and only specify 5WT.

What are the differences of these? Should I care and just use the same "suspension oil" for everything?

Carson Reinke
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1 Answers1

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In bicycle hydraulic brakes, there are systems designed for DOT (3/4/5.1) brake fluid, and systems designed for mineral oil. Using the wrong fluid can damage seals and cause terminal failure (and death).

As far as I know, all oil used in MTB suspension is essentially the same basic fluid, plus additives. Citroën did use mineral-based "LHM" fluid for decades but eventually gave in and fell in-line with the rest of the auto industry.

Bicycle suspension forks tend to use light oils.

Gear oil will be too thick. Motor oil may have additives to help it perform in an engine which might interfere with the operation of your fork. The first three in your list are usualy synonyms.

The owner's manual for your fork should specify the oil grade and either a volume to measure or a method to judge the right level. If your fork also uses grease, I'd be more concerned about using the original manufacturer's fluids and grease, but otherwise any suspension oil of the correct grade should be fine.

Emyr
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  • It is a Manitou fork and they literally only say: "Use SAE 5WT suspension fork oil from high quality manufacturers such as Motorex or Maxima." They make no mention of any specific grease to be used. – Carson Reinke Oct 03 '16 at 17:10
  • @CarsonReinke Any oil that's marketed for use in forks or suspension will do the job, as long as it's 5WT. Such a light oil is generally used in MTB and motorbike forks (particularly for dirt bikes). Rock Oil SVI is an example of a high-quality suspension oil that will be compatible with your fork. – Will Vousden Oct 03 '16 at 21:03