D.I.Y.: Easy-to-Make Sportster Oil Filter Funnel
Reddit user comes up with creative, no-mess oil change method.
It’s no secret that Harley-Davidson makes the best motorcycles around. However, the oil filter position on Sportsters is in a less-than-ideal position, situated at a ninety-degree angle, above the frame and deep into the crankcase. Thus, when it comes to performing a basic oil change, things can get a bit messy.
That is, of course, if you can get the filter off in the first place, which is not always easy. A lot of Harley enthusiasts, including those on our forums, have suggested using an oil filter that has a 17mm nut on the end, allowing you to easily remove it with a 3/8″ drive ratchet and a small extension.
Changing the oil should be an easy enough job, but cleaning up an oil spill and getting your bike clean again is simply no fun. Reddit user DukeofDirt devised this ingenious solution using a cut-up two-liter soda bottle.
Cutting the soda bottle at its midpoint will leave you with a long, tube-style funnel that will carry the oil beyond the frame of the bike and into your drain pan where it belongs. With some clever cutting, you might even be able to leave the funnel in place while you use a 17mm socket or wrench to carefully remove the filter.
This could be accomplished by opening the end or cutting out part of the side of the bottle. Either option will make it a truly no-mess solution!
If you’d like your motorcycle maintenance DIY advice with a more Harley-centric flavor, we suggest you join HDForums. It’s easy, free, and a fun way to network with Harley-Davidson enthusiasts all over the world.
