So I bought a 2008 Ultra last year. Previous owner states he had just changed the oil. So now when I do it this spring there is a brown film. Any idea what this could be?

 

You have moisture in the oil. Are you riding long enough to bring engine & transmission up to normal operating temps?

 

Before I drained the oil I ran the bike for a couple minutes but I don’t think I warmed it up enough because the drain plug was still cold to the touch. I live out in the country so when Ride its at least a 15 mile drive.

 

#1 never trust what a previous owner tells you about changing the oil and filter.

#2 Condensation in the oil will take at least 20 minutes of riding, maybe more to get all the moisture out. Did you start it up over the winter just to hear it run?

#3 Change the oil, filter etc then take it out for a good 30 minute ride, check the oil dipstick and it should be clean of any moisture gunk looking stuff.

#4 Probably should change your primary & transmission fluids also, along with checking the moisture content of your brake fluid and maybe flushing that also.

 

I did not start it up over the winter. It just sat with a battery tender on it. I will ride it for a good 3o minutes and check it again as well a change the tranny oil and brake fluid just to be safe. I’m glad it’s only a condensation problem. Thanks for the help. FYI there were no metal shavings on the drain plug.