Changing oil for winter?? Filter needed?

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Nov 22, 2008 | 09:31 AM

Catfish57

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From: Western, Massachusetts

Changing oil for winter?? Filter needed?

I have an '08 Electra Glide Standard. I live in Massachusetts. Dealer told me I should have an oil change done before putting the bike away for the winter, that it's shouldn't sit around with the old oil in it. I will be bringing the bike in the spring for it's 10,000 mile maintenance. (I'm only around 8,000 now). The weather is too bad to be riding for 50 minutes to have them do an oil change. Also, I MAY occasionally get the bike out for a quick ride IF there's ever a day the weather might allow.

I suddenly had an inspiration. Why can't I do the oil change myself? Duh. I used to do it on all my old bikes!

But here's the question. Seeing that I WILL bring it to the dealer for it's 10,000 mile maintenance in the spring, should I put a new oil filter in at this time? Is it really necessary?

(Oh - one more thing. It's not like they want me to come in so they can charge me. I've already pre-paid for 3 years service. They just really seem to think the oil should be changed to protect the bike.)

Thanks!

Last edited by Catfish57; Nov 22, 2008 at 09:34 AM.

Nov 22, 2008 | 09:35 AM

RODEO

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You said you might ride it if you get the chance over the winter and it sounds like you will make sure you put the 2000 miles more on before you service her anyway. Change the oil yerself and DO change the filter... What are you talkin about, $10-12??

Nov 22, 2008 | 09:48 AM

WireDawg

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From: WI/ The State of Harley

Always change the filter when doing the oil.........cheaps insurance on a $15k+ bike...............another thought, since your oil & filter will be fresh still this spring......tell the dealer to "Do the 10k service, but DON'T do the oil" you just saved some coin !!!

WD Just read your "Prepaid" statement...........guess I spoke too soon..........sorry !!

Nov 22, 2008 | 10:36 AM

harley-jones

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Joined: Aug 2008

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From: south

Change the filter...Don't want to let old oil set in the engine, even in the filter. Buy the black harley filter and save a few bucks.

Nov 22, 2008 | 10:49 AM

Glideguy08

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From: Ohio

Always change the filter when doing the oil.

Nov 22, 2008 | 11:30 AM

caspr2

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From: Western North Carolina

Yes go ahead and change the filter, they are fairly cheap and remove unwanted crap form the engine.
Any time I change the oil, I change the filter!

Nov 22, 2008 | 11:55 AM

Catfish57

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From: Western, Massachusetts

Thanks guys I guess it looks like I will be getting a filter with my oil. Now I have to wait for a day above freezing so when I ride the bike to warm it up to change the oil it wont cool off and turn to syrup before it drains out.

Catfish