Kamis, 26 Mei 2011

How to Change the Oil on a Harley Davidson

How to Change the Oil on a Harley Davidson

Like cars, Harley-Davidson motorcycles need routine oil changes to keep running at their best. Ideally, you should change your oil every 3,000 miles or so. Harley owners often pride themselves on their independence, and knowing how to change your own oil is a significant part of that. You can change it on the go without having to worry about finding a service station or paying an attendant. It rarely takes long and the process is extremely easy once you know the steps.

Difficulty:
Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

  • Oil pan Pliers Socket wrench Siphon Oil filter Motor oil
    • 1

      Slide an oil pan underneath the drain plug on your Harley's oil tank.

    • 2

      Hold a siphon beneath the drain plug and then -- with your free hand -- unscrew the plug using a socket wrench. The oil should drain out through the siphon and into the oil pan.

    • 3

      Replace the drain plug and tighten it into position when the oil has completely drained out of it.

    • 4

      Remove the cylinder containing the oil filter from its housing, which is usually located under the Harley's seat. You can usually remove the seat by unbolting it with a socket wrench or similar tool and then setting it aside. Be sure to keep track of the bolts and screws so that you can attach the seat again when you're done.

    • 5

      Disconnect the latch on the cylinder and pull the oil filter out with a pair of pliers. Slide a new filter into position the same way.

    • 6

      Close the cylinder and place it back into the housing, then place the Harley's seat back into position and bolt it tightly in place.

    • 7

      Uncap the oil tank and fill it with new motor oil, then seal the tank again.

Tips & Warnings

  • The ideal time to change your Harley's oil is after the engine has cooled down for a few minutes, but before it goes totally cold. Any earlier, and the heat from the engine can burn you. Any later, and contaminants in the oil will have time to settle, reducing the effectiveness of the oil change. Err on the side of waiting if you're concerned about burns, but if the oil is still warm, then the oil change will be a lot more thorough. Specifics may vary slightly depending upon what model of Harley you have. Check your owner's manual to see if you should make any adjustments to the way you change your oil.

  • Never attempt to change the oil while your Harley Davidson is running. It's impractical and dangerous.

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