Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums Performance Mods Oil change question?

Just got done changing the oil for the first 500 miles. When I was done I poured the old oil in to the gallon jug that the new oil came out of. MUCH TO MY SURPRISE THERE WAS ONLY 2 QUARTS IN IT? Now I am really worried!
1. how much damage was done running the bike on 2 quarts.
(yes I did check the oil port and there was always oil)

Probably none, however what kind of riding did you do, how hard to you run the motor, & what temperature range?

Man, you have a problem. If you only had 2 quarts in the bike the oil indicator should have been dry. Have to ask the question, if you checked the oil indicator, did you check it with the engine shut off and level? There is no way your engine could have 2 quarts in it and indicate it had 4. Don't add up. Either your engine was low from new or it burnt or leaked 2 quarts very quickly since you stated that it was checked.

Since obviously you installed 4 quarts what is your indicator showing now? Should be half way on the window.

You probably didn't do any obvious damage because your engine is still running. Maybe some minor rod/main bearing wear if some air was ingested and caused the oil to foam but....

Probably no damage as long as the sump still had oil over the pick up. I wouldn't advise ever doing that again! As long as you kept oil pressure no damage was done, if you lost it here and there then it is possible you did quite a bit but I doubt it. If you have trouble checking your oil put a mirror against the garage wall so you can see the window while sitting on the bike. I think that was Bennys trick.