How to Change the Oil in a 1997 Honda Shadow

The oil in your 1997 Honda Shadow lubricates your bike's engine. Changing the oil is a simple process, and learning the procedure can end up saving you hundreds of dollars in mechanics' fees. Keep the motorcycle upright while you check the oil level to get the most accurate readings and perform oil changes every 3,000 miles to prevent the oil from breaking down and leaving sludge in your engine.

• 1

  Locate the oil drain bolt underneath the left front side of the motor, past the coolant hose.

• 2

  Set a drain pan below the bolt. Remove the bolt with an adjustable wrench and drain the oil into the drain pan.

• 3

  Secure the bolt back into place with the adjustable wrench and locate the oil filter on the backside of the motor. Twist the filter counterclockwise until it comes out completely. Twist the new filter in ,clockwise, until it is secured in place.

• 4

  Locate the oil filler cap and the dipstick towards the right-hand side of the motor. Pour oil into the oil filler cap until it reaches the top line on the dipstick.

• 5

  Start the engine and allow it to run for five minutes.

• 6

  Turn the engine off then wait for it to cool down for five minutes to ensure the oil has drained properly into the crankcase.

• 7

  Check the oil level on the dipstick; it should still read to the top line. Add more oil if necessary.