DOC HARLEY: NEW RIDER Q&A ON BASIC OIL CHANGE

[@stuckinnj9554]

Hey Doc, thought I add an additional tip to the ‘wet’ filter process. While the sump is draining, remove the new o/f out of the box. Fold the box flaps into the box, reinsert the filter, seal up. The box and flaps steady/support the filter. Now fill filter to the top. Put it to the side. Caution: if your environment is dusty, place a clean shop towel over the filter - avoid contamination. Carry on with removing the old filter. By the time you are ready to install new filter, the media will have absorbed the majority of free standing fluid. This makes for a clean installation and you’re not standing around watching dirty oil drain😄.

[@Manfromnantucket653]

I used a 20oz. Pop bottle cut in half from top to bottom. Works great . minimal spill.

[@roadglide1745]

Punch a small hole 1/8 at top of filter 12 o'clock your vent, another at the bottom 6 o'clock position. Get your other tools ready and new oil. Filter will mostly fully drained by then.

[@PeterSmith-or3pq]

Good one, gonna try

[@kennethanderson1685]

Harley Davidson Mechanics excellent support after the sale is what convinces me to purchase Harley Davidson Motorcycles. The HD mechanics are professionals that give me confidence in ownership throughout the lifecycle of my Motorcycle.

[@toro5338]

As an old aircraft mechanic is a pleasure listening to you ! Congrats !

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I bet you have a lot of knowledge also to share....Doc

[@plantsncaterpillars]

Anybody else think Doc Harley sounds just like Vin Scully? Thank you for the video, Doc!

[@lpd1snipe]

Good advice Doc. The cheapest way is form a piece of Aluminum foil under the oil filter like a tray. Then punch a hole in the bottom of the oil filter and then the top of it and let it run out into your drain pan. Then when you unscrew the filter you will hardly get any oil at all because it's already drained out. No muss no fuss. Then fill a new filter to the top with oil, then let it sit about 10 minutes. It will be soaked in ready to spin on. I definitely don't miss the old days of Harley oil filters in the tank that you have to disassemble the filter assembly to change like the old Shovel heads and my two Sportsters. Just my two cents worth of working on bikes for 50 years.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for you “old School” Tech Tip👍…Doc

[@jeffklun2314]

Thank you. Changed my oil for the first time myself. You made it a breeze.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad it helped….Doc

[@williamdenton6332]

Hey Doc, I hope you're doing well, this past Friday I asked you about the primary fluid capacity and you directed me to a video you made about the primary fluid and how much to use, Thank you so much. This was my first 3-hole oil change, and I was terrified that I would do something wrong, but your videos are the best and my first experience was a success thanks to you. I can't thank you enough Doc. Now I have to go out and clean up my mess. Stay safe Doc

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad Low Country Harley-Davidson could help....Doc

[@xrick76tube]

I use break life lube on the oil filter seal it’s like die electric grease it helps the oil filter come off easier syn3 gear in the trans and syn3 oil or ams oil in the engine and regular formula + in the primary

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing...Doc

[@bag-of-bones485]

Doc, I really appreciate your videos they are packed with good content and your easy to listen to. Thanks for Sharing.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for taking time to watch and comment…..Doc

[@elton71737678]

Doc, as usual another fact filled video. I am NOT a fan of one oil in all 3 holes. I’ve been using BelRay 85/140 oil in my transmissions, Harley primary oil in the primary and regular, Harley non synthetic, oil in the motor. I’ve never had any transmission, primary issues, or motor issues. On any of my bikes. Evo’s Twin cams, or Milwaukee 8 bikes. Your opinion, would be greatly appreciated. You are after all, the Harley guru!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing...Doc

[@mikehammer2408]

Use K&N filter with nut on end -easier to remove than oil filter wrench. I use paper plates under the filter when removing to catch oil.

