Quick summary
- Follow the same steps as for the Intruder, but note that the oil drain plug is located on the left side of the engine.
- The oil filter is located on the left side of the engine, below the oil drain plug.
- Use the socket wrench to tighten the oil filter bolt to the specified torque (18 ft-lbs for the Intruder, 12 ft-lbs for the VS800).
Maintaining the health and performance of your Suzuki Intruder VS800 motorcycle requires regular oil changes. While the process may seem straightforward, there are key differences between the Intruder and the VS800 that impact the oil change procedure. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps involved in an oil change for both models, highlighting the similarities and variations.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
- New engine oil (10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended)
- New oil filter
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Socket wrench
- Wrench (17mm)
- Rags
Step 1: Preparation
- Park the motorcycle on a stable surface.
- Allow the engine to cool to prevent burns.
- Place the oil drain pan under the engine.
Step 2: Removing the Oil Drain Plug
Intruder:
- Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the engine case, slightly behind the front sprocket.
- Use the 17mm wrench to loosen the plug.
- Carefully remove the plug and allow the oil to drain into the pan.
VS800:
- Follow the same steps as for the Intruder, but note that the oil drain plug is located on the left side of the engine.
Step 3: Replacing the Oil Filter
Intruder:
- Locate the oil filter on the right side of the engine, just below the carburetor.
- Use the socket wrench to loosen the oil filter bolt.
- Pull the oil filter straight out.
VS800:
- The oil filter is located on the left side of the engine, below the oil drain plug.
- Follow the same steps as for the Intruder to remove the oil filter.
Step 4: Installing the New Oil Filter
Both Models:
- Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new oil filter.
- Hand-tighten the oil filter into place.
- Use the socket wrench to tighten the oil filter bolt to the specified torque (18 ft-lbs for the Intruder, 12 ft-lbs for the VS800).
Step 5: Adding New Oil
Both Models:
- Use a funnel to pour the new engine oil into the oil fill hole.
- Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended oil capacity (2.6 quarts for the Intruder, 2.4 quarts for the VS800).
Step 6: Checking the Oil Level
Both Models:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Stop the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
- Check the oil level using the dipstick or oil sight glass.
- Add more oil if necessary to reach the recommended level.
Step 7: Resetting the Oil Change Indicator
Intruder:
- The Intruder does not have an oil change indicator.
VS800:
- Turn the ignition key to the “On” position.
- Press and hold the “Select” button on the instrument cluster until “ODO” appears on the display.
- Press the “Reset” button to reset the oil change indicator.
Final Thoughts
By following these steps, you can confidently perform an oil change on your Suzuki Intruder or VS800 motorcycle. Regular oil changes help maintain engine health, prevent premature wear, and ensure optimal performance.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the recommended oil change interval for a Suzuki Intruder or VS800?
A: Refer to the owner’s manual for the specific interval, but generally, it is recommended to change the oil every 4,000-6,000 miles.
Q: Can I use synthetic oil in my Suzuki Intruder or VS800?
A: Yes, synthetic oil is a good option as it offers improved protection and longer intervals between oil changes.
Q: What is the difference between the Suzuki Intruder and VS800 oil filters?
A: The oil filters for the Intruder and VS800 are different sizes and have different part numbers. It is important to use the correct filter for your specific model.
