Topic: 2 questions; exhaust headdeer gasket and shock oil

[Jim]

Hello all...
I'm rebuilding a '73 350F. Ready to load the front shocks with standard fork oil and reviewed the Clymer manual to discover that the 350 is reccommended filled with automatic transmission fluid [ATF] (opposed to the oil of other models including the 400,550 and 750) . Question: Is it OK to use the fork oil or is someone here going to strongly suggest otherwise, and to follow that "why?" Anyone know what the issue is?

Next;
When fitting new (used) headers is it critical i use new gaskets? Are they easy to obtain or do you who have done this before make your own? What's the general consensus?

thanks
J

[greenjeans]

You can use fork oil...maybe a thinner weight ?

ALWAYS use new exhaust gaskets.  You should be able to get some at your local Honda shop for around  $ 5-7 each.

[Jim]

Thanks...
I can get those gaskets ... The oil i have is 10W.  Dont understand why they would advise ATF do u?
J

[lone*X]

ATF contains additives that keep all of the internal oil seals in an automatic transmission from hardening with age and heat there by ensuring the long life of the transmission.   I am sure Honda engineers were aware of this when they designed the forks and chose the fork seal rubber compound to use in them.   ATF is what the service manual recommends because that is what the seals were designed for.

[Jim]

There you go... ATF and new gaskets it is then;

Thanks again for the advise guys 
J

[Raul CB750K1]

ATF contains additives that keep all of the internal oil seals in an automatic transmission from hardening with age and heat there by ensuring the long life of the transmission.   I am sure Honda engineers were aware of this when they designed the forks and chose the fork seal rubber compound to use in them.   ATF is what the service manual recommends because that is what the seals were designed for.

Does it mean that fork oil doesn't contain such additives? Furthermore, the fork seals are made with the same materials than the engine seals, and the engine seals seem to hold pretty well, even when they are subjected to hot and dirty oil.

I see another oil thread coming..... 

[TwoTired]

ATF also has anti-foaming additives, to prevent washboard roads from turning the oil to a froth.

Fork oil usually states right on the bottle that is keeps rubber parts vibrant and has anti-foaming agents.

ATF has a viscosity ranging around 7.  Fork oil you can get in a wide assortment of viscosities for tunning toward your desires; soft or stiff.

Cheers,

[eurban]

Yes to put it simply, your forks will be happy with either. . . . Fork oil will  give you the benefit of knowing the weight of the oil you are using and choosing from a variety of weights for your particular application.

[Jim]

Posting here is like taking your motorcycle to the doctors office. Again,much thanks
J