[@Jonathan-L]

Yes, those K&N filters with the hexagon nut are good. And you can go one step further by using an empty plastic soda pop bottle... First, you cut the bottom of the bottle (just as if you're making a funnel), remove the cap, place your socket & socket drive extension shaft insid the bottle, slide the bottom of bottle over the oil filter, and connect your ratchet to the socket socket drive extension shaft. When you remove the filter, it will be contained within the bottle and it will help minimise the mess (maybe not prevent it completely). This video is an example: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6vdmqGClNeJnJo

[@mikehammer2408]

@@Jonathan-L That is an awesome idea Appreciate the tip

[@jerryhubbard4461]

When changing the oil filter on my 2021 Tri Glide, having hands like mine, large as a bear, I use the wrench to put the filter on. I also watch after is makes contact that I turn it no more than half turn. So far so good. Thanks Doc for all of your tips. I try to watch them all. I have been riding since my first Shovel. 70 years old now and enjoying the three wheels.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for the feedback....My first was a Pan. I too some day will join you on a three wheeler....Doc

[@kato64]

I’ve used cut down 2L pop bottles or folds of tinfoil underneath the oil filter, to ‘minimize’ the mess. I’ve never quite figured out how to eliminate it completely, but if sure reduces cleanup time.

[@stephenbodholdt4326]

You are a blessing 👍🇺🇸 wish you would travel up to Myrtle beach Harley and give a seminar on anything, we all would be there. Thank you for what you do. Vietnam era/ Berlin wall vet and Dyna owner👍🇺🇸

[@bigj200016]

Love the tips. One thing I always do with my oil filters in addition to putting a little oil inside and lubing the gasket is spread a little oil on the threads as well. Makes it easier (IMO) to spin on.

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

I like the arrangement on my 1988 Evo FLHTC better. The oil tank drain is up high above the right rear floorboard and the oil filter is under the transmission. No mess on the front of the engine.

[@СергійБондар-с8м]

Hello from Ukraine (Kharkiv), i have H-D 1988 FLHTC 85th Anniversary (#451/850). Change oil no problem for me.

[@doylehenderson319]

Thanks Doc... I know that you said this vid was geared towards new riders but this old dawg was taught a few new tricks!!!! I wished I could give this one more than 1 thumbs up. Thanks for ALL you do to help us old farts too... ;-)

[@bigblue3568]

TIP: Place carboard under filter (foil lined works great) then take an old Phillips screw driver and hammer to punch a hole in the bottom face then top face of filter and let the filter drain itself empty of oil then remove. Way less mess.

[@JD-en6ph]

Old trick and it works very well, obviously you are not new to the oil change business.

[@westieBrucedavidson]

Doc I love that bike behind you the nacelle especially Thanks for all your videos mate

[@steventwiddy3402]

Doc it’s so cool that you do these videos to help the guys out here that are wrenching on their own bikes, I’ve gained tons of knowledge from your videos and really enjoyed talking to too in Rockingham

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I remember, It was a good time!...Doc

[@hectorbarajas9316]

Doc, …… i have question: Years ago I had a Sportster (1994) and there used to be an aftermarket round oil cooler that after you removed the oil filter you could screw on the finned oil cooler on and then the new oil filter behind it. It also gave your Sportster slightly more oil capacity along with extra cooling during very hot climates. During the winter time there was a leather sleeve that slid over the cooler to block the now much colder air flow on the fins but still allowed for a tad larger oil capacity w/o having to remove the cooler. I wanna say HD used to sell this product but have not seen one in 26 years. Any ideas on who made these animals and where/how I can get one now for my bike ?

[@montanaguy]

Doc, yet another excellent vlog and especially about THE most important self service topic you could provide to the new and seasoned rider alike. Blessings brother!

[@kingkrimson8771]

Here's a cool trick for checking the crankcase breathers while doing an oil change - leave the oil filler cap on when you first pull the drain plug. The oil should drain quite slowly. Now remove the oil filler cap; the oil should drain a lot faster. If it does you know your breathers are working as they should.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

So, You watched our very first video! Thanks....Doc

[@toolmaker5150]

For the oil filter, I use a 2 liter soda bottle cut in half. I also use a long 1/4” drill to drill through the filter, that way most of the oil will drain out before removing it. Thanks for the video.

