Lubrication System - Buell P3 2003 Service Manual

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LUBRICATION SYSTEM

CHECKING AND ADDING OIL
Check engine oil level in oil reservoir at least once every 500
miles (800 km). Check level more frequently if engine uses
more oil than normal or if vehicle is operated under harsh
conditions. Check oil when engine is warmed up to operating
temperature (see Hot Check).
CHANGING OIL AND FILTER
After a new engine has run its first 1000 miles (1600 km) and
at 5000 mile (8000 km) intervals or annually thereafter, com-
pletely drain oil reservoir of used oil. If riding habits include
severe dust conditions, operation at temperature above 80
F, extensive idling, speeds in excess of 65 mph and /or exten-
sive two up riding or similar loads the oil should be changed
at 2500 mile (4000 km) intervals. Refill with fresh oil. Always
change oil filter when changing engine oil.
NOTE
See 1.5 ENGINE LUBRICATION SYSTEM
tion on checking oil level and changing oil and filter.
WINTER LUBRICATION
Normal fuel combustion in a gasoline engine produces water
vapor and carbon dioxide along with other gases and particu-
lates. When first starting and warming an engine, some of the
water vapor that gets into the engine crankcase condenses to
form liquid water. If the engine is driven long enough to thor-
oughly warm the crankcase, most of this liquid water is again
vaporized and exhausted through the crankcase breather
system.
A moderately driven vehicle making short runs may not be
able to vacate water vapors allowing liquid water to accumu-
late in the oil reservoir. This is especially true if the vehicle is
°
operated in cold weather. In freezing weather, an accumula-
tion of water in the engine oil may become slush or ice, which
can block oil lines and lead to severe engine damage. Water
remaining in the engine oil for long periods of time can form
an acidic sludge that is corrosive to metal engine parts and
causes accelerated wear of moving components.
In winter the oil change interval should be shorter than nor-
for more informa-
mal. The colder the weather, the shorter the recommended oil
change interval. A vehicle used only for short runs in cold
weather must have the engine oil drained frequently.
3.7
2003 Buell P3: Engine 3-51