As usual, when reading my mechanical advice…keep in mind I make my living in computers…not motorcycles.
My first oil change on the GS proved to be unexpectedly easy. (The bike’s oil had been changed this summer, at the dealer) As compared to BMW K bikes,the parts are easy to access. The only challenge was locating the right size tool to remove the aftermarket skid plate, why would the plate be secured with one 10mm bolt and 3 ½ inch bolts?
I marked the plate so that I’d remember how to put it back together.
I did need to purchase a new oil filter wrench, no doubt imported from Germany!
I ran the bike for about 10 minutes to warm things up. I’ve put on many unexpected miles this November, so I was a little bit overdue for a change.
Carefully remove the drain plug, try not to let it plop into the waste oil.
When the majority of the oil is drained, remove the oil filter. Take care to hand loosen it at the end so that you’ll have a good grip on it, and sweep it out of the way when the oil pours out.
Examine the old filter. If you look carefully, you’ll see the old filter is missing the ring.
This is an important point. You must now retrieve the old ring. Miss this step and you are in big trouble trying to get the new filter to seed.
Give the new filter a little drink before installing it.
Here is an undershot of the bike, this is where the new filter goes. Try not to get oily gloved hands on the camera! Oil changes are even quicker if you don’t take pictures of each step!
The oil filter and drain plug have been re-installed
Time to add the new oil, and pour the waste oil into a jug, waiting for a trip to the dump (transfer station round these parts)
Make note of your miles, and update your records. And you’re good to go for another…well you decide…I shoot for every 5,000. That way I’m not changing it 4 times a season.
