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If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, you know how important it is to take care of the bike and using the best oil for Harley Davidson Twin Cam is apart of it. Taking good care of the motorcycle affects its performance and its durability. If you want to have optimal performance and durability from your engine, then it matters what type of oil you use and how frequently you change it.
For some motorcycle engines, the manufacturer has specified the type of oil that you should use. The oil meets the specific needs of the engines, which enhances its performance. Also, the kind of oil that you choose for your engine will depend on your riding patterns. How far do you ride? Does your engine get too hot as a result of the distance?
As such, if you own a Harley Davidson engine, you would wish the best for it. Not only will you feel special riding it around, but you also get exceptional performance.
Harley Davidson brand has a variety of engines on their motorcycle including evolution and twin-cam engines. The engines vary not only in structure but also in power output. It, therefore, matters the type of oil that you use on each engine.
So, which type of oil is best to use in a Harley Davidson twin cam engine?
In this article, you will learn more about the Harley Davidson twin cam engine and the best oil to use on it.
A Snapshot of our Top picks
Harley Davidson Twin Cam Engine
The Harley Davidson twin cam motorcycle engine was introduced in 1998. The discussion for a twin cam engine started in 1992 when the market needed an increase in power over the evolution v-twin motorcycle engine.
Motorcycle enthusiasts had liked the modification on the evolution engine and the power outcome that came with it. The deliberations for new engine design got underway. The new engine was coded p-22 which would be known as the Twin Cam. The production of the win cam engine was slated for 1997, but it was delayed after the styling department rejected the oil cooler. The engine also had high oil temperatures.
There was an increasing expectation for the giant brand to make an air-cooled engine with its customary reliability. The new engine would also meet the federal requirements on noise and emissions regulations.
Although the Harley Davidson twin cam engine differs from the evolution engine, they have a variety of similarities. For instance, both Harley Davidson engines have the same design with a v-twin configuration at 450. They are also air-cooled, and their valve activation is using pushrods.
Additionally, the crankshafts of the evolution and twin cam have a single pin with a fork and knife arrangement for the connecting rods.
The air-cooled twin cam engine has more cooling capabilities. It comes with increased cooling fin areas and an oil jet. The oil jet sprays the pistons at the bottom, which enhances the cooling capabilities of the engine.
The transmission and the engine of a twin cam engine are directly bolted to each other. Below the transmission assembly is where the oil tank of the twin cam is located. The engine has two cams per cylinder, and each cam has two lobes. The one cam per cylinder allows for pushrods to have a better alignment with the rocker arms.
To meet the EPA noise regulations, the twin cam drive uses a silent chain.
Which Harley Davidson engines are twin cam?
Twin cam 88
The twin cam 88 was introduced in 1999. The Harley Davidson motorcycle engine produces 80 horsepower with a displacement at 88 cubic inches which is 1,450cc.
The twin cam 88 is an air-cooled engine, and it uses an overhead valve that is activated by pushrods.
Twin cam 88B
The Twin Cam 88 motorcycle offered enhanced power output and performance. However, it had a design challenge as it wouldn’t fit in the Softail bikes without redesigning the bike. The engine came with a rubber mount which was essential due to the increased vibration and large pistons. The Softail bike has a tight frame which did not offer room for the rubber mount.
You also needed some modification on the Softail bike as it had a vertical frame that runs from the top rail to the bottom center.
As such, the company came up with the Twin Cam 88B motorcycle engine which was introduced in 2000. The engine has a design to fit effortlessly in the Softline bikes without modification of the bike. On the case of the engine are balance shafts mounted in front and at the back of the crank.
Twin cam 96
The Twin Cam 96 was introduced in 2007. The engine has more torque from a longer 4.375 inches which is 1,584 cc.
The other twin cam engines include the Twin Cam 103 which has 1,690 cc and the latest Twin Cam with 1,801 cc.
How long will a Twin Cam 88 last?
With proper maintenance, a Twin Cam 88 motorcycle engine can take you up to 150,000 to 200,000 miles. As such, you can enjoy your road trips with your friends and loved ones without worrying that the bike will break down anytime. Note, how long a Twin Cam 88 or any other engine will last depends on a variety of factors.
For instance, it will depend on your riding pattern. How many miles do you ride in a day? Do you ride in traffic jams frequently? For the long-distance rider, the engine gets very hot. As such, if you don’t take good care of it and ensure it has the necessary cooling system, it might not last you for long.
On the other hand, if you ride in short distances, your engine has no time to warm up well. You start the engine, start moving, and before it can warm up the oil, you turn it off. Thus, the oil has no enough time to circulate inside the engine and lubricate the moving parts.
If there is no proper lubrication, there is friction between the moving parts which minimizes the lifespan of the engine.
How long the engine will last will also depend on the type of oil that you use on the engine. For instance, you can decide to use either synthetic, conventional or partial-synthetic oils.
Conventional oils will cost you the least when buying. However, they don’t come with any additives that help them to meet the specific needs of the engine. Conventional oils are formulated by purifying crude oil. As such, no special elements are added to offer better protection for the engine.
Thus, if you use conventional oils, your engine will not get optimal protection when it heats up. Conventional oils are known to disintegrate under high temperatures. Also, their viscosity does not allow for easy flow in the morning or when it is cold. This exposes your engine to friction and wear, which reduces its lifespan.
Inside the engine are oil deposits and other particles due to wear and tear. The deposits lead to the formation of sludge in the engine, which also affects its durability. Therefore, you should use an oil that will clean up the engine. Conventional oils don’t come with cleaning agents. As such, it doesn’t prolong the lifespan of your engine.
Partial synthetic oils are a combination of conventional and synthetic oils. They are more effective than conventional oils but not as effective as full synthetic oils. Use of partial-synthetic oils may prolong the durability of your engine better than conventional oils.
For the best protection and performance, use synthetic oils. Synthetic oils are artificially formulated with additives to offer better protection and performance. Synthetic oils keep your engine clean and also offer the necessary protection in all weather conditions.
The synthetic oils also come with rust-resistant properties. This ensures your engine is safe from damage even when it is idle for long.
3 of our picks that you can use in your Harley Davidson Twin Cam
1. Mobil 1 96936 20W50 V-Twin oil
- Product Type:Auto Accessory
- Item Package Dimension:7.625 " L X8.125 " W X9.625 " H
Your search for the best oil for your Harley Davidson bike ends when you get the Mobil 1 96936 20W50 V-Twin oil. The oil is ideal for use where the transmission and the engine are separate or where the engine and transmission are common.
The Mobil 1 oil is an excellent choice when you expect optimal performance and acceleration from your motorcycle.
It is suitable for use in traffic jam situations and also long-distance riding. It comes with properties that allow it to operate where conventional oils wouldn’t.
What we like
We like that the Mobil 1 synthetic oil is long lasting. It comes with properties that enable it to stand harsh riding conditions such as in traffic jams and long-distance riding.
Although it is expensive while buying it, the Mobil 1 synthetic oil ends up saving you a lot. You enjoy longer draining intervals and better fuel efficiency.
If you want to experience an increase in the performance of your bike, the Mobil 1 oil is the way to go.
What we don’t like
The upfront cost of the synthetic oil may be unaffordable for some users who may wish to experience its benefits.
2. Amsoil SAE 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil
One challenge when looking for the best oil for your bike is getting one that will function in all weather conditions. Amsoil synthetic oil is the best option as it offers protection for your air-cooled engine at all times.
When it is cold or during start up in the morning, the oil circulates fast to lubricate the moving parts of the engine. The oil also resists breakdown in high temperatures conditions to offer protection when the engine heats up.
It also comes with cleaning agents that help to keep your engine in crisp condition for enhanced performance and durability. The oil prevents the formation of sludge that would weaken your engine.
What we like
The oil has a formulation with the best additives that makes it ideal for use in your air-cooled Harley Davidson bike. Harley Davidson bikes are hardworking, and therefore they generate a lot of heat. The thermal properties in the Amsoil synthetic oil ensure your engine is protected even when it heats up.
We also like that the oil is oxidation resistant. This prevents the formation of acids and other corrosive material in the engine. Thus, you are assured of durability.
The oil also keeps your engine clean for enhanced performance.
The synthetic oil comes with a sprout that makes it easy to pour oil into the engine.