[@montanaguy]

NO DRILLING!! You cannot be assured you are not getting drilled metal into your circulating system. This could be construed as a 'common sense' issue!!!

[@christophercolarossi1313]

I made a piece for the oil filter out of corragated plastic and it works perfect.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing....Doc

[@tcatnat70]

Aluminum foil under the oil filter works too.

[@Blayze1017]

Aluminum foil is what ive used for 30yrs. Works great.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Both are important. Both less complicated without the filter. Both when hot. Most have the same drain plug so the same advice. The only modification to this video is your service manual will have an exact amount of oil to put in. Thanks ~ Doc

[@conniemelisabray563]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson bless it

[@epsavoy]

Dopeness. Thanks. Im a seasoned rider but this will be my first harley. Do you think I need the maintenance warranty or can I realistically do my own to save money?

[@sherminl1284]

did my first oil change all 3 holes and was surprised. found engine oil and tran oil drain bolts were loose. I actually did not need a wrench. removed the bolts and saw they put Teflon tape on it, I tell you that tape was the only thing holding the bolts in, I had 6300 miles on it from the oil change. always had my bike serviced at Harley-Davidson, this was the first time doing it myself. glad I did it myself....Happy riding.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

A great post with good and bad experiences. …..Doc

[@eddiealvarez5493]

Now that was as simple as 1, 2, 3, Doc!

[@pb68slab18]

Sharpie makes permanent markers in silver and gold. Perfect for writing the mileage on the black oil filter.

[@candymanix]

Thanks Doc! Just purchased a Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special 2 days ago and immediately subscribed to your channel! Very informative....

[@lifeliners1]

Great advice exactly the way ive been doing it and the only thing i never heard about is not to fill to the top i never had oil up my air filter

[@beauxdutaman7450]

just watched this one, as for the oil filter i use a 2 liter bottle cut to fit and keep the cap on then take the filter off. i have a reusable filter of 5 microns, and i use a scavenger, this goes on the oil filter port. then after oil is drained and i replace the plug, add 3 qrts of oil and take the return pipe out, put a plastic hose on it. move it over the dran pan, make sure the transmission is in neutral, then start the engine let it run until all the dark oil that comes out of the return pipe comes out clear, then stop the engine and put the return pipe back into the oil tank, that way all the dirty oil is removed from the engine and only new clean oil is in there and not mixing with any of the old stuff. cleaning the reusable oil filter screen in a can of gasoline and letting it air dry out in the sun. then put it back on after taking the scavenger puck off.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing....Doc

[@jamesmartin8999]

Hello doc harley...best oil for my 2010 harley fatboy...have watched so many of your videos.very impressed and explained so well.regards jimmy.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Oil is a Choice. I choose HD product Oil because I can get it from coast to coast. Do your research, Choose what you can afford. Do Not put Automotive oil in your Air cooled motor!..Doc

[@joemesserhd1]

once again .... way to go DOC ! keep those videos coming ..... we certainly enjoy them !

[@bradkopczyk9049]

Always love watching your vidoes. They are so informative. Keep up the good work Doc!! 👍

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad you like them, Thank you for watching....Doc

[@goforitman1]

Doc your helping be better Harley owner by educating us. Thanks for do's and don't I change my own oil and you gave advice I will use moving forward. Last thing thanks for mentioning the muffler rubber Isolators...story at end of my 2700 my trip. few weeks ago I started to hear this horrible noise coming from left side toward rear of bike and took me a while to figure out it was coming from these and ordered replacement.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing.....Doc

[@danielsaudi9121]

Awesome video…Thanks for helping us new riders out….

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Welcome to our world. Thanks for tuning in….Doc

[@edward1967able]

Thanks for the video doc, I am one of those new Harley Davidson motorcycle owner and yes I will be doing my own oil changes after the first oil change from the dealer .

