How to Change the Oil in a 1987 Yamaha TW200

Shop parts for a 1987 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Keeping up with regular oil changes is crucial to the longevity and performance of your 1987 Yamaha TW200. This detailed guide, proprietary to MotoSport.com, walks you step-by-step through the entire oil change process, including all the tools you'll need and specific call-outs for this model. Even if you're new to bike maintenance, the TW200's simplicity makes this a perfect DIY job you can do in under an hour.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • 19mm socket or wrench (for drain plug)
  • 8mm socket or wrench (for oil filter cover bolts)
  • 5mm Allen socket (for the oil filter housing)
  • 10mm socket and T40 Torx bit (for skid plate, if equipped)
  • Oil catch pan
  • Replacement oil filter
  • O-rings (drain bolt and oil filter cover, highly recommended to replace)
  • Contact cleaner and rags (for cleaning parts)
  • Funnel
  • High-quality 4-stroke engine oil (consult owner's manual; typically, 1.1L of 10W-40 is recommended)
  • Rubber gloves and safety glasses

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

  1. Warm Up Your Engine
    • Start the TW200 and let it idle for 2–3 minutes. This thins the oil, helping it drain more completely.
    • Shut off the engine and ensure the bike is securely on its side or center stand.
  2. Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped)
    • Use the 10mm socket or T40 Torx (depending on your hardware) to remove the skid plate for better access to the drain bolt and filter.
  3. Remove the Oil Filler Cap
    • Unscrew the oil filler cap on the right (clutch) side of the engine. This allows air in and oil to drain freely.
  4. Drain the Engine Oil
    • Place the oil catch pan under the bike.
    • Use the 19mm socket to remove the drain bolt at the bottom-left of the crankcase.
    • Special call-out: The drain plug contains a spring and a wire mesh filter (oil screen). Be prepared to grab these before they drop into the dirty oil.
  5. Remove and Clean the Oil Screen
    • Carefully remove the spring and mesh screen; note their orientation for proper reinstallation.
    • Clean the mesh screen with contact cleaner if there's debris; let it dry completely before reinstalling.
  6. Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
    • On the right engine cover, use the 8mm socket and 5mm Allen to remove the oil filter cover bolts
    • Carefully remove the old filter, noting its orientation (open end faces out).
    • Inspect and replace the O-ring on the oil filter cover. Install the new oil filter (paper type if replacing).
    • Model-specific call-out: Incorrect oil filter orientation is a common mistake. On the TW200, the filter's open end must face outward toward the cover, not inward.
  7. Reinstall Oil Filter Cover and Drain Plug
    • Ensure the O-ring on the drain plug is in good condition; replace if cracked or flattened.
    • Reinsert the clean oil screen and spring, followed by the drain plug. Tighten to the specified torque (check your service manual; typically around 18 ft-lbs).
    • Reinstall the oil filter cover, tightening the bolts snugly but not over-tightening.
  8. Add New Oil
    • Using a funnel, pour in about 1.1 liters (1.2 US quarts) of your chosen 10W-40 four-stroke oil.
    • Replace the filler cap and clean up any spills.
  9. Check for Leaks – Oil Level
    • Start the engine and let it idle for a minute. Shut it off and wait a few moments.
    • Check for leaks at the drain plug and oil filter cover.
    • With the bike level, check the oil sight glass or dipstick. Top off if necessary, without overfilling.
  10. Reinstall the Skid Plate
    • Replace the skid plate using the original bolts. Torque to spec.
  11. Dispose of Used Oil Properly
    • Never pour used oil down drains or in the trash. Take it to a recycling facility or auto parts store that accepts used oil.

Special Tips and Call-Outs for the 1987 TW200

  • The oil filter orientation is crucial: install with the open side of the filter facing the filter cover, not the engine block.
  • Drain plug O-ring and oil filter cover O-ring should be inspected every oil change; leaks are common from old or damaged O-rings.
  • This engine uses a simple wire mesh oil screen in addition to a standard oil filter; be sure both are clean and present at assembly for full oil filtration.
  • If the oil has a milky appearance, water may be present (check for leaks or improper storage). This model's simple design makes it easier to spot issues during the oil change.

When to Change Your Oil

  • Follow Yamaha's recommendation for intervals, but for vintage bikes like the 1987 TW200, plan on an oil and filter change every 1,000–2,000 miles, or at least once a year.
  • Always perform an oil change before and after long storage to prevent internal corrosion.

Oil changes on the 1987 Yamaha TW200 are straightforward, thanks to the uncomplicated engine design and generous working space. Paying attention to filter orientation and O-ring condition ensures mess-free, leak-free rides. With the proper tools and attention to detail, this essential maintenance task keeps your classic dual-sport running strong on trails or tarmac for decades to come.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Motor Oil for a 1987 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Filters for a 1987 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 1987 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Shop Tools for a 1987 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 1987 Yamaha TW200 Dirt Bike.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.