Did you know that regular oil changes are crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic? It's true!

In fact, a study conducted by the Motorcycle Industry Council found that motorcycles with clean oil tend to have fewer engine problems and run more efficiently.

So, if you want to keep your bike running smoothly, it's time to learn how to change the oil.

In this discussion, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process, from gathering the necessary tools to checking the oil levels.

Get ready to give your Harley the care it deserves and ensure a smooth ride for miles to come.

Key Takeaways

Gather the necessary tools and materials, including a Milwaukee Twins oil change kit, a 3/8 drive ratchet, a 5/8 socket for the drain plug, an 11/16 socket for the filter, and a torque wrench for proper tightening.
Prepare the motorcycle for the oil change by loosening the oil dipstick for ventilation, removing the drain plug with a 5/8 socket, inspecting and changing the oil filter if necessary, refilling the engine with the recommended amount of new oil, and checking the oil level using the dipstick.
Drain the old oil by loosening the oil dipstick for ventilation, using a 5/8 socket to remove the drain plug, positioning a drain pan to catch the old oil, inspecting the o-ring on the filter for damage, and removing the oil filter to allow remaining oil to drain.
Replace the oil filter by purchasing a new filter compatible with the motorcycle, applying a small amount of oil to the rubber gasket, hand-tightening the new filter until snug, using an oil filter wrench for a slight additional turn, and checking for oil spills or drips and cleaning them up.

Table of Contents

Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

To begin the process of changing the oil on your 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic, gather the necessary tools and materials. Ensuring you have everything you need will make the oil change process smoother and more efficient. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you gather the required items.

First and foremost, you'll need a Milwaukee Twins oil change kit. This kit contains all the essential components for a successful oil change. Additionally, grab your 3/8 drive ratchet, which will be used to remove the drain plug. Locate a 5/8 socket that fits the drain plug, as well as an 11/16 socket for the filter. These sockets are necessary to loosen and tighten the drain plug and filter, respectively.

Lastly, don't forget your torque wrench. This tool is crucial for achieving the proper torque when tightening the drain plug and filter. It ensures that everything is securely fastened and prevents leaks.

Prepare the Motorcycle for Oil Change

Now that you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, it's time to prepare your 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic for the oil change process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful oil change:

Loosen the oil dipstick: Start by loosening the oil dipstick. This will create a vent for the oil to drain out smoothly.
Remove the drain plug: Using a 5/8 socket, carefully remove the drain plug. Make sure to place a drain pan directly underneath to catch the old oil as it drains out. Allow the oil to completely drain before moving on to the next step.
Inspect and change the oil filter: Take a moment to inspect the oil filter. Ensure that the rubber gasket is in good condition and not cracked or worn out. If necessary, replace the oil filter with a new one.
Refill with new oil: Once the old oil has completely drained, it's time to refill the engine with the recommended amount of new oil. Refer to your owner's manual for the specific oil type and quantity required for your motorcycle.
Check the oil level: After refilling with new oil, check the oil level using the dipstick. Make sure the oil level is within the recommended range.

Drain the Old Oil

Start by loosening the oil dipstick, allowing for proper ventilation during the draining process. This step is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient oil change. Once the dipstick is loosened, grab a 5/8 socket and locate the drain plug underneath the motorcycle. Use the socket to carefully remove the drain plug, making sure to have a drain pan capable of holding at least 4 quarts of oil positioned underneath to catch the old oil.

While the old oil is draining, it's a good idea to inspect the o-ring on the filter for any signs of damage. If you notice any issues, make sure to replace the o-ring before proceeding. Once the old oil has finished draining, remove the oil filter by hand and allow any remaining oil to drain into the pan.

Before installing the new filter, apply a small amount of oil to the rubber gasket to ensure a proper seal. Hand-tighten the new filter onto the engine, making sure it's secure.

Now it's time to add fresh oil. Refer to the service manual for the recommended oil amount for your Harley Davidson Ultra Classic. Use a funnel to pour the oil into the engine, taking care not to overfill. Once the oil is added, start the bike and let it run for a few minutes. Afterward, check the oil level using the dipstick to ensure it's at the proper level.

Replace the Oil Filter

After inspecting the o-ring on the filter for any signs of damage and allowing the old oil to completely drain, it's time to replace the oil filter on your 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic. Follow these steps to ensure a proper replacement:

Purchase a new oil filter that's compatible with your Harley Davidson Ultra Classic.
Before installing the new filter, apply a small amount of oil to the rubber gasket to help create a tight seal.
Carefully hand-tighten the new oil filter onto the engine until it's snug. Don't use excessive force.
Once the filter is hand-tight, use an oil filter wrench to give it a slight additional turn. This will ensure it's securely in place.
Check for any oil spills or drips around the filter and clean them up promptly to prevent accidents or damage.
Double-check that the drain plug and filter are secure before adding new oil to the engine.

Refill With New Oil and Check Levels

To refill your 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic with new oil and check the levels, follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions.

First, grab a funnel and carefully pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine. Make sure to use the appropriate type and viscosity of oil as specified in your motorcycle's manual.

Once you've filled the engine, start your bike and let the oil circulate for a few minutes.

Now it's time to check the oil level. Park your bike on a level surface and put it on the kickstand. Locate the dipstick, which is typically located on the side of the engine.

Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and then reinsert it fully into the dipstick tube. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should fall within the designated range on the dipstick.

If the oil level is too low, you'll need to top it off. Use the information in your manual to determine the appropriate amount of oil to add. Carefully pour the oil through the funnel into the engine until the level reaches the appropriate range on the dipstick.

Make sure to wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert it to double-check the oil level.

Conclusion

In conclusion, changing the oil on a 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic is a straightforward process that can be easily done with the right tools and materials. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you can ensure that your motorcycle's engine is properly lubricated and maintained.

While some may argue that it's easier to take your bike to a professional for an oil change, doing it yourself not only saves you money but also allows you to have a better understanding of your bike's maintenance needs.

How to Change Oil on a 2011 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic