08-22-2016, 03:45 PM
It's come to my attention that if the oil is allowed to drain for too long (such as overnight or for several hours), a motorcycle's oil pump can lose its prime and the engine can be damaged until it begins to pump properly.
I've never had this happen but it was reported on the ZX-10R forum today. It's rare but it does happen.
To avoid this, follow the procedure in the owner's manual; warm the engine before changing the oil, and don't let it drain any longer than necessary. Fill it straightaway, and check the sight glass per the manual. I've taken to filling the oil filter before installing it, too. Can't hurt anything.
Warming it up makes sure all the oil passages are filled and the pump is primed.
I've never had this happen but it was reported on the ZX-10R forum today. It's rare but it does happen.
To avoid this, follow the procedure in the owner's manual; warm the engine before changing the oil, and don't let it drain any longer than necessary. Fill it straightaway, and check the sight glass per the manual. I've taken to filling the oil filter before installing it, too. Can't hurt anything.
Warming it up makes sure all the oil passages are filled and the pump is primed.