What we don’t like
It is a challenge trying to estimate the amount of oil you have poured in the engine.
3. Red Line 42504 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil – 1 Quart Bottle, 4 Pack
- Complete kit for motorcycles equipped with Evolution, Milwaukee-Eight and Twin-Cam engines*
- 2007-up H-D motorcycle with the 96-inch and larger Twin Cam engines, users must purchase one extra bottle of Primary Chain Case Oil to meet this engine’s 38 oz (45 oz dry) capacity, compared to the 32 oz wet capacity of a Milwaukee-Eight, Evolution or V-Twin case
The Redline synthetic oil is formulated for use in high revving engines, including motor cross and sportbikes. It reduces the thinning effect that comes about due to the high temperatures in the engine.
It also comes with unique anti-wear properties that prevent wear and tear inside the engine. Thus, you are sure of a durable engine.
The bottle of the Redline synthetic oil has an efficient design with a sprout that makes it easy to pour oil into the engine.
What we like
The synthetic oil is ideal for use in high revving engines, including sports bikes.
It comes with thermal properties that enable it to withstand the high temperatures in air-cooled engines. You, therefore, enjoy extended drain intervals.
We also like that it comes with an efficient bottle design.
What we don’t like
The high price makes it unaffordable for some people.
A Little More on the Best Oil for Harley Davidson Twin Cam
Tips to keep your engine in shape
1. Follow the owner’s manual
No one knows your engine better than the manufacturer does. Thus, it is vital that you take the owner’s considerations and instructions seriously.
For instance, there are engine manufacturers who also make their own types of oil. They recommend that you should use the specific type of oil on the engine for you to get the best results. If you have such a recommendation, make sure to follow it.
Not following the instructions may also void your warranty in case of any eventuality. The owner’s instructions may also include the service intervals and how you can know that your fluids are the right level. They also guide on the color, and the best grade of fluids to use.
2. Have a pro service
Even if your bike sounds well and it is also offering you optimal performance, it is vital that you have a professional look at it. Also, instead of doing the maintenance yourself, you can have a professional do the servicing. That way, they can notice some details that only a professional can.
In case of an emergency, you may not have the luxury of having your professional mechanic solve your issue. Nevertheless, you can have the pro look at it later. This ensures that your engine is at its best service all times, which enhances durability.
3. Run your engine often
If the engine doesn’t run for a while, the oil drains and settles at the bottom of the engine. This leaves the engine parts exposed. As such, they are prone to rust which significantly reduces the lifespan of your engine.
Therefore, you should run your engine from time to time, even though you are not riding. With that, the oil will circulate and lubricate the engine parts. The lubrication forms a protective cover that protects the engine parts from rusting.
4. Listen to the engine
Even though you may not be a professional in engine matters, you wouldn’t fail to notice when there is something out of the ordinary. If you can notice the fault at an early stage, it would be helpful to deal with it before it escalates.
Also, check your engine as many times as possible. Check the essential fluids such as the oil, transmission fluid, and other parts.
5. Use an effective oil
The kind of oil that you use on your engine is essential. It means the difference between how healthy your engine can be and vice versa.
There are a variety of oils that you can use on your bike, including conventional and synthetic oils. Conventional oils are the cheapest but may not offer the best protection and performance.
On the other hand, synthetic oils will cost you a lot to purchase. However, they offer you the best protection for your engine. They come with cleaning agents that keep your engine clean. As the oil circulates in the engine, it does away with all deposits and sludge leaving your engine clean.
Also, the oil doesn’t disintegrate when the engine heats up. It, therefore, offers the best performance even for long-distance riders. This enhances the health and durability of your engine.
What is a Twin Cam B motor?
Have you heard of people referring to the Harley Davidson twin cam motors as either A or B?
Do you know what it means?
When Harley Davidson upgraded from an evolution engine to a twin cam engine, they came up with the Twin Cam 88 engine. The twin cam means the engine has two cylinders designed in a v-twin configuration at 450. The engine activates the valves with pushrods, and it is also air-cooled.
When Harley Davidson made Twin Cam 88, it couldn’t fit in the Softail bike without modification of the frame. As such, the Twin Cam 88B was made to fit in the Softail bikes. The twin cam B motor is hard mounted on the bike using an internal counterbalance system. The twin cam B motor uses the twin chain-driven balance shifts.
