Tips For Changing Your Own Oil
Changing your motorcycle's oil is essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity. Oil changes are one of the easiest maintenance jobs on a bike, so almost anyone can pick it up in no time. Not only is it fairly simple, but it can save you some money over time. Plus, a DIY oil change is a great way to bond with your motorcycle. As they say, if you take care of your bike, it will take care of you.
Use The Correct Tools
Before starting your oil change, make sure you have the correct tools and equipment on hand. Here, you’ll find an oil change equipment layout that will work for most motorcycles. It’s vital to check your motorcycle service manual for the step-by-step process before you begin to ensure you have everything you need.
Double Check Oil Type and Amount
Before purchasing new oil, be sure to double-check the type and amount of oil you need. Motorcycles are very sensitive to the type of oil used, so just any oil off the shelf of your local auto parts store won’t cut it. My personal favorite oil brand for most applications is Motul.
Inspect the Oil
Always start with a clean, open-top oil drain pan. Once you are finished draining the oil from your engine, you can inspect it for any metal shavings. Inspecting your used oil can help catch internal engine issues. If it looks like a glitter bomb went off in your pan, there are likely bigger issues going on inside your engine. You can send oil samples off to a company like Blackstone Labs for further analysis, if you suspect you might have a problem.
Pre-Fill The Oil Filter
When you start your motorcycle after an oil change, the engine must circulate some oil right away to prevent internal component wear. A pre-filled filter ensures oil begins circulating as soon as the engine starts, minimizing the time the engine runs without lubrication. To do this, saturate the new filter with fresh oil. You can pour the oil directly into the center of the filter. Pre-filling improves oil pressure stability, ensuring your oil pump achieves pressure faster.
Don’t Overtighten
It’s important not to overtighten anything on your motorcycle, and it’s no different with your oil filter. Whether it’s a spin-on filter or a filter hidden behind a door, overtightening can cause the filter not to… Well, filter. Be sure to check your service manual for torque specs, and use a torque wrench when reinstalling components.
Log Your Regular Maintenance
Maintenance is a crucial aspect of motorcycle ownership, and you always want to ensure your bike is functioning optimally. Whether you do your own maintenance, take it to a dealer, or have a trusted friend as your mechanic, keep a log of your maintenance schedule. Pick up a small notebook and record the date, odometer reading, maintenance performed, and which parts you purchased for the job. Having a maintenance record can keep you from missing important maintenance intervals.