how should you check engine oil?

[Stevenc150]

Because engine & metal actually contracts or expands, according to temperatures they're exposed to. So if you check the same amount of oil, each at temps opposite of each other, there'd be 2 different readings - even though the amount is the same, the temp. throws it off.

If they would have made the dipstick to have checked at cold oil levels, you're dipstick fill marks would be different from the ones you have now and you wouldn't have to warmup. It's manufacture choice, but most feel it's more accurate to warmup engine to operating temps, let sit for a few minutes to drain down, and check.

[Garry]

Cheers Steven thanks for the info.
Went to check the bike last night. Left it idling for about 5mins with a few revs at the end.
Turned it off waited 1 min and then checked.
When I unscrewed the dipstick it registered half full but when I screwed it back in and rechecked (as in the owner manual) there was no oil at all on the dipstick.
Am I doing something wrong?
Have I not run it long enough to get the temp up?
Do I need to take it for a run beforehand to check properly?
There are no oil lights coming on while running either iding or while on a run

[Ronin1]

Garry,
Go RIDE the bike around the block (10 minutes),
Get home go inside and get a beer,
Do NOT chug it, wait 10 minutes,
Now go out and check the oil level.

At the one minute mark half the oil is still in the upper engine!

Jim

[1stxb9r]

if i read the manual correctly, crankcase should be checked on race stand/bike straight up, and oil should be checked while bike is on the kick stand. If i miss read please feel free to correct me!

[doberdann1019]

What about brake fluid levels?

Specifically the rear brake fluid. I read the owners manual and it did not specifically say on the stand or straight up. I think it should be straight up but would like to confirm.

[user_deleted]

What about brake fluid levels?

Specifically the rear brake fluid. I read the owners manual and it did not specifically say on the stand or straight up. I think it should be straight up but would like to confirm.

straight up is most accurate reading. you're looking for approx. 1 inch of fluid in rear reservoir....approx. 3/4 inch in front.

[go cytocis]

Can anyone tell me why the Buell has to be hot checked?

Because it's a dry-sump engine. The oil will tend to trickle back into the crank case after it's been sitting so you'll only get an accurate reading immediately after the bike has been shut off and the oil is still collected in the reservoir. All dry-sump engines I am familiar with follow this proceedure.

The most important thing on the XB is to know where on the dipstick the level measures when filled the proper volume of oil, then be CONSISTENT in how you check it every time.

When all other methods fail, read the manual!

[anrkizm95]

Can anyone tell me why the Buell has to be hot checked?

it doesnt i cold check mine its more accurate than hot.it should be just touching the bottom of the stick when cold.

[MrDrumngun]

What oil do you guys put in your primary?

[Negative]

Olive oil...