I'm only 500 miles past the 1,000 mi. service (done by the dealer) but I wanted to switch to synthetic oil so I did my first oil/filter change the other day with Amsoil 20W/50. Went for a ride and parked it. A day later I noticed a little puddle under the filter. What did I do wrong? Filter too loose or to tight? I did the 1/2 to 3/4 turn after gasket contact. Also, the owners manual says to drain a small amount of oil to clear any air from the drain hose after doing the oil change but the service manual does not mention this step. What do you folks do?

clean up the oil then tighten the filter a bit more. Ive done full turns past contact.

... the owners manual says to drain a small amount of oil to clear any air from the drain hose after doing the oil change but the service manual does not mention this step. What do you folks do?

This is a good idea...gets the air out of the system and prevents cavatation at the oil pump...besides...it only takes a second.
After you drain the oil, just put the host back on and don't tighten the clamp...then, after you are done with the change, just pull it off for a second until the oil starts to come out. Then you can put it back on and tighten it up.

Just make sure you remember to tighten it. (don't ask me how I know but luckily I remembered BEFORE I took of ridding)

I'm only 500 miles past the 1,000 mi. service (done by the dealer) but I wanted to switch to synthetic oil so I did my first oil/filter change the other day with Amsoil 20W/50. Went for a ride and parked it. A day later I noticed a little puddle under the filter. What did I do wrong? Filter too loose or to tight? I did the 1/2 to 3/4 turn after gasket contact. Also, the owners manual says to drain a small amount of oil to clear any air from the drain hose after doing the oil change but the service manual does not mention this step. What do you folks do?

are you sure it's the oil filter? mine leaks at the little "sending unit" just forward of the oil filter (04883)

Mine also has a slite leak from the sending unit. It started at about 1000 miles and I was sure it was from the oil filter. :(
Bob

Mine also has a slite leak from the sending unit. It started at about 1000 miles and I was sure it was from the oil filter. :(
Bob


I had mine replaced by dealer. Solved the problem and it was covered.

If you are not covered the sensor is cheap but you will need a special tool.

Just a thought: 3/4s of a turn or more after the filter makes contact might be excessive. Also, if the gasket isn't lubed it could tear. :shhhh

Might not solve this problem, but may prevent others. :)


Bart

Bigdogbark & Arby-

Since I guess the orig question was answered, we can probably continue the hijack and mention the oil sensor (sending unit). Did you replace? Was the leakage modest or more severe? Did you try tightening yourself? I have a small "sheen" on the underside of the bike, just below and behind the unit, not even enough for a drip, but just enough to notice when I clean her bottom... Anyone else?

:hijack

did you make sure that when you took off the old filter that the rubber gasket came off with it? it wont seal up right if there is two on there.

Thanks for all the good suggestions! I will have to check to be sure that the old filter gasket is not still there. I didn't disturb the sending unit when changing the oil filter but will check it out anyway. I'll have at it on sunday when I get back in town.

. I'll have at it on sunday when I get back in town.

If yer from Albany NY, you'l have all winter to have at it :laugh (sorry, I couldn't resist).