RMRACER,
We understand that you are trying to get an old bike running for little to no cost but some things must be done right. Two that come to mind are brakes and suspension, and everything else for that matter.
Please get the Haynes manual, it explains things much clearer than the factory manual.
Get some Kerosene and a hand pump spray bottle, it is the parts cleaner for everything.
You are in a tough spot, your dad sounds like he has some backyard mechanical experience and the boys here are in the know. You are stuck in the middle between the man you must respect and sounds like he is behind you, and some guys on the net. Fortunately for you, we can ease the frequency that things are going to fail with the bandage maintenance practices your dad appears to favour over a couple bucks.
The reason I'm saying this is, yes you can use engine oil in your forks. BUT, it is only in a pinch, until you can get the correct oil and do a proper "long term" job with the proper tools/lubes/nuts/bolts.
I've seen some bad things happen last season both on the trails and at the track because of mechanical neglect.
There is great info in this thread and on this site. "nickyd" sums it up nice, "search" on whatever topic you and our dad are ready to tackle and have fun doing it together.