On 09/16/2015 9:32 PM, Ewald Böhm wrote:
I use the bar oil from Lowes, which is thick and syrupy, but I can't help
but think that thinner 30 weight motor oil should work.

I realize the motor oil might get flung off, but so does bar oil if you
ask me.

Anyway, has anyone ever RUINED a chainsaw by substituting motor oil for
bar oil, or is it just not something you've risked testing?

Saw vendors generally recommend SAE30/20 for summer/winter as acceptable
if specific bar oil isn't available.

I've used the old tractor oil (5W40 CF+) with an addition of about 1:4
to 1:6 STP or the like as a "sticky-ifier" for 20 yr or more. Seems
just fine.

I do filter the oil through paper filter when storing and let set and
decant the top for use to minimize any particulates.

I have (and do on occasion still) buy/use a commercial bar oil if happen
to run across a buy, but when a tractor change (on 100-hr intervals on
some) is 18 qt or more, seems a real waste for such low pressure usage
to just toss it...

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