2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero ABS Engine Oil
Engine Oil
In order for the engine, transmission, and clutch to function properly, maintain the engine oil at the proper level, and change the oil and replace the oil filter in accordance with the Periodic Maintenance Chart. Not only do dirt and metal particles collect in the oil, but the oil itself loses its lubricative quality if used too long.
WARNING
Motorcycle operation with insufficient deteriorated, or contaminated engine oil will cause accelerated wear and may result in engine or transmission seizure, accident, and injury. Check the oil level before each ride and change the oil according to the periodic maintenance chart in the Owner’s Manual. Because of the semi-dry-sump lubrication system, the engine oil level indicated on the dipstick will fluctuate de- pending on the motorcycle’s position and engine speed when the engine is shut off. To ensure proper reading of the engine oil level, follow the Oil Level Inspection procedures closely.
NOTICE
Racing the engine before the oil reaches every part can cause engine seizure.
Oil Level Inspection
If the oil has just been changed or the oil temperature is low, start the engine and warm it up thoroughly until the oil temperature in the transmission room qoes up about 500C (1220F). Depending on the atmospheric temperature, the idle time may be changed according to the following table.
During this time the auxiliary cooling fan may be activated several times.
- Run the engine at idle speed for about 30 seconds or more. Do not run the engine at high engine speed. This fills the oil filter with oil. Stop the engine, then wait 3 minutes or more until the oil settles.
- Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick.
- Wipe the dipstick clean.
- With the motorcycle perpendicular to the ground, thread the oil filler cap/dipstick fully clockwise then remove.
- Check the engine oil level on the dipstick. The oil level should come up between the low and high-level lines on the dipstick.
A. Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick
B. Screw in the oil filler cap/dipstick fully to inspect the oil level.
C. High-Level Line
D. Low-Level Line
- If the oil level is too high, remove the excess oil through the oil filler opening using a syringe or some other suitable device.
- If the oil level is too low, add the oil to reach the correct level. Use the same type and brand of oil that is already in the engine.
NOTICE
If the engine oil gets extremely low or if the oil pump does not function properly or oil passages are clogged, the warning indicator light under the multi-function meter and oil pressure warning symbol in the multi-function meter will go on. If they stay on when the engine speed is above idle, stop the engine immediately and have it serviced. Failure to do so could cause serious engine damage.
A. Oil Pressure Warning Symbol
B. Warning Indicator Light
Oil and/or Oil Filter Change
- Warm up the engine thoroughly, and then stop it.
- Place an oil pan beneath the engine.
- Remove the engine oil drain bolts.
A. Oil Pan Drain Bolt (Front)
B. Oil Pan Drain Bolt (Rear)
- Let the oil completely drain with the motorcycle perpendicular to the ground.
WARNING
Engine oil is a toxic substance. Dispose of used oil properly. Contact your local authorities for approved disposal methods or possible recycling. - Remove the oil filter and replace it with a new one.
NOTE
lf a torque wrench or required Kawasaki special tool is not available, this item should be serviced by a Kawasaki dealer.
A. Oil Filter
Apply a thin film of oil to the packing and tighten the oil filter to the specified torque.
A. Packing
Install the engine oil drain bolts with new gaskets and tighten them to the specified torque.
NOTE
- Replace any gaskets with new ones. Fill the engine oil up to the upper-level line with a good quality engine oil specified in the table.
- Start the engine.
- Check the oil level and for oil leakage.
Tightening Torque
- Engine Oil Drain Bolts: 20 (2.0 kgfrm, 15 ft•lb)
- Oil Filter: 18 (1.8 kgfrm, 13 ft•lb)
Recommended Engine Oil
- Type: Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke Motorcycle Oil* Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke Semi-Synthetic Oil* Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke Full Synthetic Oil* or other 4-stroke oils with API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM and JASO MA, MAI, MA2 rating
- Viscosity: SAEIOW-40
Kawasaki Performance Oils and Lubricants have been specifically engineered for your vehicle. Consistent use of these products meets or exceeds warranty and service requirements and can help to extend the life of your Kawasaki.
NOTE
Do not add any chemical additive to the oil. Oils fulfilling the above requirements are fully formulated and provide adequate lubrication for both the engine and the clutch.
Engine Oil Capacity
Capacity:
- 4.1 L (4.3 US qt) [when filter is not removed]
- 4.3 L (4.5 US qt) [when filter is removed]
- 5.0 L (5.3 US qt) [when engine is completely dry]
Although IOW-40 engine oil is the recommended oil for most conditions, the oil viscosity may need to be changed to accommodate atmospheric conditions in your riding area.