Gas in oil

[dgude]

I have recently noticed a gasoline smell in my oil. At my 1k service the tech noticed a small "swirl" of liquid in the drained oil (suspect it is gas). I appreciate any thoughts?

This bike runs great, blows no smoke. I wonder if the F/I is not releasing pressure and backflow is leaking down cylinder when shut off.

2002 v-rod 1200 miles, SE2 exhaust, KN Air, ECM Map

Thanks,
Drew

[ChopperSteve]

Hello Drew:
Whats your gas mileage like? Does your oil level go up?
Best: Steve

[Hutch]

I've only changed my oil once , myself------and noticed the same thing-----i thought the smell was just from the fact it is such a heavier oil------the dealer has since changed it , but they didn't raise any flag.

Hutch

[VRodDrew]

Both engine lubricating oil and gasoline are introduced into the combustion chamber when the engine is running - so it is not impossible that a *small* amount of gasoline could end up mixed with the oil.

The most common cause of oil becoming diluted with gasoline is idling - when the engine is cold there are greater clearances between the piston rings and the cylinder walls, and this greater clearance allows small amounts of unburned fuel to slip down into the crankcase. For this reason, most experts recommend trying to avoid excessive idling. With a EFI bike like the V-Rod, you can usually start her up, and in the time it takes to zip your jacket and adjust your glasses, she's ready to ride - obviously don't push the engine too hard till its warmed up - but its best to warm the engine through moderate riding, rather than sitting at idle.

Since gasoline is lighter than lubricating oil, any gasoline mixed with the oil will tend to float on top. For that reason, when you drain your oil and look at the container even a few milliliters of partially burned gasoline will be very apparent. Obviously, this dilution of the oil effects its lubricating properties - as well as the corrosive effects of the other nasty chemicals in partially burned gasoline.

Change your oil frequently - 2000 miles is (IMHO) the absolute maximum you should ride between changes.

[mvp]

I noticed this too with my V-Rod. The dealer said the Revolution engine and it's common sump is just different from other Harley engines - more like a car engine. So I took a whiff from my car's dipstick and it smelled the same way - alittle bit of a gasoline odor. The dealer said if the V-Rod is still performing well (and no change) then don't sweat it. So I'm not