I’m planning to remove the oil pan on my 2011 Ultra and have a couple of questions before getting started. I do have the factory service manual and have reviewed the procedure.

1. The manual recommends removing the oil filter. Is this simply because I’ll be changing the oil as part of the job, or is removing the filter actually necessary for this procedure?
2. I don’t have access to a table lift—only a motorcycle jack. Since the oil pan needs to be slid out the rear with the rear tire removed, I’m considering reinstalling the rear axle after removing the wheel and then placing two jack stands (one on each side of the axle) to support the rear of the bike while I remove the jack. The front of the bike would remain on the front tire.

Would this setup be stable, or does anyone foresee any potential issues with this approach?

My thinking is that this would give me enough clearance to access the oil pan bolts and slide the pan out from the rear.

 

Will work but I`d rather have something longer going thru ( or under) the swing arm to move the jack stands further apart

JMO

 

That's a great idea! Would you know if that is something I could purchase at a big box store? I'm guess some type of steel rod???

 

Rebar might be cheap enough ?
Or two layers of 2 x 6

 

I have done one 2001. Pulled engine 2007. Difference is oil lines and mounting to tranny. I did it with Craftsman jack. I might have stuck axle back in and used jack stand to make it more stable. Can check pictures

A long 3/16 Allen socket will help

 

Memory is it just slides out back with tire off.

 

Personally, I would feel better with the front end in a chock? Again, that's just me. Good luck with your project!

 

Would a product such as a 3/4" x 3' Plain Steel Solid Round Rod Metal Stock, be strong enough and support the motorcycle via (2) jack stands if this rod is placed through the rear fork and the jack stands are placed at each end of the rod?

https://www.homedepot.com/p/3-4-in-x...0015/340450071

 

After learning the tensile and yield strengths of 3/4” cold-rolled steel bar, I would confidently say it is more than strong enough.

 

Why not stick the axle through the swing arm?