How to Change the Oil in a Harley Davidson 1300CC

Few Harley Davidsons carry a stock 1300cc engine these days. They're primarily found in vintage models with flathead engines, not in current models produced in the last few years. Changing the oil in a Harley is fairly standard, however, no matter which model you have. Harley Davidson owners pride themselves on their independent streak, and every Harley owner should know how to change the oil on his machine. It's easy and it only takes a few minutes.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Socket wrench Pliers Oil filter Motor oil Siphon Oil pan Clean rags

1. • 1

     Shut off the Harley and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Experts disagree on how often you should let the 1300cc engine cool before you change the oil. A cold engine is the safest (you don't want to change the oil while the engine is still hot), but if the oil is still rather warm, then the gunk in has not yet had time to settle, making it easy to remove. Ideally, wait about 10 minutes until you're comfortable you won't get burned, then start working.

   • 2

     Take the filler cap off of the Harley's oil tank and slide an oil pan under the drain plug. Place a siphon between the plug and the pan with one hand, and remove the drain plug with a socket wrench in the other. The oil should drain through the siphon and into the pan.

   • 3

     When the oil has completely drained out of the oil tank, replace the plug and set the siphon aside.

   • 4

     Take off the seat of the Harley and look for the cylinder holding the oil filter. The oil filters on most Harleys can be found there; if yours isn't, consult your owner's manual for the correct location.

   • 5

     Remove the lid from the cylinder housing and pull the cylinder free.

   • 6

     Use a pair of long-nosed pliers to disconnect the cylinder's cap and pull out the old oil filter.

   • 7

     Put a new oil filter into place and fit the cap on the cylinder. Make sure the cap is secure, then slide the cylinder into the housing can seal the lid.

   • 8

     Reattach the seat, making sure it doesn't shift or wiggle when you sit on it.

   • 9

     Fill the oil tank with fresh motor oil. The exact amount of oil varies depending on the precise model of Harley. Your owner's manual will tell you how much. For 1300cc engines, a higher grade motor oil or one designed for older engines is usually preferred.

   • 10

     Put the filler cap in place on top of the oil tank and seal it securely.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try to change the oil while the 1300cc engine is running. It's impractical and there is a risk of injury.