How much oil is too much?

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Jan 23, 2013 | 06:17 AM

Taildragger NC

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Joined: Dec 2012

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From: Liberty, NC

How much oil is too much?

Ok let me first say that I did a search for this topic. I do have a shop manual. Here is the problem. I recently changed my oil in a new to me 99' FLHT and had to put in 6 qts of oil. and it is just barely between the arrows, cold leaning on the side stand. The manual says oil capacity is 4qts. After warming it up and sitting level its pretty close to where it should be. Is this normal?

Jan 23, 2013 | 06:19 AM

Juan L

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From: Ft. Worth, TX

That's a lot of oil! My Road King took a little over three.

Jan 23, 2013 | 06:22 AM

ChickinOnaChain

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I think I read where my FXS takes 5 qts. But 6 makes me wonder where it's all going.

Jan 23, 2013 | 06:23 AM

Rickr01

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From: Vermont

If its new and nobody has added the larger oil pan like the Baker, then you have definately over filled it. The only explanation for the dip stick reading correctly full is if your bike has a larger pan installed.

Jan 23, 2013 | 06:27 AM

rleggs

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From: Laurel,Ms USA

Has an oversized oil pan been added? That or the wrong dipstick would be the only things I can think of unless you have a super size oil cooler that you drained during the oil change. 3.5 to 4 quarts is normal.

Jan 23, 2013 | 06:46 AM

Tanker2

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From: Near St. Louis, Mo.

I had the same bike. It took 4 quarts and it would be a little below the full mark when hot on the side stand. 6 qt. is to much. Also I have a 2012 now and because you can't get the oil cooler drained it only takes about 3 quarts when changed. My 99 didn't have an oil cooler. It should only take a little less then 6 quarts to change all 3 holes on your 1999.

Jan 23, 2013 | 07:03 AM

grbrown

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From: Bedford UK

This is an article about installing an extended oil pan, which may help you identify if yours has one.

What you describe after running the engine is fine! That extra quart or so is a puzzle.....