Variable Oil Level / False Dip Stick Reading

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Jan 14, 2015 | 03:44 AM

Pale Horse Rider

Thread Starter

Tourer

Joined: Sep 2014

Posts: 337

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From: Central Florida

Variable Oil Level / False Dip Stick Reading

I have an '05 Heritage and while checking the oil before a ride noticed it was low. This was a sudden change as the level was consistent for the first 3 months I owned the bike.

Added oil and noticed before the next ride that the oil level was over-full. Took out the extra oil and have had consistent oil level since. It's been a couple months.

Any ideas what would have caused the initial low (false) reading on the dip stick. This has only happened one time in the 6 months I've owned the bike.

Checked the oil on the stand per the manual every time.

Sometimes it's a couple weeks between rides.

Thanks in advance for any direction.

Jan 14, 2015 | 04:37 AM

Gman in NC

Road Warrior

Joined: Sep 2009

Posts: 1,257

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From: Gastonia, NC

You need to check the oil level after running the engine. It will seep into the cases and give a false level after sitting awhile.

Jan 14, 2015 | 06:28 AM

kneesinthebreeze

Road Master

Joined: Sep 2012

Posts: 875

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From: Corp of Discovery trail, Missouri

Too much oil before you go for a ride will blow your oil cap and have a big mess all over you and your bike. Check your oil level after engine is warm as stated before.

Jan 14, 2015 | 06:48 AM

Warp Factor

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Aug 2012

Posts: 3,217

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From: Detroit

It's not uncommon for oil to leak down into the crankcase when sitting. The longer it sits, the more likely. It pumps back into the oil tank when the engine is started. For that reason, check the level after the engine has been run.