Oil Change

pddgm

90+ Posts
May 15, 2014
93
19
Sunrise Beach, MO
Name
Smitty
I have checked all the info that came with my trike, and I can't find anything that says how often to change the oil. I keep reading that VW engines run better and last longer if you change the oil regularly. Anyone got any idea, I am guessing I have about 2,000 miles on the change the guy did right before I bought it.



Joe
 
If you have an old VW engine without an oil filter clean oil is very important. If I remember correctly 3K miles is recommended, 2K would be even better. They only hold 2 1/2 quarts so it's not expensive to change oil. The sump plate should be removed and cleaned and re-installed with new gaskets. It's recommended that the sump plate nuts be torqued to 5psi, be careful, it's easy to strip the threads. I tighten them by feel, tight enough to seal the gasket but not enough to strip the threads.ThumbUp
 
Ok, thanks. Guessing I have a new motor since mine has an oil filter on it. I am going to have to learn how to adjust the valves, I had them done when I had the carbs tuned, but there is a ticking coming from the left side and and assuming that's what it is. Seems to get quieter the longer I ride. So maybe it's just the nature of the beast to tick until it gets up to running temps...Joe
 
I change my oil every 3500 - 4000 miles
I adjust my valves every other oil change unless I cant for some reason
I just adjusted them yesterday. All are set to .006
You can hear them a little but that is better then being to tight

My engine has extra oil capacity due to a added oil sump

With the engine, sump and filter it holds 5 quarts
 
Get the numbers from the engine and find out what you have. A lot of Type 1 engines have had an oil filter added which is a good upgrade. Type 4 engines had a factory filter so maybe you have one of those. These engines are somewhat noisy even with everything adjusted correctly, there are no water jackets to muffle the sound. I put on a louder exhaust so I can't hear the clacking.:laugh:
 
I always change oil every 3000 at the most. I have an after market full flow oil filter but still make a point at every 3000 miles. If I am close and going somewhere, I change it before riding.
 

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