[@UsetoCud]

The bigger problem is Teflon tape on the end of the plug is cutoff and is now in the engine oil system. It can plug small holes and can keep seals from working. If you use Teflon tape, use only two raps and leave the first two threads exposed.

[@mikeb46]

As always a really great video from Doc. Love all the tips. I was told to get the orange tool by a friend at the parts counter. I use it every time and it works great. Some folks might get lucky by cutting up a soda bottle. I did that at first but it still managed to leak. One thing you didn't mention, which surprised me, you didn't praise the better lubricating properties of synthetic oil. It is soooo much better. It can tolerate a lot more heat, which is a big issue with air cooled engines if you get stuck in heavy traffic. My glide now has 88,000 miles on the factory engine and it idles as quiet as a friends bike with only 15,000. I started using synthetic at the first oil change. I change oil at 5,000 faithfully. A friend changes his at 10,000 but changes the filter every 5,000. He has almost 90,000 on his engine so it must be working. The brake cleaner is good tip. I have been reluctant to use it for fear of damaging paint. I had been using Simple Green in a spray bottle. It does a great job of removing dirt and oil residue. I lay the garden hose out in the sun to get the water hot. When it's ready, I spray the bike with the simple green, wait about five months then blast it with the hot water. Any oil I slobbered on the bike comes right off. So do bugs and most grime. Then I rinse it down with distilled water from my pump up sprayer and it will be clean with no water spots.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for sharing your story..Doc

[@laneh1968]

I just shared your channel on my Facebook page for all my Harley friends to check out. This channel is too good not to have over 100,000 subscribers.

[@morrisdennis]

Its easy and fun 2 do. Thx doc!

[@rickjewell9467]

So Doc have you ever had a idle air controller go bad? I have been having a problem with the 2018 Road Glide idle, am talking bike in a couple of day and my mechanic says that they've not seen this problem.

[@guilhermebomfim5909]

Your videos help us to answer many questions. I watch every week, I'm from Brazil.

[@alexespinoza2885]

Great video, I myself just treated myself to my first HD for my 27th birthday!!!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Happy birthday!...Doc

[@RoadKing21-e1p]

I use an old skillet to catch the oil works pretty well. I have to laugh at myself when he talked about getting the bike hot before changing the oil, let's just say I didn't let my bike get hot enough, I change the oil and one day while riding the back pressure in the crank case popped my dipstick out of the tank I had oil all over the side of my bike. At least now I have the proper amount of oil and it's not over filled, so yeah if the oil isn't hot enough not all of the oil drains out.

[@mopar21]

Have a 2020 XL1200NS, bought new last summer. I'd like to change all the fluids this spring as all of the fluids are 2 years old. Going syn3 for the engine. What do you recommend for the transmission/ primary? I want to run the best, regardless of cost. Considering syn3, formula plus and the screamin eagle synthetic gear oil.

[@rooferrob9279]

How about a vid showing you purge all the systems on a stock softail?

[@Joebauers2505]

Never knew i needed something to catch the oil, always thought that was for the ground to do.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Alucard the ground becomes slick in this world when oil flows……Doc

[@williamdenton6332]

Hey Doc, as a new Harley Davidson owner I want to do what's best for the bike, unfortunately I have to do my own oil changes and I'm having a hard time trying to find the primary oil capacity. I have a 2007 Softail Custom FXSTC and I'm going to use mobile 1 20W-50 (V twin) full synthetic oil for the engine and primary and 75W 140 (synpower) full synthetic for the transmission. I have the owners manual, but it only says to consult the service manual that I don't have. Any help will be gratefully appreciated Doc. Thank you so much for helping us be responsible Harley Davidson owners. Sincerely, William

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Look through my library of videos. I made a video on Primary fluid level....Doc

[@williamdenton6332]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thank you very much Doc for taking the time out of your busy schedule to help with my question.

[@southernstyle067]

And if you fill to the full mark you will get more oil blow by in your air filter/throttle body. Unless you have a external breather.

