Assemble Tools:
- Wrench set
- Oil pan
- New oil filter (if desired)
- New engine oil (Refer to your Softail's owner manual for the correct oil type and quantity)
- Funnel
1. Safety First:
- Ensure the motorcycle is parked on a flat and level surface.
- Allow the engine to cool down to avoid any risk of burns.
2. Locate the Oil Drain Plug:
- Underneath your motorcycle, locate the oil drain plug. It's usually located near the bottom of the engine, on the left side.
3. Place an Oil Pan:
- Position an oil pan of suitable size directly beneath the oil drain plug to collect the old oil.
4. Loosen the Oil Drain Plug:
- Use the appropriate wrench to loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Be careful as some oil might start draining out.
5. Allow Oil to Drain:
- Allow all the old oil to drain out of the engine. This might take a few minutes, so be patient.
6. Replace Oil Drain Plug:
- Once the oil has drained, replace the oil drain plug. Tighten the plug securely.
7. Locate the Oil Filter:
- On some Softail models, the oil filter is located near the oil drain plug. If your motorcycle has an oil filter, you might want to replace it at the same time as the oil change.
8. Remove the Oil Filter:
- Use the oil filter wrench to loosen the oil filter.
- Carefully remove the old oil filter and make sure the gasket comes out with it.
- Apply a thin film of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before screwing it into the engine. Hand-tighten the new oil filter until it is snug. Do not overtighten the oil filter.
9. Reinstall:
- If you accessed the Softail's primary oil tank by removing the derby cover from the primary or from removing the transmission side cover, replace it before proceeding with refilling the oil tank.
10. Add New Oil:
- Open the oil fill port, found near the top of your engine, usually on the right side.
- Use the funnel to add the recommended amount of new oil to the engine as per the motorcycle's owner manual.
11. Check Oil Level:
- Start your motorcycle and let it run for a few seconds to circulate the new oil.
- Turn off the engine and wait a minute or so.
- Use the dipstick located near the oil fill port to check the oil level and ensure it's within the recommended range.
12. Check for Leaks:
- Look underneath the bike to make sure there are no leaks from the oil drain plug or oil filter.
Your Harley Davidson Softail should now have its oil changed and ready for a smooth ride. Follow your motorcycle's maintenance schedule for recommended oil change intervals.
