I did a quick search and didn't find anything. I have a '16 RG.

My owners manual and HD service manual both say the engine oil capacity is 4 quarts. They also say add 3 quarts, then add whatever needed to bring it up to the proper level.

I changed the oil and filter. I also disconnected the cooler lines and shot some compressed air through just to see how much oil would come out. About 2 oz.

I added 3 qt., ran it at idle for about 3-4 minutes, shut it off for about 5 minutes and checked it. It was right in the middle, between the hot mark and add 1 qt. mark on the "bike straight up" scale.

Every time I ride it I check the engine oil. As people here know, on the dip stick it says "screw it in" or something like that. I was expecting to put about 3.5 qt. in.

Just checking with the brain trust here to make sure everything is cool.

 

You are way over thinking man. I just did my 30k service and follow exactly what the manual says. Never had to add any extra oil.

 

I usually just dump 3.5 quarts in and ride it about a mile or two then check the level. Sometimes I add another couple ounces or so but usually its just where it should be.

 

I normally will ride the bike a few miles to get up to normal temps..I dont seem to get an accurate reading from just letting the idle for a few mins.. I like to keep the oil in the middle of the stick( bike up right when checked) .

 

I have found that 3.25 to 3.5 quarts does the job. Mostly, it depends on how patient I am about letting the old oil drain completely

 

If you put in three quarts, run it for a minute or so and let it sit for a few minutes, the dipstick will show around 3/4 full. Which is perfect.

If you fill it up to the "full" line, then you'll get an oil soaked air filter, just like most owners.

 

I've had a 2009 Road King, 2014 Street Glide Special & now a 2015 Ultra Limited. All three were perfect on 3.5 quarts. Putting 4 quarts in, like another said here, you will see it in your air cleaner.

 

I just dump the oil in and check in a 500 or 1000 miles or so, unless I know there is a leak.

When did they start saying to add 3 and check and then add? What would cause it hold oil?

It has been common for many people to leave 1/2 quart low. Interesting that some years are taking 3.5.

 

Probably has to do with how long you let the old oil drain. I never left a 1/2 quart in the bike but there are times a few ounces are leftover. Dump in 3.5 quarts and its almost always good to go, now and then I need to add a few ounces to get it up around the half way mark on the dipstick.

 

I replace all 4 quarts but I use a Scavenger Oil Changer Kit. I don't like the idea of leaving contaminated oil in the engine when I do an oil change.