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GL1200 checking the oil

1431 Views 9 Replies 10 Participants Last post by  johnmac
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Hi,



I have a problem getting a correct reading on the dipstick. The manual says to run it for 2 minutes, but that doesn't give me the same reading as when its cold. It reads less when its run.



I changed the oil and filter, and added in the exact amount that the manual says to. So it's on the centre stand and I just can't get an accurate reading.



So, does anyone know what's happening here? It's up, it's down. Am I doing something I shouldn't be, or not doing something I should be?



Thanks



Homer (TTV)
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When I had my 1200 I had the same problem so I used the cold reading as a reference point since it should always be in the same spot when it's cold.
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Homer,

When checking the oil level, make sure that you only insert the dipstick to the point where the threads hit the top of the dipstick hole. The manual says “insert the dipstick without screwing it in”. If you screw it all the way in you will not get the oil level set right.
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TTV wrote:
I have a problem getting a correct reading on the dipstick. The manual says to run it for 2 minutes, but that doesn't give me the same reading as when its cold. It reads less when its run.
When checked after setting for a time, most of the oil in the heads, and that clinging to engine internals, drains back into the sump; and raising the level a bit would be expected.

After running for 2 minutes, oil is returned to the heads & internals, so a lower sump reading would then also be normal. :waving:
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WingMan71 wrote:
Homer,

When checking the oil level, make sure that you only insert the dipstick to the point where the threads hit the top of the dipstick hole. The manual says “insert the dipstick without screwing it in”. If you screw it all the way in you will not get the oil level set right.
OHhhhhhhhhhh
Going to garage now,
positive I been screwing in
that would be how low?
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From the 85 handbook

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i just checked my oil. for some reason it was missing like half a quarter, and i had refilled about 3 weeks ago. well

i had her warming up like 5 mins. shut it off... checked the oil reading...

repeated the process to warm the new oil. and checked again.
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hello,

yes I have the same problem, its really hard to get a correct reading, when she is hot, so I have reverted to checking when she is cold.

I took note as to where the oil showed on the dipstick when the oil was changed, and now, at cold I just pull the dipstick, and if it shows at the top mark, thats great.

Iv'e never had a problem.

cheers,
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i check mine when cold in vertical position, if i see the level on top notch,i press the little button and ride off ...lol
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I would take a reading, then turn the dipstick 1/2 turn and read it again. Then average the two readings. I always read with the flat part horizontal, not vertical. Just for consistency

John.
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