How does a Harley Davidson twin cam engine work?
The twin cam derives its name from the fact that it has two cams in the crankcase for valves activation. It refers to a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) which is the layout of the valve train. The two camshafts in the cylinder are responsible for the operations inside the cylinder head.
One camshaft is the one responsible for activating the intake valves. On the other hand, you have another valve that operates the exhaust valves.
The double overhead camshaft engine has many unique features. For example, it features smaller rocker arms, and at times they may not be present at all. It also has a wider gap between the valves that is not present in a single overhead camshaft.
The double overhead camshaft design allows for less restriction of airflow at high speeds. If the engine has many valves in one cylinder, it increases combustion for better efficiency because of the spark plug placement.
You are probably wondering, what does increased combustion mean? Why do I need it?
Enhanced combustion means you have more torque for better acceleration at high speed. It also assures you of efficiency so that you can spend less at the gas station and save some cash.
If you are looking for better performance, speed, powers, and fuel efficiency, the twin cam engine is the way to go.
How long will a Harley twin cam last?
Your Harley twin cam can last for a long as you care for it. With the proper maintenance and care, it is highly unlikely that it won’t get you up to 150,000 to 200,000 miles. The Harley twin cam has a sturdy design that assures you of durability.
If you want to get the best out of your Harley Davidson twin cam engine, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s manual. The manual contains instructions on when you should change the oil and the best gauge of fuels to use.
It also gives you instructions on how you can check whether the fluids you have need a change or not. Your riding pattern will also affect how long your twin cam will last. If you ride mostly on the highway, your engine may offer more miles than if you ride in traffic jams.
While in a jam, you may have to run your engine for almost 15 minutes per mile while on the highway, you run the engine approximately 1 minute per mile.
How long your engine will last will also depend on your storage. When you want to store the bike during the winter season, don’t leave it sitting around just like that. The best thing would be to hold it with a motorcycle lift if you have one. It holds it in position and keeps it away from destruction by other terms in the garage.
The durability of an engine is also determined by the heat cycles. As such, you should start the bike and ride it immediately. After you start it up, let it run for sometime before you can ride. That way, you allow the oil and the engine to stabilize thermally.
Also, ensure that you use a high-quality oil for the best protection. Using synthetic oil would be the best option though it might cost you more than other oils. The oil will offer the best protection even when you ride in rough conditions.
Therefore, it is safe to say that how long your Harley Davidson twin cam will last depends on how you will handle it.
Are Harley 96 and Harley 103 heads the same?
The Harley Davidson 96 and Harley Davidson 103 have the exact same heads. Apart from having the same heads, both are reliable and strong engines. Whichever one you choose between the two will offer you an excellent performance.
If you choose the Harley Davidson 103, you will have the same engine as the Harley Davidson 96 but with bigger pistons. The bigger pistons give you more cubic inches and also bump the compression. If you want to upgrade, the extra compression in the Harley 103 makes it less costly.
If you want to upgrade a Harley 96 to a Harley 103, it will cost you more in terms of gaskets, pistons, and cylinder hone.
Does mileage matter on a used motorcycle?
If you are looking to buy a used motorcycle, the mileage matters. A motorcycle with low mileage will cost you more than one with high mileage.
But, does low mileage on a bike matter?
Look at it this way.
Consider a bike that spends most time in the city traffic and rarely hits the highway for long-distance riding. Such a bike will have low mileage, but the wear and tear will be more.
On the other hand, you can have a motorcycle that hits the road for long distances daily. But, the owner services it on its maintenance date without fail. He/she takes it to a professional to look at it. They also use the best oil on the bike.
Such a bike will have more mileage, but it will have better performance. It is, therefore, more likely to last longer. Thus, a low mileage bike will cost you more, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it is better, especially if it is not well maintained. It would be better to buy a bike with higher mileage and better maintenance then.
Therefore, if you are looking to buy a Harley Davidson motorcycle, maintenance is critical. Harley Davidson motorcycles are sturdy and durable. As such, even with high mileage of 40,000 miles or more, it can still last long.
