the 6000 mile oil change

[blackhawkfan]

After a quick 13 mile run this morning to get my scoot to 600 miles, I did the oil change.  Of course, I watched the youtube videos put up by Wayne and some other guy to prep.  Thought I wasn't going to be able to when the side bolt didn't loosen, but finally it did and I was on my way...all over the floor.  The container I used wasn't big enough when you factor in how much of the oil runs down the poorly located brake cable.  When I removed the other bolt with the spring and screen, I was glad  to see there was only like 3 or 4 shavings in it, and I cleaned those up easily.  After replacing the bolts, screwing them in carefully by hand, and then tightening them up with the ratchet, I made a mark on each of them so I'd be able to see if they've loosened. 

I had figured I should remove an ounce and a half from my quart of oil, which I did with a mixmiser.  I took the scoot out for a short ride and after a mile checked the oil.  I didn't have to look at the dipstick because I could see oil up to the inside threads of the neck.  I had the scoot running in the garage for a few minutes before going out, and it is a hot day here.  Is it possible that the oil expands when heated, or did I make a mistake and put in too much?  I have a piece of paper under it to check for leaks, and will recheck the oil when the scoot is cooled down.

[tortoise]

[zombie]

Oil will expand but not enough that any human being could ever notice. I think you simply added a bit too much.
No harm done because the fill port is designed to be below a safe level so no damage can be done.
Just re make the mess, and drain out a little. I loosen the screw, and use it to partly block the drain hole. Maybe a 1/4 cup or so.

That reminded me... Time to change the oil... Thanks!

[PeTroL42]

On my Super 8, the full mark on the dipstick is when the oil is all the way up the dipstick hole.

I usually check the oil just by eyeing it since the oil is so far up the dipstick hole.

[zombie]

You should be able to see the oil if you can get the right angle on it. I try to aim for the mid point on the stick.

[blackhawkfan]

Tonight I continued my 600 mile maintenance with checking the air filter (luckily a burly neighbor came by to loosen the allen bolts on the passenger peg, because they must have been tightened by a gorilla).  The filter did not look dusty at all, which I hope is a good sign.   I did notice when I removed the cover it smelled a little like gasoline or oil.  Next will be my spark plug; I bought one of those iridium ones.  When you gap the plug, I notice there is a range; is it better to aim for the higher or lower number, or does it matter?

[PeTroL42]

You should be able to see the oil if you can get the right angle on it. I try to aim for the mid point on the stick.

With only a 0.95 qt oil sump, I feel every bit of oil counts since these are air cooled engines and the oil accounts for a good amount of that engine cooling.

[PeTroL42]

Tonight I continued my 600 mile maintenance with checking the air filter (luckily a burly neighbor came by to loosen the allen bolts on the passenger peg, because they must have been tightened by a gorilla).  The filter did not look dusty at all, which I hope is a good sign.   I did notice when I removed the cover it smelled a little like gasoline or oil.  Next will be my spark plug; I bought one of those iridium ones.  When you gap the plug, I notice there is a range; is it better to aim for the higher or lower number, or does it matter?

I would probably go with the smaller gap since the gap widens as the electrode wears out but if you don't like the feel of your ride, I'd pull the plug and re-gap it to the bigger gap.

[blackhawkfan]

Thanks for the advice about the gap.  Concerning my oil, it's amazing how checking it on level ground makes a difference   I figured it out later, when I checked it during my test run I parked on the side of the road and the scoot was tilted to the side.  Live and learn...

[zombie]

http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/tech_support/spark_plugs/faqs/faqpregap.asp?mode=nml

From the horses mouth.

[PeTroL42]

http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/tech_support/spark_plugs/faqs/faqpregap.asp?mode=nml

From the horses mouth.

Thanks for the link. 

I never knew this bit of info and is extremely helpful but the article really doesn't state which gap to use if your manual states a range for the spark plug gap like the Super 8 manual does.

[zombie]

Well then it is simple... What you said in your earlier post. The OEM gap range is exactly that. The range that the plug works best in for that engine/ignition system.

Just like the dip stick has a range.

Don't over think it. Smart people already did the math. Now kick back, put on a great album, and think nice thoughts. This worry is done!

[wkreps]

Tonight I continued my 600 mile maintenance . . . . . a burly neighbor came by to loosen the allen bolts on the passenger peg

FYI, You can remove the air filter cover without removing the passenger peg (with a little tilt,twist and pull) but I don't know if you have to to get the actual air filter out. If not, I wouldn't mess with removing the left foot peg.

[blackhawkfan]

FYI, You can remove the air filter cover without removing the passenger peg (with a little tilt,twist and pull) but I don't know if you have to to get the actual air filter out. If not, I wouldn't mess with removing the left foot peg.

Already done  , and you can be sure I'll be listening for any noise from that area based on the recent difficulty you have, wkreps, as well as checking their tightness at the end of the ride.  I carry a 6mm allen wrench with me for my mirror extenders, so it wouldn't be a matter that I'd be stranded or anything if it did loosen, but I'd rather not pick up any more falling parts.