| Like most riders you are probably ready for the | | | | your engine) |
| snow to melt so you can get out and hit the trails | | | | Put the drain pan or some type of oil collection |
| this spring, but is your machine ready? | | | | device under your machine. |
| There are 5 areas that I will discuss in a 4 part series | | | | Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain out. Use |
| that will help riders get their machines ready for | | | | the oil filter wrench to remove the oil filter. |
| spring, (1) Fluid Levels (2) Battery Condition (3) Tire | | | | After all the oil has stopped dripping, replace the plug |
| Condition (4) Carburetor Condition (5) Safety Check | | | | and the filter. Take your finger dip it in the oil and |
| (1) Fluids: Oil and Coolant: Check your owners manual | | | | apply a thin coat around the gasket on the oil filter |
| or with the service department at your local dealer | | | | before you replace it, this will help it seal better. Snug |
| to see how often you should change your oil. | | | | the filter tight with the oil filter wrench. Dispose of |
| Changing your oil is not a difficult process, but you will | | | | the oil properly, your local auto parts store will most |
| need the following tools/accessories: | | | | likely accept your oil to recycle. |
| (a) oil filter wrench; | | | | Add oil to the manufactures specifications and check |
| (b) crescent wrench or the appropriate sized wrench | | | | the oil level. |
| to remove the oil plug | | | | While your checking Fluid levels look at your coolant |
| (c) a drain pan. | | | | level if you machine is liquid cooled and make sure |
| Locate your drain plug (it is located on the bottom of | | | | that it is within the correct range. |