How to Switch Motorcycle Oil to Synthetic Oil

Switch to synthetic oil for better lubrication over convential oil.

Synthetic oils provide superior lubricating properties and longer service intervals than conventional hydrocarbon-based oils. Lab chemists can tailor pure synthetic oils for specific uses, as the oils are entirely composed of artificial components. Some "synthetic" oils are not true synthetics, and are actually super-refined hydrocarbon oil. Check the manufacturer's information to ensure that the oil is a true synthetic. True synthetic oils resist the effects of heat and shear for much longer than conventional oils. Some manufacturers boast a 25,000 mile or 1-year service interval, which is much longer than the 3,000 mile or 3-month service interval required with conventional hydrocarbon oil.

Things You'll Need

• Catch pan
• Wrench
• New drain plug gasket
• Oil-filter wrench
• New oil filter
• Owner's manual

Instructions

1. Start the engine and warm the bike up to operating temperature. Park the bike on level ground and support it on the jiffy stand (kickstand) on hard, level ground.

2. Remove the engine oil filler cap. Place a catch pan under the engine oil drain plug. Remove the engine oil drain plug with a wrench and allow the oil to drain fully from the engine.

3. Replace the engine oil drain plug gasket and insert the plug into the drain hole. Tighten the plug securely with a wrench.

4. Remove the engine-oil filter with a filter wrench, Buford tool or by hand. Wipe the filter base with a clean shop rag to remove any old oil, debris and the old filter gasket, which may be stuck to the base.

5. Lubricate the new oil filter gasket with clean oil. Prime the oil filter by filling it up with new synthetic oil if the engine is a turbocharged model. Install the oil filter onto the engine and tighten it by hand until the gasket contacts the base plate. Tighten the filter another 1/2 to 3/4 turn by hand. Do not overtighten the filter, or you may split the rubber gasket. Wipe up any spilled oil with a clean shop rag.

6. Add the appropriate amount and weight of synthetic oil to the engine. Refer to your owner's manual for details on oil viscosity and capacity.

7. Install the engine oil filler cap and start the engine. Observe the oil filter base for leaks. Turn the engine off. Check the oil level and top off, if necessary.

Resources

• University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture: Fuel and Lubricants for Small Engines (PPP)
• Harley-Davidson: SYN3 Engine, Primary and Transmission Oil FAQ's
• Kawasaki: Accelerate, June 2007- Tech Tips, Understanding Your Motorcycle Oil (PDF)