Thus, look for the maintenance records of the bike. A bike with no leaks and no sign of damage is an excellent choice. The behavior and driving pattern of the previous owner is a better consideration than the mileage.
So, how do you choose a nice Harley Davidson to use? Here are a few areas to look out for:
- Brake pads, clutch plates, and other parts that are subject to wear and tear
- Transmission
- Seals, fluids, gaskets
- Engine
- Tires
What oil does Harley Davidson recommend?
For the people who are Harley Davidson enthusiasts, having the best for the bike is always the top priority. Apart from having the bike checked by a professional, maintenance for a Harley Davidson also includes using the best oil.
If you wish to use your motorcycle in all weather conditions, Harley Davidson recommends that you should use SAE 20W50. This shows that the oil will perform in low temperatures up to 200 and high temperatures up to 500.
Therefore, the oil has a viscosity that allows it to flow freely when you start your bike in cold weather. It lubricates the moving engine parts fast to prevent wear and tear. It also stands high temperatures to offer optimal protection.
The best oil to use on a Harley Davidson bike is the one that has been manufactured by the company itself. The SYN3 full synthetic motorcycle oil is the recommended oil for use in a Harley Davidson chaincase, engine, and transmission.
SYN3 lubricant comes with a formulation that offers long-term protection for your Harley Davidson. It also comes with superior agents that meet the cleanliness requirements of the engine. The oil collects all the deposits and prevents the formation of sludge in the engine. A clean engine offers optimal performance, and it is long-lasting.
Harley Davidson engines are high output engines. Therefore, they generate a lot of heat, especially when riding for long distances. The oil you use should stand the high temperatures to offer the best protection. SYN3 lubricant doesn’t dissipate in the highest temperatures, which makes it efficient.
Smooth transmission is essential in a Harley Davidson bike. The SYN3 lubricant lubricates the transmission for better gear transmission and seal protection. It also maintains the coefficient for friction which allows for the smooth operation of the clutch.
Should you use the lubricant on a Harley Davidson engine during break-in stage?
The formulation of the SYN3 lubricant is passed for use in all stages of life for a Harley Davidson. You can, therefore, use it even during the break-in stage.
Apart from SYN3 lubricant, there are other synthetic oils that you can use in a Harley Davidson engine. These include Mobil 1 96936 20W-50, Red Line 42504 20W-50, and Amsoil SAE 20W-50 synthetic oils.
What is the best oil filter for Harley Davidson Twin Cam?
Your engine is an essential part of the bike as it is the one that gives it the power to move. If the engine is not in the best condition, then it doesn’t matter whether you have the latest wheels or not. Therefore, you should take all measures to ensure that your engine is healthy and performing optimally.
Thus, having the best filter is essential in preventing debris and dirt from accessing your engine. The filter prevents the fine elements that can enter your engine and affect its performance.
When you want to get a filter for your bike, first read the manufacturer’s manual to see if they have a model-specific filter. This is vital as filters come in different sizes and characteristics.
Also, if you take a horizontally fitted filter, ensure it has an anti-drain back valve. The valve prevents the oil from going back to the rolling pan when you shut the engine.
There is a large variety of filters in the market that you can use. However, some filters work better than others.
So, which is the best filter to use on a Harley Davidson?
K&N motorcycle filter stands out as the best filter to use with a Harley Davidson engine. The filter is designed for use with both conventional and synthetic oils.
The K&N filter ensures the best protection for your engine as it comes with a synthetic blend filtration media. Therefore, it removes most of the harmful contaminants that would get into your engine and destroy it.
Also, it has a heavy-duty construction that guarantees you durability. It has been extensively tested in the laboratory to ensure that it offers the best capacity. It also allows a consistent flow of oil into the engine.
K&N filter also comes with a drain back valve for horizontal installation. Thus, oil cannot roll back to the oil pan.
You can easily remove the filter without much hassle, and it comes with a one year warranty as a guarantee of quality.
What kind of oil do you put in a Harley Davidson transmission?
As mentioned earlier, Harley Davidson bikes are air-cooled. Thus, they get hot faster than water-cooled engines.
For that reason, you should be careful about the kind of oil you use in the Harley tranny so that it will ensure optimal protection.
Should you use the same oil in your engine, the tranny and the chaincase?
