Hi all...new here... Just purchased a 2004 super glide with less than 10,000 miles on it last surviced at 5,000..in 2006..... Oil on dipstick is very thick , black, and sticky... I am thinking draining and putting a less expensive oil in running a few miles and changing again to maybe red line ..any suggestions ??

 

Yep, sounds exactly what I'd do. You might want to change the filter both times too. Also wouldn't hurt to flush the brake lines and change primary and transmission oil too.

 

Yes what he said. I would drain and flush all fluids. Be glad you don't have to worry about the coolant

 

Almost forgot, check for age cracks in the tires.

 

Thanks...yes, I am putting new tires on next week ..also I am planning to change all three oils... Brake fluid Is a good idea also . I am hopeing the quick oil and filter change will clean all gunk .. I didnot realize not riding it much in six years would affect oil..it has 4500 in 7 years..

 

One on the right works well.? HA, what ever you use just remember, Harleys are called dry sump, but they do run with about 20oz oil for splash lube in the sump that is always being replaced and drawn off on the way to the oil bag..and does not drain out with an oil change. So do not use kerosene or any other silly stuff. Actually, unless it's truly contaminated by a foreign product, what you are wanting to do is not necessary.

 

ripsaw thanks for your input....good to know

 

I agree with all of the above, except I wouldn't use cheap oil! With new engine oil and filter ride the bike for a hundred miles, so it gets up to full running temperature, then drain and replace oil and filter. Personally I would just ride it around for a couple of hours, on local roads and close to home, rather than going on a trek!