10. What type of oil is recommended for the Atomic 4, and how many quarts does it hold?

The earliest Universal Operation and Maintenance Manual contains a note that discourages the use of detergent oil when breaking in a brand new engine. All other subsequent Universal Owner's manuals recommend the use of S.A.E. 30 weight, detergent oil down to 32 degrees. 10 - 30 multiviscosity oil is also acceptable.

We have heard a few good reports from customers who have tried some of the modern low-friction synthetic oils, but we have done no research or testing of our own on any special oils. We believe that any good quality straight viscosity 30 weight oil is more than adequate for insuring a long life in our engines. Before any special oil is used, make certain that there are no manufacturer warnings on the can regarding the use of the oil in engines with built in clutch mechanisms (like our reversing gears). It is our understanding that the Slick 50 brand (for example) has such a warning.

In terms of capacity, when the engine is level and completely empty (as after an overhaul), it will take about 5 1/2 quarts to fill it. Given the rearward slant that most engines have after installation, and the fact that it is impossible to get all the oil out during an oil change, you will seldom need to add more than three or three and a half quarts of oil to refill the engine.

In all cases, the oil level in the crankcase should be maintained at the full mark on late model dipsticks, or to the upper mark on early model dipsticks (which is exactly the same level). The late model dipsticks are considerably easier to use and are interchangeable with the sticks on early model engines. - Updated: November 4, 2003