How to do an oil change on a Harley Davidson Softail?
Follow along as Bob teaches you how to drain the fluids on your Harley Softail, including the primary, engine oil and the transmission drain plugs. You’ll also learn how to expertly reinstall the oil filter, and which parts must be replaced each time you perform a Harley Davidson oil change and service your motorcycle.
What kind of oil do you use for transmission on a Harley Davidson?
So those opting for a gear lube thinking that they are using thicker oil, really are not. Those using an 80W or 75W-90 in their transmissions are actually using a much thinner oil. The 20W-50 motorcycle oil’s viscosity is right in the “sweet spot” for optimum operation in all three holes and the volumes of positive reviews we receive back this up.
Is it OK to use automatic transmission fluid in a Harley?
As for the use of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in Harley primary chaincases, we have heard that some riders do this, but we do not recommend this option. Again, let’s look at actual viscosity numbers to back this up. The viscosity of a typical ATF at 100°C is 7.5 centistokes.
Follow along as Bob teaches you how to drain the fluids on your Harley Softail, including the primary, engine oil and the transmission drain plugs. You’ll also learn how to expertly reinstall the oil filter, and which parts must be replaced each time you perform a Harley Davidson oil change and service your motorcycle.
Is it necessary to change transmission fluid in Softail?
Aside from properly shifting gears, keeping fresh transmission fluid installed in your Softail is the best way to keep your transmission problem-free. The process is fairly simple and may save you hundreds when you do it yourself!
Where do you change the transmission fluid on a Harley Davidson?
Overheated transmission fluid from racing or engine overheating damages the fluid, making replacement mandatory. Changing the transmission fluid can be easily accomplished in the garage at home with basic tools.
How often should I change my transmission oil?
What fluid works best for you depends on factors like transmission wear, type of riding, and climate. Owners in colder climates will benefit more from thinner weight oil. Synthetic fluids are recommended over conventional types. Remember to replace the fluid every 5,000 miles.
Where is the oil drain plug on a Harley Davidson?
The oil drain plug (or bolt, rather) is located under you bike in the center, in line with these rear foot pegs. Use a 5/8″ deep well socket to remove the oil drain plug. Make sure that you have your drain pan in place before you remove the plug. This part is where the bike should be level to get as much of the old oil out as possible. Figure 3.
How much oil should I put in my drain plug?
Torque the drain plug to 14 to 20 pounds, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. The age-old question is what kind of oil you should use. Harley recommends their specific oil of course, but any motorcycle-rated oil will work just fine and you can choose between synthetic or regular Dino.
How big is the oil filter on a Harley Davidson?
Harley Davidson Oil Filter Fitment Chart Make Model Year CC Oil Filter Harley Davidson 74ci V-Twin 55-56 1200 HF178 Harley Davidson FL / FLH / FX 74ci 67-74 1200 HF178 Harley Davidson FLD Switchback 12-16 1690 HF171 Harley Davidson FLDE Deluxe 18 1690 HF171
Do you change the oil in the oil filter?
If you’re changing your engine oil, it makes sense to change the oil filter too. An oil filter removes tiny particles from the oil, helping to keep the oil fresher and work to its best ability for longer.
What do I need to know about BMW oil filter?
We’ve listed the make and model of bike, its engine capacity and production years, so that you can be double-sure you’re ordering the right filter.
Where is the oil drain plug on a Softail?
On Softail models the engine oil drain plug is under the right side of the motorcycle’s frame, near the rear wheel. Dyna and Touring models have their oil drain plugs under the transmission housing.
How do you change the oil in a Dyna?
Dyna and Touring models have their oil drain plugs under the transmission housing. Drain the engine oil into an oil pan. Replace the drain plug’s O-ring, then screw it into place after the oil has drained. Tighten the drain plug to 18 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Unscrew the oil filter from the front of the engine, using an oil filter wrench.
How much does it cost to change oil on a Harley?
A bike lift such as this will set you back less than $200 and it will pay for itself after just a couple of oil changes. Warm up your bike a little, as this will help thin the oil and let it flow faster. Once the bike has been running for a couple of minutes, shut it down and then remove the integrated oil fill cap and dipstick.
When to replace the drain plug on a Harley Davidson?
If the engine oil or transmission oil drain plug allocation becomes stripped on a touring model, the entire oil pan may need to be replaced. This holds true for, both, Twin Cams and M8 Touring models. If the primary drain plug allocation becomes stripped, the inner primary case may need replacement.
When to remove oil plugs on Harley Davidson?
It is of utmost importance to remove the engine oil and transmission oil fill plugs along with the primary derby cover; either before draining the oils or before the drain plugs are reinstalled. This will help to avoid confusion as to whether or not the oil has been replenished before attempting to start the motorcycle.
If the engine oil or transmission oil drain plug allocation becomes stripped on a touring model, the entire oil pan may need to be replaced. This holds true for, both, Twin Cams and M8 Touring models. If the primary drain plug allocation becomes stripped, the inner primary case may need replacement.
It is of utmost importance to remove the engine oil and transmission oil fill plugs along with the primary derby cover; either before draining the oils or before the drain plugs are reinstalled. This will help to avoid confusion as to whether or not the oil has been replenished before attempting to start the motorcycle.
Torque the drain plug to 14 to 20 pounds, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. The age-old question is what kind of oil you should use. Harley recommends their specific oil of course, but any motorcycle-rated oil will work just fine and you can choose between synthetic or regular Dino.