Some oil manufacturers claim that their oil is multipurpose and you can use it in the transmission, engine, and the chaincase. However, this is not recommended as the oil may not meet all the requirements. For instance, an oil for your transmission should come with additives that ensure smooth shifting. That may not be the case for the chaincase.
The best option, therefore, would be to have a separate oil for the three systems.
So, what do you consider when looking for an oil for your Harley Davidson transmission?
- The oil should perform well in all weather conditions. It should have a viscosity that allows it to flow fast in cold weather and lubricate the tranny.
- When the temperatures go up, the oil should not disintegrate to ensure the protection of your tranny at all times.
- The oil should also be cost-effective. Apart from ensuring the best protection for your transmission, the oil should also save you maintenance costs. It should, therefore, have an extended oil drain interval to save you on maintenance costs.
- You should use an oil that is warranty secure. You don’t want to use an oil that will void the warranty of your Harley Davidson bike in case of anything.
- The type of oil that you choose should ensure smooth shifting of the gears.
- Finally, it should protect the transmission from wear and tear, which guarantees a long lifespan.
Which is the best synthetic oil for you to use on your Harley Davidson tranny?
There are lots of synthetic oil options in the market for you to choose from.
For instance, you can use the Spectro R HDPG6 synthetic oil. The heavy-duty oil is ideal for use with the high-performance six-speed Harley Davidson bikes. The oil ensures smooth shifting of the gears and also reduces the noise that is common with the six-speed transmission.
The Red Line 42804 V-Twin transmission oil is the best option for four-stroke motorcycles and sports bikes. Sports bikes are characterized by the fast and abrupt shifting of gears. As such, they end up generating a lot of heat. Red Line 42804 withstands the heat to allow for smooth transmission and protection against wear and tear.
You can also use the Amsoil MYTQT-EA V-Twin transmission oil. It is ideal for reducing noise in the tranny and ensuring there is a smooth transmission.
Is synthetic oil good for air-cooled engines?
Unlike water-cooled engines, air-cooled engines get hot fast. As such, they require an oil that will withstand the high temperatures in the engine or tranny.
You can use conventional oil on your tranny as they are cheaper and therefore will help you save a lot. However, conventional oils are formulated by refining crude oil. No agents have been added to make the oil meet the high demands of an air-cooled engine.
Thus, using the oil will not offer the proper protection for the engine.
On the other hand, you have synthetic oil that is specially formulated with additives. The additives meet the specific needs of the air-cooled engine. First, synthetic oil comes with thermal properties as additives.
The additives allow the oil to protect your engine in all weather conditions. For some oils, they have a challenge flowing during cold weather. This exposes your engine to friction and wears during startup. However, synthetic oils have a viscosity that allows for fast flow during startup and in cold weather. Thus, your engine is protected at all times.
Also, synthetic oil is ideal for use in air-cooled engines because of its durability. For conventional oils, they break down fast, which requires you to change the oil many times.
But synthetic oil resists breakdown in harsh environments. Thus, they are more economical than conventional oils. You will enjoy prolonged service intervals which saves you a lot of maintenance costs. Because of its cleaning properties, synthetic oil will also keep your engine clean and healthy. A clean engine offers better performance, and it is also more durable.
Who makes Harley SYN3 oil?
Harley Davidson specially designs SYN3 synthetic lubricant for Harley Davidson engines.
How do you change an oil filter on a Harley without making a mess?
Are you a DIY type of person? If you are, then you can attempt changing the filter on your Harley Davidson motorcycle instead of going to the maintenance shop.
A filter helps to trap all dirt and contaminants from the oil to get into the engine. A good oil should collect all deposits and contaminants. The filter then traps the contaminants to prevent your engine from damage.
Whenever you need to change the oil in your engine, you should also change the oil filter. When the contaminants and dirt particles are trapped in the inner pleats, the oil filter becomes ineffective. If you don’t change it, the filter will stop working and start allowing oil to pass through a bypass valve that is present in all modern filters.
An effective or defective filter also makes your motorbike to run with a little more pony, which is costly. If the oil passes through the bypass, it is not doing its job of protecting your engine.
So how do you change the oil filter?
