First time owner of a Harley and first oil change for me to do. Manual states 3.5 quarts and after filter change,,, I was able to put the entire gallon of oil in and the bike still shows it's 1/2 a quart low. level surface and it's on the kickstand. I am stumped. should I put another 1/2 quart?? i've run the bike for about 3 min. and let the oil settle afterwards as well. any help is much appreciated.

Texx

 

You should RIDE the bike until it reaches normal operating temperature. Take it out for a couple of miles and then check it. The manual also has instructions with regard to cold engine oil level check. If after riding it and getting it to normal operating temperature it needs oil, then add it.

 

I've got an 04' FLHT and it calls for 4 quarts with filter change

 

Same for my '06 FLHT.

 

my manual says 3.5, but it always takes all 4 to get it up to level per the method in the manual. weird.

 

+1

The oil grows quite a bit when warm. Put the three and a half quarts in go for a long ride and get it nice and hot. Then check it and add to the full mark. It wont hurt the bike to be a half a quart low, but if you over fill, it will puke it out the air filter.

When I change my oil, I put in the three and a half, ride to work the next day and then top it off when I get home.

 

my 06 takes 4 quarts with the filter also-ride safe

 

It should be right on the full mark with 4 quarts in it. Primary takes 1 quart and tranny takes 20 ounces unless you have a six speed. Six speed takes one quart.

 

my 04 flhtcu manual states 4 qts. with filter change.....

 

+2 Three minutes on idle is not enough time to let the oil circulate and warm up for a dipstick check at operating temp.