So I picked up the service manual for my bike this weekend for something else and I had to change my oil so I checked out what they had to say really quickly. Anyway, I've got a 08' Nightster... So I've been draining oil from both the hose and the drain plug nearby. The Service manual says that is not necessary- but then in another section it says to use the drain plug when changing your "primary" oil. Now I'm confused as *****, is that resevoir to something else? It couldn't be cause it always drains when I take the plug out... And what do people mean when they say change there oil on there primary? Pardon the ignorance. Thanks!

 

The drain plug on the case is the primary fluid. The tube is engine oil. Fill your oil bag (2.5 to 3 qts I think), and put a quart in the primary. Actually refer to your manual for amounts.

 

Don't be confused. pretty much like a car- there are separate places for engine oil and transmission fluid......

 

I hope you did not run the bike with no oil in the trans...............

 

Damn... So I keep draining the primary when I change the oil however haven't had any problems? I am only filling the oil up from dipstick/oil cap. There is a seperate place for Primary to fill? Now I'm kidna wondering what the hell is going on!

 

Yes theres a seperate place to fill your Primary, its the same as your trans. The engine and trans oil is the same in Sportsters. You fill the primary from the primary cover. I hope you haven't been riding your bike with no oil in your primary.

 

I think I have been. But the bike runs fine?

 

Is this a joke thread?

 

Right about now I wish it was.

 

the primary is filled through the chain inspection cover on the left side and takes 1 quart of GEAR oil. Most here recommend mobil 1 synthetic 75w-90 that is purchased in a round bottle.

If you used the metal plug under the left side of the bike then you could be having some serious issues.

The engine oil is drained through a tube with a PLASTIC plug secured by a hose clamp. It is located under the centerline of the bike. Usually its easier to see and access from the right side due to the lean angle of the bike.

Hopefully you have only used the plastic plug on the tube.

MH