Harley Davidson Oil Change Guide

Changing the engine oil on your beloved Harley Davidson is a fundamental aspect of its upkeep, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your machine. While modern Harleys have their own specific procedures, the classic Shovelhead era, particularly models produced up to 1981, presented a unique approach to oil filtration and servicing. This guide will walk you through the process of changing the engine oil on a 1979 Harley Shovelhead, a task that, with the right tools and a bit of patience, can be managed by most dedicated riders.

The Shovelhead engine, a legendary powerplant that powered Harley-Davidsons from 1966 to 1984, is renowned for its distinctive character and the iconic 45-degree V-twin configuration. With a displacement of 1,340 cc, these engines offer a raw and visceral riding experience. A key difference in the early Shovelhead models, as opposed to later iterations that adopted spin-on automotive filters, is their reliance on an in-oil tank filter element. This means that when you change the oil, you'll also be cleaning and reinstalling this filter.

Before you begin, it's crucial to gather all the necessary items. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and less prone to interruptions. Here's what you'll need:

Essential Tools and Parts

Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure

Preparation is Key:

1. Park your motorcycle: Find a level, well-ventilated area to work. Park the Harley on its side stand. This position will allow for easier access to the oil tank and drain plug.
2. Warm the engine: Start the engine and let it idle for approximately three minutes. This warms the oil, making it more fluid and easier to drain completely. Avoid overheating the engine; a few minutes of idling is sufficient.
3. Stop and cool: Once warmed, stop the engine. Allow the engine to cool for about 10 minutes. This is important for safety to avoid burns from hot engine components or oil.

Accessing the Oil Tank:

4. Remove the rider's seat: Using a flat-head screwdriver, carefully unscrew the bolts or fasteners securing the rider's seat. Lift the seat off and set it aside in a safe place.
5. Locate and unscrew the oil tank cap: The oil tank is typically located on the right side of the motorcycle, directly below where the rider's seat was. Unscrew the oil tank cap. Keep this cap safe.

Draining the Old Oil:

6. Locate the oil drain plug: The drain plug for the oil tank is usually found at the bottom rear corner of the tank.
7. Prepare for draining: Position your 1-gallon plastic jug beneath the drain plug. Insert the funnel into the neck of the jug to ensure that as much of the old oil as possible goes into the container, minimising mess.
8. Loosen and remove the drain plug: Using your socket wrench, loosen the oil drain plug. Once it's loose enough, unscrew it by hand. Be prepared for the oil to start flowing out immediately. Let the oil tank drain completely.
9. Clean and replace the drain plug: Once the oil has finished draining, wipe the drain hole area clean with a shop towel. This removes any residual oil or debris that could interfere with a good seal. Screw the drain plug back into place by hand to avoid cross-threading.
10. Torque the drain plug: Using your torque wrench, tighten the drain plug to the manufacturer's specified torque. For many Shovelhead models, this is around 18 foot-pounds. Overtightening can strip the threads, while undertightening can lead to leaks.

Servicing the Oil Filter:

11. Locate and remove the oil filter cap: The oil filter assembly is typically located at the top of the oil tank. Unscrew the oil filter cap.
12. Remove the oil filter assembly: Carefully pull out the entire oil filter assembly from the oil tank.
13. Disassemble the filter element: You'll notice a D-shaped ring holding the filter assembly together. Use pliers to carefully remove this clip. Once the clip is removed, pull off the upper washer, and then slide the oil filter element out of the outer filter housing.
14. Clean the filter element: This is a critical step for Shovelhead models with reusable filter elements. Soak the filter element in a parts cleaning solvent until all old oil and debris are removed. Gently squeeze out the excess solvent. Do not wring or twist the element, as this can damage the metal mesh or internal structure. Allow it to air dry or gently wipe it with a clean shop towel.
15. Reassemble the filter: Once the filter element is clean and dry, carefully reinsert it into the outer filter housing. Place the upper washer back over the element and reattach the D-shaped retaining clip. Ensure it's securely in place.
16. Reinstall the filter assembly: Push the reassembled oil filter assembly back into its housing within the oil tank. Screw the oil filter cap securely back into place.

Refilling and Final Checks:

17. Add new engine oil: Carefully pour approximately four quarts of the specified 20W-50 Type-SF engine oil into the oil tank using your funnel.
18. Replace the oil tank cap: Screw the oil tank cap back on securely.
19. Circulate the oil: Start the engine again and let it idle for about three minutes. This allows the new oil to circulate throughout the engine and fill the oil filter.
20. Allow oil to settle: Stop the engine and let the oil settle in the tank for another 10 minutes. This is crucial for an accurate oil level reading.
21. Check the oil level: Now, lift the motorcycle off its side stand and into a level, upright position. Look into the oil tank's filler neck. The oil level should ideally be about 1 inch below the bottom of the filler neck.
22. Adjust oil level: If the oil level is too low, add a small amount of oil and recheck after settling. If it's too high, you may need to use a hand pump to remove the excess oil. Aim for that precise level for optimal engine lubrication and to prevent potential issues like oil blowing past seals.
23. Secure the motorcycle: Once the oil level is correct, screw the oil cap firmly into place and lower the motorcycle back onto its side stand.

Final Touches:

24. Reinstall the rider's seat: Place the rider's seat back onto the motorcycle and secure it with the fasteners you removed earlier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: How often should I change the oil on my Shovelhead?
  A: It's generally recommended to change the oil and filter every 2,000 to 3,000 miles or at least once a year, whichever comes first. However, consult your owner's manual for the most accurate recommendations for your specific model.
• Q: Can I use a different oil weight?
  A: While 20W-50 is the classic recommendation, always refer to your Harley-Davidson owner's manual or a trusted service manual for the correct oil specification for your Shovelhead's year and operating conditions. Using the wrong oil can damage your engine.
• Q: What if my Shovelhead has a spin-on filter?
  A: Later Shovelhead models (typically post-1981) and Evolution engines use a spin-on filter. The process for those is different, usually involving an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter and installation of a new one. The draining and refilling process is similar, but the filter servicing is simpler.
• Q: Where can I dispose of used engine oil?
  A: Never pour used oil down drains or onto the ground. Take your used engine oil to your nearest Harley-Davidson repair facility, an auto parts store that accepts used oil, or a local recycling centre. Proper disposal is crucial for environmental protection.
• Q: My Shovelhead seems to use a bit of oil. Is this normal?
  A: Shovelhead engines, due to their design and age, can sometimes consume a small amount of oil. Regular checking of the oil level is essential. If you notice excessive oil consumption, it might indicate an issue that needs professional diagnosis.

Performing a regular oil change is one of the most impactful maintenance tasks you can do for your Harley Davidson Shovelhead. It not only keeps the engine running smoothly but also helps in early detection of potential problems by observing the condition of the old oil and filter. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure your classic machine continues to purr for many miles to come. Remember, consistent maintenance is the secret to a happy vintage motorcycle.

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