Oil for Honda EU2000 - Page 1

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Oil for Honda EU2000

Posted: 9/18/2017 9:12:58 PM EDT

Somewhere along the line I decided that Mobil 1 5w30 synthetic was the way to go for my Honda 2000, presumably based on something I read here or elsewhere on the web. Now looking at the manual, and considering that it doesn't get terribly cold where I am, I'm wondering why not use 10w30 instead as recommended by Honda.

I store the generator in my basement, so even if it was truly cold outside, the oil isn't going to be below 60 degrees when I'm starting it.

Any reason to use 5w30 over 10w30 in my climate?

Posted: 9/18/2017 10:01:27 PM EDT

[#1]

I use 10/30 Mobil 1 in my Honda 2000
I have read as long as the outside temp doesn't go above 85 0r 90 degrees (don't hold me to that exact temp) that 5/30 is OK.
But 10/30 works in a broader range of outside temperatures. YMMV

ETA: I have since switched over to Amsoil 10/30 Small Engine Synthetic oil. See my other post further on down with pictures of the Amsoil.

Posted: 9/18/2017 10:10:39 PM EDT

[#2]

NYS climate varies greatly especially during the winter. Unless you're in Watertown, Plattsburgh, Saranac, etc.,the 10w-30 should be adequate.
I do like the full synthetic Mobil1. Change my EU2000i every 50/60 hours. It's only 13ozs of oil. Have over 3000 hours on each.

Posted: 9/18/2017 10:23:02 PM EDT

[#3]

Quote History

Quoted:
I use 10/30 Mobil 1 in my Honda 2000
I have read as long as the outside temp doesn't go above 85 0r 90 degrees (don't hold me to that exact temp) that 5/30 is OK.
But 10/30 works in a broader range of outside temperatures. YMMV

View Quote

Doesn't 5-30 have better range than 10-30?

Posted: 9/19/2017 6:54:03 AM EDT

[#4]

I figure if the people who designed and made the EU2000 don't know what's best for the engine. Then know one knows. Here's the owners manual.

Posted: 9/19/2017 9:00:31 AM EDT

[#5]

Quote History

Quoted:

Doesn't 5-30 have better range than 10-30?

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yeah if you need to get to -35 vs -30 on starts

Posted: 9/19/2017 9:08:29 AM EDT

[#6]

Quoted:
Any reason to use 5w30 over 10w30 in my climate?

View Quote

no

Posted: 9/19/2017 9:48:01 AM EDT

[#7]

Quote History

Quoted:

yeah if you need to get to -35 vs -30 on starts

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The w stands for winter on the oil label. 10w or 5w the lower the number in front of the w the better flowing in cold weather.
The 30 part is the viscosity at operating temperature. Both 5w30 and 10w30 have the same viscosity at operating temp but and when cold.

Posted: 9/19/2017 5:16:03 PM EDT

[#8]

Would 10w-40 be suitable for temperatures over 100F?

Posted: 9/19/2017 6:29:58 PM EDT

[#9]

I know it's not the same brand, but I just got a Generac GP6500e and after using the oil that came in it for 34hrs I switched it to Mobil 1 5w-30 Full Synthetic. This is what the online manual called for.

Posted: 9/19/2017 8:04:29 PM EDT

[#10]

Thanks all, that's what I thought. If anything, I'm more likely to need it in hot weather than cold, and it doesn't get too cold here. 10w30 it is.

Posted: 9/19/2017 8:17:48 PM EDT

[#11]

Quote History

Quoted:

The w stands for winter on the oil label. 10w or 5w the lower the number in front of the w the better flowing in cold weather.
The 30 part is the viscosity at operating temperature. Both 5w30 and 10w30 have the same viscosity at operating temp but and when cold.

View Quote

no kidding

the number I referenced are the temp differences of the two, since op has it in his basement the difference is meaningless

Posted: 9/21/2017 1:00:25 AM EDT

[#12]

I've been using Amsoil 10W-30 Synthetic Small Engine Oil in my EU2000. The generator runs quieter and noticeably cooler wigh this oil as compared to the same viscosity Mobil1. The Amsoil has a special formulation for small engines, like generators. It's reasonably priced too. Why not use the best to ensure reliable performance?
I also bought a drain tube extender for changing oil. A larger 5 gal. external tank with an adapter is on my list to purchase for the generator.

Posted: 9/21/2017 7:32:57 AM EDT

[#13]

Quote History

Quoted:
I've been using Amsoil 10W-30 Synthetic Small Engine Oil in my EU2000. The generator runs quieter and noticeably cooler wigh this oil as compared to the same viscosity Mobil1. The Amsoil has a special formulation for small engines, like generators. It's reasonably priced too. Why not use the best to ensure reliable performance?
I also bought a drain tube extender for changing oil. A larger 5 gal. external tank with an adapter is on my list to purchase for the generator.

View Quote

Well, if you're already using NATO fuel cans to store your gas...

I use 10W-30 Mobile1.

