The first Harley XL Sportster was introduced in 1957. Oil change intervals are dependent on climate zone, amount and type of use. In hotter climates, for example, the oil should be changed more often. The owner's manual will give specific time and mileage in the different climate zones. As a rule, Harley recommends 20/50 oil. The 883 takes 3 quarts to fill the oil tank.
Instructions
- 1
Start the cycle and allow it to warm up so the oil will thin and drain faster. Shut the cycle off. Remove the oil cap and dip stick from the oil tank. Place the drain pan under the oil filter on the left front of the engine.
2Remove the oil filter with the filter wrench by turning it counterclockwise. As soon as the filter is loose thread it off the rest of the way by hand. Tip it up as soon as it comes off to prevent as much oil spill as possible. Place the filter face down in the pan. Allow it to drain completely.
3Place a little oil on the rubber O-ring on the filter and add about 4 oz. of oil to help prime the oil system. Thread the filter on clockwise, and tighten it by hand only.
4Move the drain pan back under the battery box and just in front of the swingarm. Look for a drain hose with a clamp holding it onto a plug in front of the swingarm. Loosen the clamp with a wrench until it can be pulled off the plug, and bend it straight down so it drains into the pan. Allow the oil to drain completely.
5Move the hose back to the plug in front of the swingarm and tighten the clamp securely so there are no oil leaks. Wipe everything down with a cloth. Pour 3 quarts of oil in the oil tank. Insert the oil dipstick and replace the cap.
6Start the cycle and watch for the oil pressure light to go out. It should go out in less than 1 minute. If not, shut the cycle off. Loosen the drain hose clamp and allow a small amount of oil to drain out and retighten the clamp. This will evacuate air that may have been caught in the hose.
