How to Change the Oil in a 1989 Yamaha XT350: A MotoSport.com Step-by-Step Guide
Shop parts for a 1989 Yamaha XT350 Dirt Bike.
Routine oil changes are essential for keeping your 1989 Yamaha XT350 running strong. Here’s a robust, proprietary guide from MotoSport.com showing you everything you need to know, including all tools and step-specific call-outs unique to this classic dual-purpose bike.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Socket wrench and socket set (8mm, 10mm suggested for drain and cover bolts)
- Drain pan or oil catch container
- Funnel
- Rags or shop towels
- New oil filter (genuine Yamaha filter or quality equivalent)
- Replacement oil (SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40, API SE/SF/SF-SE specification)
- Torque wrench (for reassembly and bleed bolt tightening)
- Gloves (optional, but recommended)
Oil Type & Quantity
- Recommended oil type: SAE 10W40 or 20W40, API “SE” or “SF” classification
- Oil capacity (with filter change): 1.4 liters (1.5 US qt)
- Oil capacity (without filter change): 1.3 liters (1.4 US qt)
Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions
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Warm Up the Engine
- Start and run the engine for 2–3 minutes. This warms the oil so it drains out more easily but don’t let it get fully hot to the touch.
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Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped)
- Use the socket wrench to remove bolts securing the skid plate, exposing the drain bolt underneath.
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Drain the Old Oil
- Place the drain pan under the drain bolt located beneath the engine.
- Use your socket to carefully unscrew the drain bolt. Allow all oil to completely drain—this may take several minutes.
- Inspect the drain bolt and washer for damage. Replace the washer if crushed or damaged to prevent leaks.
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Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
- Locate the oil filter cover (right side of the engine).
- Remove the cover bolts and then the cover itself. Take out the old filter—note its orientation for correct installation.
- Use a clean rag to wipe the filter housing clean. Place the new filter in exactly like the old one, following the “outside-in” orientation instructions in your Yamaha manual.
- Check the rubber gasket on the cover; replace if hardened or damaged.
- Reinstall the cover and torque the bolts evenly and to spec (see note below).
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Reinstall Drain Bolt
- Once the oil is fully drained, reinstall the drain bolt with its washer. Tighten gently; overtightening can strip the threads in the aluminum crankcase.
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Refill With New Oil
- Remove the oil filler cap on the right side of the engine and place a funnel in the hole.
- Pour in 1.4 liters (1.5 US qt) of oil if you changed the filter, or 1.3 liters (1.4 US qt) if you did not.
- Screw the filler cap back on.
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Prime the Oil System (Crucial for XT350s.)
- The Yamaha XT350 features a unique oil bleed bolt (located on top of the oil filter housing) for priming the oil pump–a step some bikes do not require.
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How to Bleed/Prime:
- Loosen the bleed bolt about a half turn.
- Crank the engine for a few seconds using the kick starter or electric starter (with kill switch OFF) until oil seeps from the bleed bolt. This ensures the oil pump and filter chamber are full and helps prevent dry starts.
- Tighten bleed bolt to 5 Nm torque (or approximately 3.6 ft-lb).
- Failure to bleed air here could risk oil starvation to the top end during first start-up after an oil change.
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Check for Leaks and Oil Level
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1–2 minutes. Turn off, wait a few minutes, then check the oil level using the sight window or dipstick.
- Add oil if needed. Inspect drain bolt and filter area for leaks.
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Reinstall Skid Plate and Clean Up
- If you removed the skid plate, reinstall it now. Clean any spilled oil off the engine and work area.
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Dispose of Old Oil Responsibly
- Bring used oil and filters to a recycling center or auto parts store; never dump in the trash or outdoors.
XT350-Specific Oil Change Call-Outs
- Always use motorcycle-specific oil (no automotive additives) to protect the clutch and engine; additives can cause slippage and clutch damage.
- Bleeding/priming via the bleed bolt is unique to the XT350; skipping this step can result in top-end engine damage due to lack of lubrication on initial start-up after an oil/filter change.
- Check the compression release lever if hand-kicking after the change—the XT350’s decompression system makes cranking easier but is not required unless you’re manually priming the system as described above.
Always refer to your owner’s manual for torque specs and diagrams for your specific year. Proper care ensures your 1989 Yamaha XT350 delivers reliable adventures for years to come.
Blog proprietary to MotoSport.com. For all your Yamaha parts and tools, visit MotoSport.com—the powersports pros. Ride safe.
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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.