Posted: 9/21/2017 5:50:34 PM EDT

[#14]

That's slick Beowulf. I have a boat tank rigged up, but did you order that somewhere assembled, or build it yourself?

DOc

Posted: 9/21/2017 7:10:45 PM EDT

[#15]

Quote History

Quoted:
That's slick Beowulf. I have a boat tank rigged up, but did you order that somewhere assembled, or build it yourself?

DOc

View Quote

I know you asked someone else, but I thought I would share.
I got these extend time run tank kits at Northern tool for my EU2000 gens.
But since installing a tri fuel kit on the EU2000's I don't even run gasoline or the extend run gasoline tanks anymore, I run off a 20 LB propane bottle now.

Posted: 9/21/2017 7:51:32 PM EDT

[#16]

Quote History

Quoted:
That's slick Beowulf. I have a boat tank rigged up, but did you order that somewhere assembled, or build it yourself?

DOc

View Quote

Thanks, I put it together myself but it’s just a fuel line assembly like your boat tank. Instead of the tank you use the NATO can adaptor and use the can as the tank. The top tube gets the line to the generator and the bottom tube gets a pickup line long enough to reach the bottom of the can you’re using (long for 20L, short for 10L). Works great.

https://www.amazon.com/Sealey-Jerry-Adaptor-Single-Tube/dp/B00862XRB8

Posted: 9/21/2017 9:07:23 PM EDT

[#17]

Quote History

Quoted:
I've been using Amsoil 10W-30 Synthetic Small Engine Oil in my EU2000. The generator runs quieter and noticeably cooler wigh this oil as compared to the same viscosity Mobil1. The Amsoil has a special formulation for small engines, like generators. It's reasonably priced too. Why not use the best to ensure reliable performance?
I also bought a drain tube extender for changing oil. A larger 5 gal. external tank with an adapter is on my list to purchase for the generator.

View Quote

I have the extender too and it is very helpful when changing the oil. I also have the magnetic dipstick, and it has a coating of fine magnetic dust on it when I change the oil. Not sure it makes a huge difference, but it definitely pulls metal out of the oil and this generator is my primary back-up so it is cheap insurance.

Posted: 9/23/2017 8:55:42 PM EDT

[#18]

After reading this post and other post about generator oils I decided to change mine out from Mobil 1 10/30
synthetic oil, Over to Amsoil 10/30 Small Engine synthetic oil. I read that the Mobil 1 has taken some of the chemicals out of the oil over the years to make it more eco friendly. The Amsoil small engine oil is formulated to better cool and lubricate small air cooled engines and is not stripped down of its beneficial qualitys that make synthetics superior to dino oil.
It may be nothing more than BS, but I needed to change all my generators oil and the Amsoil dealer cut me a better deal than I could get the Mobil 1, so why not try it.

I bought a case of the Amsoil so as to have plenty on hand for all my small engines.

Both my EU2000's gets the Amsoil.

Both my EU 1000's get the new Amsoil also.

Posted: 9/27/2017 10:02:13 PM EDT

[#19]

I used up the whole case pictured above changing all my small engines oils.

I'm impressed with this Amsoil so much after running it I ordered two more cases so as to have plenty of oil on hand in case of a SHTF event. It came in today from Amsoil directly and I'm now a preferred customer that gets a discount with purchases. Yes I'm a prepper that goes overboard.
I own over 12 different apparatuses that have small engines. I changed all the oils out of them to Amsoil small engine 10/30 this last weekend so as to make it simpler to know what to install or change the oil with. The Amsoil seems to make my Zero turn lawn mower run cooler.

Posted: 9/28/2017 3:09:16 AM EDT

[#20]

Quote History

Quoted:
I know it's not the same brand, but I just got a Generac GP6500e and after using the oil that came in it for 34hrs I switched it to Mobil 1 5w-30 Full Synthetic. This is what the online manual called for.

https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/159722/Gen_Oil-311712.png

View Quote

Id guess thats not accurate

Posted: 9/28/2017 3:11:42 AM EDT

[#21]

Quote History

Quoted:

Well, if you're already using NATO fuel cans to store your gas...

http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL176/1171244/24547779/409349130.jpg

I use 10W-30 Mobile1.

View Quote

OK please post details on how you made that

Posted: 9/28/2017 7:50:32 AM EDT

[#22]

Quote History

Quoted:

I know you asked someone else, but I thought I would share.
I got these extend time run tank kits at Northern tool for my EU2000 gens.
But since installing a tri fuel kit on the EU2000's I don't even run gasoline or the extend run gasoline tanks anymore, I run off a 20 LB propane bottle now.

http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac216/Rockyriver1234/Home%20Made%20Battery%20Charger/DSCN1763.jpg

http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac216/Rockyriver1234/Home%20Made%20Battery%20Charger/DSCN1764.jpg

View Quote

Those sure look like they run hot

Posted: 9/28/2017 9:48:50 AM EDT

[#23]

Quote History

Quoted:

