DRAIN THE OLD OIL
INSPECT YOUR OIL
DRAIN THE OLD OIL
• Get the engine warm( go for a short ride or let the bike warm up on the stand) but be mindful that oil can get super hot and burn you.
• Undo the filler cap on the side of the motor, and slip in the funnel. This will remind you what your were doing should you get called away.
• Check the oil level with the bike upright.
• Remove any bodywork necessary to give easy access to the drain plug( s). Some bikes have more than one drain plug. Clean around the drain plug( making sure that you have the correct drain plug, i. e not the gearbox drain – refer to your owner’ s manual) and oil filter. Wiping around the drain plug and filter, get rid of any dirt.
• Put your gloves on. Crack the sump plug and position the drain pan. Undo the plug by hand and allow for a clear exit so that you get as little oil on you or on the ground as you take it out. Leave to drain.
• Next get the oil filter off. The wrap-around strap or chain will do the job. Remember to line up the drain tray. Unwind the filter by hand for the last few winds. Making sure to keep everything in order; springs and‘ o’ rings if your filter is an internal type. Once it is off then be sure to drain the last out of the filter.
INSPECT YOUR OIL
The state of your oil can show your engine’ s health. If the oil looks milky on a water-cooled bike, there might be a leaking head gasket water-pump seal. If so, take your bike to the repair shop or prepare yourself for some major repair work. Many drain plugs are magnetic and you might find metal flakes on the end. A small amount is ok but more than, say, 1 / 8th of a teaspoon and it is worth further inspection. An experienced mechanic should be able to work out what the wear is depending on the type of metal flakes.
68 KIWI RIDER