Changing the oil on a Harley Davidson is an effortless procedure. All the parts that you need to access are easily accessible. You only require a few tools such as a screwdriver, drain pan, a funnel, and a filter wrench. If you are a newbie, changing the filter should take you around half an hour.
The oil filter of the Harley is located behind the downtubes and in front of the front cylinder and cases. The oil filter is usually black or chrome, but sometimes it can be white.
You should start the filter changing process with venting the system. First, remove the oil cap. The oil tank is underneath the seat on the right side of the bike.
Next, you should find the drain tube. The drain tube has a screw-type hose clamp. Next, put a drain pan underneath the drain tube to collect the oil. Use the screwdriver to unfasten the hose and then pull the hose off. Allow the oil to drain for some minutes until it stops. After the draining, plug back the hose and fasten it with the clump.
Instead of just unscrewing the oil filter, you can use the cardboard trick to avoid a mess. Position the cardboard underneath the filter and ensure it goes all the way to the mount. After that, put the drain pan at the end of the cardboard to collect the oil from the filter.
Then, unscrew the oil filter and allow the oil to flow on the cardboard.
Before installing the new filter, put a little oil to the center. Do not fill the filter as it will make a mess while installing it. You can apply a bead of oil on the gasket to ensure it compresses well on its seat.
Tighten the oil filter using your hands. Then, fill the oil tank with the recommended type of oil. Finally, replace the filler cap on the oil tank, and you are good to go.
How often should I change the synthetic oil in my Harley Davidson motorcycle?
According to Reference.com, oil change on a Harley Davidson motorcycle should happen after every 5,000 miles for the engine. Also, 20,000 miles for the transmission, and 10,000 miles for the primary.
However, the oil change interval is subject to change depending on a variety of factors. For instance, if you ride your bike regularly or for long distances, then your oil change interval may be shorter.
The oil change interval will also depend on the type of oil you use. Synthetic oils come with thermal properties that make them long-lasting. As such, they’ll have a prolonged drain interval compared to conventional or semi-synthetic oils.
If you want to keep your Harley Davidson engine healthy, you must change the oil regularly. If you don’t change the oil, it will leave carbon deposits which weaken the engine.
How much oil goes into a Harley primary?
You will require one quart of oil to fill a Harley Davidson motorcycle primary. After you fill the primary, ensure you double-check the level of the fluid.
You should follow the manufacturer’s manual on the amount of oil that you should put in a tranny. Failing to adhere to the instructions may affect your warranty.
It also affects the protective performance of the liquid, which exposes your engine to damage. If you cannot estimate the oil, seek the services of a professional to do it for you.
How much does a transmission fluid for a Harley Davidson cost?
The cost of transmission fluid on your Harley Davidson will depend on the type of oil that you use.
For instance, conventional oils will cost you the cheapest when you buy them. But, they come with no additives or properties. Therefore, conventional oils may not offer the best protection for your engine. You may, therefore, end up using more in maintenance shops for repairs.
Additionally, conventional oils do not come with thermal properties. Therefore, they break down easily when exposed to high temperatures. You, therefore, get short oil drain intervals which means you spend more on the oil change. The inability to offer enhanced performance for your bike also leads you to spend more on the fuel.
On the other hand, you have synthetic oils that will cost you more when purchasing. However, they end up saving you a lot in the long run.
For instance, synthetic oils enhance the performance of your engine. Therefore, you don’t need to accelerate a lot to gain speed. Thus, synthetic oil saves you a lot in terms of fuel cost. Also, you enjoy longer service intervals.
The oil also protects your engine so that it doesn’t break down regularly. You, therefore, don’t use money in the garage on repairing your engine.
Synthetic oils also come with thermal properties that enable them to withstand high temperatures.
Final thoughts
Riding around in a Harley Davidson bike makes a striking statement that makes you ride in pride. It is also a high-performance engine that you can rely upon for riding in all situations.
However, without the proper maintenance, the bike may end up with a substandard performance and short lifespan. It is therefore vital that you do the necessary maintenance on the bike regularly. The maintenance also includes the type of oil that you use in the bike.
Synthetic oil makes the best option as it will withstand the high temperatures to offer optimal protection. It also enhances performance and assures you of extended drain intervals.
Last update on 2023-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