[@sboy1955]

Thanks Doc, all great tips! Btw, beautiful color on that Road King!

[@geoffreyjones6271]

I used to check my Dyna’s oil while it was on the side stand. I recently bought a Tri Glide. Was the oil dip stick adjusted for the fact that a trike sits level? My concern is overfilling.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

All late model bikes have a side stand and an upright level indicator. Trust the upright….Doc

[@ellwood59]

Thanks Doc. Great tips.

[@ridefitnation]

Great video as usual. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for watching…..Doc

[@dchai61]

In the Harley manual it shows you oil check hot or cold on the dipstick. Is the cold check accurate or do you only recommend checking oil when the bike has been risen for how much time?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Checking oil when cold is making sure you have adequate amount. Hot check will tell you if additional oil is needed. 20 minutes ride not including warm up time….Doc

[@MyMotorcycleObsession]

Nice video doc! I'm getting ready to change my oil for the first time. *Here's a topic for a new video: SPARK PLUG WIRES!* I've read so many conflicting things about spark plug wires. I think some manuals say to replace them every three years, some people say to never replace them and they never wear out. Some say to replace the bad ol stock wires with some better ones as soon as you buy the bike. Some say to test them with an ohm meter, some say to put your tongue on the wire while its running, if you get shocked then you need to replace them LOL. I just ordered some Accel 8 mm plug wires, it says they deliver five times more energy than stock. Some wires claim a significant increase in horsepower. Some are thicker wires, does it matter if you go above 8 mm? I think the thick ones look funny LOL. I just replaced my starter, battery and spark plugs, my bike starts better than almost any Dyna I've seen. Going to do the wires because my bike is 14 years old and I'm pretty sure those wires are stock. It would be nice to hear your input on spark plug wires in a video!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your research. The Topic has been added to our list...Doc

[@stevecucho]

on a trike, there is no Jeffy so I guess it's safe to change all fluids while 3 wheels are making contact and level on the floor. thank you for all you do love your channel. any tips for m8. fluid change ?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I like the new heavy oil Harley is offering for the primary. Seems to quite the compensator….Doc

[@clydeespinosa6286]

Thanks Dr Harley for making this informational video

[@timallen1262]

Good information even for experience riders!!👍

[@davemagee]

Thanks Doc always valuable information. All the best from NZ 😎

[@СергійБондар-с8м]

Thanks from Ukraine (Kharkiv).)

[@Petesv321]

You are a great wrench Doc. Wish I was closer to you.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you....Doc

[@atrenthillman]

Good information sir. Thanks! I love your videos. 😊

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I appreciate your time and kind words…Doc

[@cheezehdglen9468]

Doc, obviously change with every 5,000 service. How about a time period. Once a year? Syn3. If I don't get 5,000 on in a year, should I change it? Glen

[@bigblue3568]

Just my humble opinion but change every year regardless of mileage service interval hit or not especially if up north and bike sits for months without being ridden. Will bike be ok if not, yeah more than likely but oil is cheap compared to repairs.

[@stuckinnj9554]

Owners Manual and most Winter Storage Guidlines recommend changing oil and filter as part of the storage steps. Regardless of mileage, winter comes every year for the majority of the country. For those lucky soles that get 12 month riding seasons, once a year is minimal. IMHO

[@fq7879]

Hi Doc, when draining oil and replacing filter on a softail and sportster should the bike be upright or on the jiffy stand.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Does not matter….Doc

[@jamesrobinson2433]

Good advice for all the new riders. Teach on.

[@georgebullard9637]

Doc, I have a road King with the 88 twin cam, bored to 95, what would you expect the oil capacity ??? , I will use ur method to "add and check" but ur thoughts on ncreased capacity ???