OK please post details on how you made that

View Quote

The link below goes to my original post here on AR15.com where I lay it out, including my original mistake with the fuel line. If any of the links are dead or you have any specific question just ask. It’s a work in progress and I’m currently in the process of changing to a different QD connector.

https://www.ar15.com/forums/outdoors/NATO_fuel_can_as_generator_auxiliary_fuel_tank/17-674002/

Posted: 9/28/2017 11:53:57 AM EDT

[#24]

Quote History

Quoted:

Those sure look like they run hot

View Quote

This photo was when I was putting togeather the enclosure and it was not finished with vent holes nor was it painted.
The enclosure is for use during bad weather such as ice storms or snow storms where as I have lost my power. So with that said it would be cold outside if I was using this enclosure.
I assure you it has good ventilation now.

Posted: 9/28/2017 12:22:06 PM EDT

[#25]

Here in FL the main problem is heat so I just use HD30 in all my and my family's generators.
My past conversation with Generac, Champion and Honda all indicated that would be fine.

Posted: 9/30/2017 5:02:57 PM EDT

[#26]

As something of a testament to the good engineering of the Honda 2000 and the Champion ~3500 watt remote start gennys...

Since ~2008 we haven't protected either, while sitting and running, exposed, in rain and snow, -other than to brush snow off of them, and haven't had a problem.

So, like using Stable and Amsoil ---that PROVES it's the correct thing to do to make sure your genny always runs well...

Posted: 9/30/2017 8:29:19 PM EDT

[#27]

Quote History

Quoted:

I know you asked someone else, but I thought I would share.
I got these extend time run tank kits at Northern tool for my EU2000 gens.
But since installing a tri fuel kit on the EU2000's I don't even run gasoline or the extend run gasoline tanks anymore, I run off a 20 LB propane bottle now.

http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac216/Rockyriver1234/Home%20Made%20Battery%20Charger/DSCN1763.jpg

http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac216/Rockyriver1234/Home%20Made%20Battery%20Charger/DSCN1764.jpg

View Quote

Just wondering what the benefit it to paralleling two EU2000? I understand why one would parallel a EU2000 and EU2000 Companion but don't get the 2 EU2000s.

Posted: 9/30/2017 9:57:37 PM EDT

[#28]

Quote History

Quoted:

Just wondering what the benefit it to paralleling two EU2000? I understand why one would parallel a EU2000 and EU2000 Companion but don't get the 2 EU2000s.

View Quote

I have two refrigerators that run off my EU2000's
A fan, A TV, A satellite dish, A few lights.
I hate having to unplug the fridges and running one at a time, the plugs are super hard to get too.
Plus if I'm running one EU2000 and the fridge kicks in while watching TV with Satellite and a light or two on it trips the electronic breaker on the EU2000.
With two gens running everything runs smooth as silk.

Posted: 10/2/2017 12:34:57 AM EDT

[#29]

So is Mobil 1 5w30 gtg for the Honda? Manual recommends 10w30 but it looks like 5w30 is acceptable as well per their temperature chart in the back. It occasionally gets down to -25 here and if I get the transfer switch installed for the gas furnace, I think that I could run the heat in the winter should we lose power on those bitterly cold days. The vehicles and snow blower all take 5W30, so using it in the genny would mean that I can stick with one oil for everything, plus it's on sale at costco this month.

Posted: 10/2/2017 6:04:01 AM EDT

[#30]

Quote History

Quoted:
So is Mobil 1 5w30 gtg for the Honda? Manual recommends 10w30 but it looks like 5w30 is acceptable as well per their temperature chart in the back. It occasionally gets down to -25 here and if I get the transfer switch installed for the gas furnace, I think that I could run the heat in the winter should we lose power on those bitterly cold days. The vehicles and snow blower all take 5W30, so using it in the genny would mean that I can stick with one oil for everything, plus it's on sale at costco this month.

View Quote

According to the manual 5/30 is fine. But IMHO stick with Synthetic oil, like I see you are doing.

Posted: 10/5/2017 1:45:12 AM EDT

[#31]

Quote History

Quoted:
I used up the whole case pictured above changing all my small engines oils.

I'm impressed with this Amsoil so much after running it I ordered two more cases so as to have plenty of oil on hand in case of a SHTF event. It came in today from Amsoil directly and I'm now a preferred customer that gets a discount with purchases. Yes I'm a prepper that goes overboard.
I own over 12 different apparatuses that have small engines. I changed all the oils out of them to Amsoil small engine 10/30 this last weekend so as to make it simpler to know what to install or change the oil with. The Amsoil seems to make my Zero turn lawn mower run cooler.

http://i901.photobucket.com/albums/ac216/Rockyriver1234/Generator%20Miscellaneous/BBB51B6C-16FE-450C-9019-DE218E073039_zpsd7vdqioz.jpg

View Quote

I've been using Amsoil in all of my vehicles. Great oil. I love their oil filters too.

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Oil for Honda EU2000

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