How to Change Oil and Filter on a Harley Davidson Sportster

Changing the oil in a Harley Davidson Sportster motorcycle requires a little time. Without oil, the engine seizes and may blow up. With regular maintenance, you keep your Harley Davidson Sportster in prime condition. Even a green shade tree mechanic can perform this required maintenance with ease.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pan
• Funnel
• New oil filter
• H-D SAE 20W50 motorcycle oil
• Rag

1. Remove the oil filler cap and place pan under the oil tank drain hose. Loosen the worm drive clamp and pull the plug from the drain hose. Allow the oil tank to drain completely before you replace the plug and tighten the worm drive clamp.

2. Loosen the oil filter mount, remove the old oil filter and dispose of it properly. Set the new oil filter into the filter mount and pour approximately 4 oz. of new oil into the filter. Dip your finger in the oil and run it around the rim of the new filter. This helps reduce the time required to build pressure once the engine starts.

3. Put the filter mount back onto the Harley Davidson Sportster without spilling the oil. Wipe off any excess oil.

4. Use a funnel to pour new oil into the oil tank. Stop periodically to check your progress so you don't overfill the tank. When the tank reaches the full level, put the cap back on. Wipe off any excess oil.

5. Start the engine and verify the engine pressure. You know you did it right if the oil pressure light remains off. Check for any oil leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Customize your oil filter mount with an after market option.
• Let the engine cool completely before beginning.

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