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Oil capacity will not change now that your size of motor has changed. Note if you added an oil cooler ( which I recommend) then your capacity will change….Doc

[@jlc904ubc]

Great info Doc. Thanks

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for watching...Doc

[@donmelanson4894]

Great tips , thanks for sharing the knowledge. The service manual doesnt talk about a full purge oil change ,what are your toughts on it,.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have not performed this type of oil change. read a lot about it. Seems to be a lot of work but could be beneficial if done right....Doc

[@donmelanson4894]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I did my 2007 softail today and it’s a process, I followed a video from Delboy

[@markoconnor7082]

Always enjoy your informative videos. Keep up the good work Doc!👍😎

[@robertmacdonald2735]

Great video....your thoughts on regular vehicle oil 20w50 for engine and primary?

[@frenchy114]

When draining the oil, is it ok to have it on the jiffy stand or do I have to have it upright to get all the oil out?

[@mikeb46]

On mine, the drain hole is on the left so with the bike on the side stand, you are more likely to get the most oil out quicker than if it was straight up on a lift.

[@Jisstifer83626]

Softail the drain is on the right side so it's best to get it upright so all the old stuff drains.

[@onetakeadventureswithjoeld4679]

Take it to the shop, write the check!

[@felipecamerato2423]

Thanks for the tips Doc!

[@MrJones-bt7im]

Hey doc thanks for being easy and understanding. I brought A 2016 road king 02/22. Has 6500 miles, I got it home and noticed a primary leak. I wanted to change the seal. What do you think?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

A Primary Leak covers many seals. Start with a good bike wash. Go for many rides, checking under front and rear of primary. Take a flash light and look at the shifter area on the transmission. Oil around there? All these areas are looked at with an inner primary oil leak by your Harley Tech...Doc

[@itumelengmahaole5890]

Thanks from South Africa 🌍

[@jamesmartin8999]

Hello doc harley...have not done oil change as yet,tip to replace oring very helpfull.been a lot time since oil was changed by morgan wacker brisbane..how often would you recomment to change oil,thank you regards jimmy.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

At least every 5000 miles on motor oil, 10K for Primary and Trans. Fork oil every 20K ( I don't care if the Factory has up it to 50K)....Doc

[@raymondwinans978]

Thanks Doc , Big Thanks from Myrtle Beach ⛱!!

[@andreatucker7132]

I have a 2017 48 model 1200 sportster. I changed the derby cover and unfortunately didn't think to have her on the jack and lost some primary oil. I know it only takes a quart. How do I check my level without opening her up?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

You can’t. Go to a bar tonight. Find a good looking girl. Ask her to stand next to your bike holding it upright for a picture. Check the level, add oil. Take the picture and say thanks

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks Doc. Basic but vital information.

[@Peter-976]

Doc, just would like to add that drain the oil from the motor first before you remove the oil filter to minimize the amount of oil left in the filter.

[@charlesparriet3992]

Thanks for all the great information!!!

[@stephenfleming7056]

Cat litter tray makes a good oil catch container.

[@petevicente9236]

Nice job Doc!

[@MrJeepmed]

Thanks for the info. That green plastic looks like a Sam splint.

[@alexjohnsten8803]

I'm definitely buying one of those drain pans!

[@jameshartley3692]

Doc how often should you pull the oil pan off and clean it? Assume I'm doing 5k oil/fluid changes.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Changing oil at 5k should keep the build up to a minimum. HD does not list a mileage or time to remove and clean. Of course we remove and clean if any internal motor issues. My personal opinion is every 50K just for peace of mind and knowledge….Doc

[@jameshartley3692]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Doc, thanks for the information. I assume that mean all fluids will be changed at that 50k interval. As it the oil and trans have the same cover on the bottom end? Really do appreciate the time you take to talk about the issues your videos focus on. As a new bike owner all the information I can get on what I should and shouldn’t be doing is very important. When I have question about my bike your the first place I look up for a video. Keep up the good work.

[@jang6969]

Another great tip from the Doc! 🇨🇦

[@philiporourke410]

Great vid doc, thanx

[@MadMexism]

Doc Harley is the best.

