I just changed my primary for the first time. Following the SM I put the bike on the center stand, opened the chain inspection cover and the clutch cover. I had a really hard time determining the oil level - what am I looking for?

Since I was doing a change anyway I pulled the drain plug, dumped and then put it back. Per the manual I went to put in 2 quarts and after I got1 1/2 in oil started pouring out. I was still confused as to how to check the level.

Anyway - should I have had the bike on the jiffy stand to drain the oil - this makes sense as to why 2 quarts would not go in if there was still some left behind. And - I never did see the oil level under the clutch cover.

Advice?

 

If yours is an '02,it only takes 32oz.
To check the level,it should be no higher than the bottom of the clutch spring.

I think it makes no difference if you drain it level or on the Jiffy.I always drain mine on the Jiffy with the motor warm/hot.

 

WOW! 2 quarts ??

 

32oz is all the TC88 takes. You will need a flashlight to see inside the derby cover. The fluid should just cover the bottom of the clutch basket. Since you a chain inspection cover, pull it off and turkey baster the extra quart out that you put in and check the level as you go.

 

2 quarts. What bike are you putting that into. A big twin takes 1 quart

 

The SM should show an illustration of the proper level. It should also tell you the "wet" fill amount, which apparently for your bike is 32 oz. (for future reference). Take Dawg's suggestions and when you check the level make sure the bike is upright, not on the kickstand. Since the level isn't easy to see on many bikes, especially when you're by yourself and trying to hold it level, for future maintenance I would suggest just adding the prescribed amount of new fluid.

If you use the quantity method (32 oz., no level check) you may need to put the kickstand on a 2x4 to bring it toward level, as otherwise the oil may drain out of the Derby opening. You can also add the oil through your inspection cover, which newer bikes don't have.

 

The horse already left the barn, but there should be a section in the service manual with all fluid capacities.

 

My '06 OM had two methods of filling.

 

Oh - major DUH on my end. Guess what - there are 32 oz in a quart, not 16 like I thought! This pretty much explains everything. I will get the extra out.

I should have paid less attention to Linda Pope and more attention to the math teacher.

 

All is good - now I just need to remember to get mama a new turkey baster before Thanksgiving.