[Professor]

87 Honda VT700C
Anyone have any experience with using Automatic transmission Fluid in the Forks (shop manual only says ATF, but no type or service spec)?

Also, any comment or experience using kerosene to clean out sludge in the forks?

 

[Cbjr]

ATF will work fine, but.....there is always a but.....the weight varies and is not noted on the ATF containter.

By using a fork oil (at about 4 times the price) it will be accurately weight graded/rated - should you ever want to change rebound dampening and compression characteristics of your forks, you could simply change oil weights - since you know where you started.

Kerosene should be fine, just blow it all out or make sure it is dry before reassembling. I have used spray brake cleaner and carb cleaner with no ill affects but I wipe and dry everything thorougly before reassmbly.

 

[jim eckenrode]

fork oil / ATF

I just read the same question on my Gold Wing site. It sounds like the ATF was the better choice.