Oil Change Procedure for Motorcycles

An oil change procedure is typically done on engines that are used for transportation. It is not only vehicles with four or more wheels that need to be maintained in this aspect but also means of transportation that come in two or three wheels. Motorcycles also have engines that utilize lubricant to enable their engines to function and serve well. The procedure to replace this lubricant is highly similar to that of an automobile. Owners can actually do the replacement themselves and save themselves some expenses.
Accessing the Engine

During an oil change, there are several essential tools that one must have on hand. These include screwdrivers of varying sizes and lengths, Allen wrenches, socket wrench, pliers (long nose ones), a funnel, a crush washer, the right kind of oil and a new filter that is right for the engine. A filter removal tool is also another necessity when trying one’s hand at replacing the lubrication. The motorcycle engine is usually located where the individual sits on when astride it. Many experts advise to warm up the engine to ensure that the lubrication is easier to drain. In many cases, there are fiberglass or plastic components, called fairings, that cover the engine for safety purposes. The screwdriver can be used to remove this. Once the engine is exposed, the oil filler cap can be located and twisted up and out. It is usually a black plastic plug that may need to be removed using the long nose pliers. This is not the drain plug, which is located at the bottom of the casement and this will need to be removed as well to drain the used lubricant. Make sure that there is a container big enough to hold a few liters of the used lubricant which will be drained during the oil change procedure. The used crush washer is removed along with the drain plug and is replaced with a new one.

While draining, the removal of the filter may be done. A removal tool is used for this since it may be tightly screwed unto the engine. When the filter is removed, there should be an O-ring along with it and this is to be disposed of since the new one comes with a new O-ring. The O-ring ensures that there are no leaks from the filter and tightens the seal between the filter and the engine. Some particles may be present in the plastic mesh filter of the engine case; it is wise to remove these by wiping with a rag or blowing through with compressed air. The same cleaning goes for the other parts which are at the moment removed from the engine. Replacing the oil filter is easy and should be tightened by hand without the aid of the filter tool.

Once satisfied with the draining process, the drain plug should be replaced along with the new crush washer. Use the funnel to fill in the new unused lubrication up to the recommended amount on the engine. The oil change procedure is almost done at this point. Replace the filler cap and try to start the motorcycle, letting it idle for a few minutes before turning it off to check if the level is centered. The oil change is successful!