Proper storage of motorcycle engine oil is crucial for your motorcycle to run efficiently over and over again. If, for some reason, you plan on leaving your motorcycle idle for a long time, say winter, or if you have extra motorcycle oil, learning how to store it properly will assist you in not harming your bike’s engine and keeping it in its best state.
In this guide, let’s discuss the things you ought to know about motorcycle engine oil storage and some of the issues with your bike that can result from corrosion and contaminants.
Why is Storing Motorcycle Oil Important?
Motorcycle oil plays a very crucial role in your motorcycle and should always be in good condition. It aids in maintaining the relative and smooth motion of all internal parts, does not allow rust formation, and minimizes rubbing within the tube-like structure of an engine.
When your oil is stored the wrong way, the oil could break down or become dirty which is not good for the engine in question.
For example, oil that is in contact with direct sunlight or heights of temperature may change its viscosities, which will be an indication that it cannot well protect the engine parts. Furthermore, the oils will also degrade over some time, and they will even undergo oxidation, which may not be good for engine functioning.
Factors to Consider When Storing Motorcycle Engine Oil
Here are some of the main things to keep in mind when you’re storing motorcycle oil:
1. Shelf Life of Engine Oil
Both mineral oil and synthetic oil have a shelf life. If the oil is left unused for too long, it cannot go well, even if it hasn’t been opened. Typically, motor oil lasts around 3 to 5 years, but after that, its quality starts to degrade. So, always try to check the expiration date before using stored oil, and try not to keep it for too long.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Extreme Temperatures
Heat, cold, and direct sunlight can all damage the motor oil. It’s best to store oil in a well-ventilated, cool place away from heat sources. If oil is stored in an area that gets too hot or too cold, the oil molecules can break down, leading to increased friction and wear inside the engine when used.
3. Keep the Oil Sealed
Once you open a bottle of motor oil, it’s exposed to air, and that can cause oxidation. Always make sure the oil container is sealed tightly after use. If air gets in, the oil may start to degrade, and that can affect how well it works when you do an oil change.
4. Prevent Contaminants from Getting In
Dirty or contaminated oil can seriously damage your motorcycle’s engine. The oil contains detergents and other additives also that help clean the engine, but if the oil gets dirt or moisture in it, it can become harmful. Always store oil in its original container, and don’t let it get mixed with anything else.
5. Using Stored Oil
If you’ve been keeping used motor oil or an extra bottle of oil for a while, you need to be careful when using it again. Stored oil that has been kept for too long might not be as effective anymore, and you might need to replace it with new oil. Always check the oil for any signs of oxidation or contamination before using it.
Winter Storage Tips for Motorcycle Oil and Your Bike
If you are not going to use your bike during the winter, there are certain things you need to do to ensure the engine and the motor oil do not get badly affected.
Most especially when you are not careful with the type of climate your bicycle is exposed to, during winter, this is usually very unforgiving. Here are a few important winter storage tips:
1. Change the Oil Before Storing
Winter preparation also requires that you change the oil of your motorcycle right before you begin to store it. Used oil may contain some deposits that may cause some issues during the time of storage especially when in winter. The winter time puts a lot of stress on the engine, and the best way to prepare is to switch old oil with new oil completely.
2. Add a Fuel Stabilizer
The fuel can also become bad after some time has been taken, depending on the storage place that has been chosen. To avoid this, you need to pour some fuel stabilizer into the motorcycle’s fuel tank before you store your motorcycle for winter use. This prevents the fuel from degrading and thus causing issues such as carburetor clogs.
3. Cover Your Motorcycle
A motorcycle cover will shield your motorcycle from dust, moisture and virtually anything else that may harm the motorcycle lying around. This will help to protect your bike from corrosion and dried-out seals that may result from taking your bike through the rough winter season.
4. Store in a Well-Ventilated Area
Make sure you store your bike in a dry area and well-ventilated, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help keep both the bike and the motor oil in good condition during winter storage.
5. Remove the Battery and Check Other Fluids
When storing your bike for a long time, it’s a good idea to remove the battery and store it separately. You should also check your brake fluid, as it can absorb water over time, which can cause problems.
If you live in a place with harsh winter weather, following these motorcycle maintenance tips can help you avoid issues when you’re ready to ride your motorcycle again in the spring.
Why Improper Storage Damage Your Engine?
If you don’t store your motorcycle oil correctly, it can cause problems for your bike’s engine performance. For example, contaminated oil can get into the engine parts and cause corrosion or wear.
Oil that loses its viscosity due to improper storage won’t lubricate the engine properly, which can lead to increased friction and wear.
Without proper lubrication, the gaskets, rubber parts, and other internal components can break down. In extreme cases, this can even cause engine damage. The best way to avoid these issues is by following good storage practices and using high-quality motor oil from trusted brands like Fubex Lubricants.
How Long Should You Keep Stored Oil?
It would help if you were careful not to keep motorcycle oil for a long time. It is, therefore, shocking to learn that even synthetic oil, which can outlive mineral oil, is not exempt from losing its performance over time.
The customer should be informed that the oil should be changed in order to make the engine work effectively at that point. If it remains to unwind for an extended period, the oil starts to degrade, and its utilization worsens the engine. This means it is best to use new oil and never have it collected dust on a shelf for more than two years.
Bottom Line
It is quite important to store motorcycle engine oil properly so that you do not need to spend some cash on the machine being fixed most of the time. To maintain these aspects, the shelf life should be maintained, contaminants to be excluded, and your oil needs to be shielded from extreme temperatures; thus keeping the motorcycle at optimal performance.
Fubex Lubricants supplies the best motor oil for your bike and ensures that the bike is always in good shape. If you’re storing your bike for the winter or getting your bike ready for an oil change, know that the lubricant products Fubex Lubricant has to offer will provide protection and prevent your engine from wearing out quickly.
Here is what you need for your motorcycle – Fubex Lubricant – with dependable and long-lasting performance!
FAQs
Q1: How long can I store motorcycle engine oil before it expires?
Ans: If you keep the oil in a sealed container in a cool, safe place, it can last up to five years. But if you store it somewhere hot or damp, it might only be good for about two years.
Q2: What are the consequences of storing engine oil in extreme temperatures?
Ans: When it gets really hot (over 45°C), oil can break down faster and become thick and sticky. When it’s very cold (below –20°C), the oil can get waxy or have tiny bits in it. These changes can make the oil less effective for your motorcycle.
Q3: Are there any specific containers recommended for storing motorcycle engine oil?
Ans: Yes, it’s best to keep motorcycle engine oil in the container it came in with the lid closed tightly. If you need to move it to another container, make sure to use a clean plastic or metal one that’s made for storing oil. This helps stop leaks and keeps air, moisture, and light from ruining the oil.
