Would you agree this has to be PAO based?

[G-MAN]

These are the specs for Harley-Davidson's Formula+ transmission/primary lube that was developed for their new 6-speed cruise drive, and the 5 speed version of it that comes in the Sportsters. Look at the pour point and flash point. With those numbers don't you think this has to be PAO based?

Harley Davidson Formula+
Application: recommended for heavy-duty service in manual transmissions where the manufacturer normally recommends either engine oils or GL-1 lubricants.
Specific Gravity: 0.857
Pounds per Gallon: 7.14
Viscosity, ASTM D 445,
cSt at 40°C: 168.04
cSt at 100°C: 20.10
Viscosity Index, ASTM D 2270: 139
Brookfield Viscosity, ASTM D 2983,
cP at -26°C - 28,800
cP at -40°C - n/m
Pour Point, ASTM D 97, °F (°C): -60 (-51)
Flash Point, ASTM D 92, °F (°C): 507 (264)

For comparison, Mobil 1 75w90 has a pour point of -46C and a flash point of 175C. Valvoline Synpower 75w90 has a pour point of -45C with a flash point of 163C.

 

[Pablo]

Why is the 40°C viscosity so high?

It does have the same PP as SVG (-51 (-60)), Flash 218 (424), but I guess SVT 75W-110 is closer match at 100°C with a PP of -48 (-54), Flash 220 (428).

Looks like an interesting blend, with a lower VI. What vis is it labeled as?

How much does it cost? That's good way to tell

 

[G-MAN]

Quote:

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Why is the 40°C viscosity so high?

It does have the same PP as SVG (-51 (-60)), Flash 218 (424), but I guess SVT 75W-110 is closer match at 100°C with a PP of -48 (-54), Flash 220 (428).

Looks like an interesting blend, with a lower VI. What vis is it labeled as?

How much does it cost? That's good way to tell

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It's $6.95 at the Harley dealer. No viscosity is listed. Here is the write up from the Harley web site:

Quote:

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FORMULA+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant

Developed with a proprietary mineral basestock formula, TESTED-CERTIFIED by Harley-Davidson® Motor Company. Formulated to provide lubricity for the anti-wear requirements of transmission gears. Formulated to maintain the coefficient of friction for proper clutch operation and provide adequate lubrication to the primary chain. Approved for use in all stages of transmission and primary chaincase life. Not for use in the crankcase as a motor oil.

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The "proprietary mineral basestock formula" is what gets me. I just can't buy that with the flash point so high and the pour point so low.

 

[bulwnkl]

Could a simple dose of PPD get you the PP that seems so impressive at first? High flash could be a side effect of a higher viscosity base stock, couldn't it?

 

[unDummy]

They probably use a heavy dose of pour point depressant and flash point surpressant. I'd love to see the PP/FP numbers once the oil has a few thousand miles on it.

PP in itself isn't a number worth much. Pumpability/crankability are important and mentioned with engines lubes but not gear oils.
What ASTM test do they have for "splash point" for splash lubed manuals?

The -40 number would be interesting.

$7 a quart with typical Harley profit margin alone would make be believe it is a groupII+/groupIII at best.

Fire point has more clout then flash point. Certain additives or components might boil off early and flash at a low temperature. Flashpoint has its purpose with 'fuels' but I don't care for it as a lubricant measurement.

Dig up an MSDS. Maybe some more info can be had.

Whats the recommended change interval for this fluid?

 

[G-MAN]

A "flash point surpressant"? You made that up.