Oil and filter change question on 87 FLT
#1
Oil and filter change question on 87 FLT
I’m changing the oil for the first time in my (new to me) 87 FLT. The Harley Service Manual covering 1984-1990 FLT/FXR models says “ Remove tank drain plug or disconnect hose.” The hose is a <#^@* to get to and the only drain plug hole has the oil temp sending unit in it. Do you guys recommend disconnecting the hose or removing the temp sending unit?
#2
The Sending unit is the plug. I have a 1987 FLHTC. There is a little wire on the end with a 1/4 inch nut on it? Take the nut off remove the wire. Use a wrench on the unit and remove. I bend a plastic funnel to catch the oil draining, but it still makes small mess on the frame. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN the plug/sending unit. Just snug it ( I have broke one).
#3
Changing oil was always a mess on our '90 Ultra, I switched to using a vacuum pump and now it is much better. It takes a while , especially when the oil is cold but much better than removing saddlebags, side covers and having the oil get all over the wiring and frame. I tried using the vacuum at first then the drain plug but only got a few drops out of the drain plug hole after the vacuum was done, so I don't do it that way that too often.
#4
BB4Xl & pajoe,
Thanks for the advice. I changed the oil today. I’ve had a few HD’s in the past but this is my first EVO. It’s not the easiest bike to change the oil in, but not too bad. I used one corner of a 12 pack coke box, cut is lengthwise about 2” from the corner and taped it under the plug before I removed it. This gave me a 14” long V gutter for the oil to drain into and I placed a drain pan under the other end. Very little mess.
Thanks for the advice. I changed the oil today. I’ve had a few HD’s in the past but this is my first EVO. It’s not the easiest bike to change the oil in, but not too bad. I used one corner of a 12 pack coke box, cut is lengthwise about 2” from the corner and taped it under the plug before I removed it. This gave me a 14” long V gutter for the oil to drain into and I placed a drain pan under the other end. Very little mess.
#6
I use the cardboard tube from a roll of kitchen tissue, about nine inches long. With the drain plug almost fully unscrewed, I offer tube up to tank, unscrew the plug, which drops down the tube, followed by the oil into a bowl. The plug is easier to clean than the bike! I have a display stand, so it is easier with the bike upright.
Last edited by grbrown; 10-18-2010 at 04:38 AM. Reason: Expanded.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post