[@mrt3976]

Thanks for all the great info Doc, I've just purchased my first harley, a 2006 elactra glide standard, keep up the good work, Andy from devon UK.

[@scottlin7876]

congrats to you mr.t on your purchase

[@Hog-g2z]

Good morning 🌅, Doc Harley , I hope you all keeping safe and well, I have a 2003 Deuce, I have a strange noise coming from my primary side so drain the oil and remove cover, I have inspected the compensator, cannot see anything untoward about it, so I put everything back together, but I have not got sufficient oil from HD, and the nearest Harley dealership is 80 miles away, I looked in the manual and it says I can use 20-50 synthetic, so I have purchased I 4 L 5 L can of it, from a sport shop, I still don’t know whether I’ve killed the problem with the noise. I’ll be running it later today., but do you think the oil is okay to use?, What route do you think I should take if I have more noise coming from the compensator?, Stock one or aftermarket., regards France .

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for watching and comment. I am unfamiliar with your choice of oil. Some synthetic oil will not work with the clutch. I guess you can try it and let us know how it works. As for the compensator. I would buy a new factory like unit. It lasted this long. None offer better. Do not replace with a gear only…..Doc

[@Hog-g2z]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Hi Doc , okay thank you for your help, I will try the oil and let you know, Regards from Deuce.

[@balmori.hangarage]

Hey Doc, Paco form Mexico saying hello once again! please let me ask you something. Its been 2 years since I put on jacks mi bike (03 FLSTC) on an attempt to seal mi tank (KBS Coating), tire change and a replacement of a huge screws quantity damaged or not originals! however due mi job (and wife LOL) I haven´t had the time or will to finish it and even when I had turned the wheel and put some oil on the cylinders, last time I saw the oil tank it was empty!!! so, where is the oil??? does this shows some problem? do I have nor need to drain it cold (I guess so in order to avoid a hydraulic block!) thanks for your time and teaching and God bless you! greetings from Mexico.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I sent an Email to you with my thoughts...Doc

[@richardrussell500]

Hello Doc... what oil temperature should I have on my 2023 M8 107? I rode 30 minutes today in 70* temperatures. My HD digital dipstick read 211. I have an oil cooler and will have HD install the assisted fan. I ordered the service manual. The interweb junkies said 230-235*. Please advise... and thank you :-)

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

They are correct….Doc

[@bobdawson5787]

What weight oil does each hole use / synthetic or conventional ?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

That is always your choice. Harley-Davidson offers motor oil , primary and transmission oils. They also offer a synthetic oil to put in all 3…..Doc

[@OrangeManStan]

Doc I have a question, I know every manufacturer states to get the oil hot before removing. Why is it that for a M8 Softail only takes 3.8 ltrs but on a rebuild it needs almost a full ltr more. That means that one whole ltr of old dirty oil stays in the engine. Every time we go to the bike after a day or two of riding the oil is cold and has had maximum time to drain down, it was hot when left so would have flowed well after the last ride. I experimented and emptied the oil cold after it had been standing for a week. The oil collected was around 4.5 ltrs. Plus it drained at a normal speed so didn't take long. In my mind I'm better to drain cold as replacing 4.5 ltr against 3.8 is better for the bike. Is this not a reasonable way of thinking? Thanks for your experience and time.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Your post is thought provoking. HD class and bulletins all say to get the bike to operating Temp before draining oil...Doc

[@dennisharrison4744]

I use syn 3 screaming eagle oil i have hurd bad things about it it doing good in my 09 sportster 1200 custom with screaming eagle pipes and air filter which i changed to a K and N air filter

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Syn 3 is good. What you may have heard, the open SE air cleaner with the K&N air filter seems to drip oil on the cam cover sooner than service times. Setting up a External Breather system can help...Doc

[@carlospenunuri9355]

I’m going to do my first service on my FXLRS and was given Harley Davidson heavy synthetic gear oil for the transmission and primary. I’ve always used the regular Harley primary and transmission fluid. What do you think of the synthetic gear oil for the M8?