3.5 quarts is too much for a softail. My 2017 FLSTC takes just a tad over 2.5 to bring it to the full mark with an oil and filter change. The manual says start with 2 quarts, warm it up and then add until full.

 

I suggest that you regard the oil level on the dip-stick as more important than the precise amount of oil you put in! As already suggested above, fill to a nominal level, then top off after running the engine for a short while, even after taking a short ride. Same comment applies to the other two oil reservoirs - fill to the level specified.

 

Purpose of letting it idle on the jiffy stand is because the scavenge hole in the case will allow the max oil to be scavenged from engine case back to tank - when engine is on side stand, oil runs toward the hole and the pump picks it up.

If a softail is severely overfull it blows the dipstick out.

 

Should clarify - oil collects in the return while on jiffy stand and leaves a known quantity of oil in the engine if all is well. Actually tilting toward cam side would scavenge max oil but factory isn't going to recommend that because on the jiffy stand is safe and consistent.

 

Mine says to let it idle in the upright position for 2 minutes. Turn engine off and then check the level on the jiffy stand. Not to idle while on the jiffy stand.

 

Ok - that's just to allow more oil to get to the return - follow the manual.

 

Harley owners manual is off for the oil capacity too much. I let my 16 slim drain for about half hr when oil is hot I keep dipping the bike to level then to the right to get all the oil I can get out. 2.5 qrts I put in after with a new filter if I ride the bike for 20 min it will show a little below full If I ride the bike for over a half hr or more with hot air temps it will show just full this is with the oil temp atleast 220 degrees.There is a big difference between oil levels and how long you ride bike for. 2.5 qrts for my 16 slim with new oil filter is right on the money. I do check oil on jiffy stand, if checking level of course it will show more.
Keith
"LETS JUST RIDE"