How to Change the Oil in a 1992 Suzuki DR350S – Step-By-Step Guide

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Tools & Materials Needed

  • Oil drain pan
  • Socket wrenches (14mm, 12mm, 17mm)
  • 8mm wrench
  • Screwdriver (optional, for skid plate or oil filter cover)
  • Needle nose pliers (helpful for removing oil strainer)
  • New oil filter (Suzuki part #16510-37440 or equivalent)
  • New O-rings (for oil filter cover and strainer)
  • New crush washer (for drain bolt)
  • Engine oil (2 quarts, SAE 10W-40, motorcycle-specific)
  • Disposable gloves
  • Rags or shop towels

1992 Suzuki DR350S Oil Change – Essential Call-Outs

  • This model uses a dry-sump oil system—oil is stored in both the crankcase and the frame, so you must drain both.
  • There’s a screen-style oil strainer inside the frame that should be inspected occasionally, but it’s not mandatory to check every single oil change.
  • Remove the skid plate only if accessing the frame drain, oil strainer, or for a complete service. It’s held on by four 12mm bolts.
  • Replace all O-rings and the crush washer regularly to avoid leaks.

Step-By-Step Oil Change Instructions

  1. Prepare the Motorcycle and Work Area
    • Start and warm up the engine for a couple of minutes to thin the oil, making it easier to drain.
    • Place the bike on a level surface and secure it with a stand.
    • Lay out tools, rags, and your drain pan.
    • If you’re planning a full oil change (including cleaning the screen), remove the skid plate by unscrewing the four 12mm bolts underneath the motor.
  2. Drain the Engine Crankcase Oil
    • Locate the crankcase drain plug on the bottom of the engine. Use a 14mm socket wrench to loosen and remove the plug.
    • Allow all oil to drain out into your oil pan.
    • Replace the crush washer on the drain plug before reinstalling.
    • Reinstall and hand-tighten the crankcase drain plug. Torque to spec if possible.
  3. Drain the Frame Oil
    • Find the frame oil drain bolt—it’s typically on the front, low part of the frame, near the downtube.
    • Using a 12mm socket, remove the drain plug and let oil fully drain into the pan.
    • Replace the crush washer and reinstall the bolt.
  4. (Optional/Recommended) Clean the Oil Strainer
    • The oil strainer screen lives inside the frame drain. Remove carefully with needle nose pliers.
    • Inspect and clean if needed; replace the O-ring if it’s damaged.
    • Note: Some owners skip this step routinely and only check the strainer every few oil changes, as the screen rarely catches much unless there’s an underlying issue in the engine

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  5. Replace the Oil Filter
    • The oil filter resides in a cover on the right side of the engine block.
    • Remove the three 8mm (or 10mm) bolts holding the cover in place.
    • Take cover off, remove old filter, and note the O-ring placements.
    • Install a new filter (verify it’s facing the right direction).
    • Replace the filter cover O-ring and center O-ring if worn or damaged.
    • Reinstall cover and tighten the bolts evenly.
  6. Refill with Fresh Oil
    • Fill up the oil via the oil filler cap on the frame neck (just behind the handlebars).
    • The 1992 DR350S typically calls for 1.8–2.0 quarts (1.7–1.9 liters) of oil when changing the filter.
    • Use only motorcycle-specific 10W-40 oil.
    • After filling, let the oil settle. Crank the engine over gently (use the kickstarter a few times with ignition OFF) to circulate oil, then top off if needed

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  7. Check for Leaks, Final Oil Level, and Reinstall Skid Plate
    • Start the bike and let it idle for 1–2 minutes. Shut it off, wait a few minutes, and use the dipstick (on frame neck) to check oil level.
    • Top off if necessary; do not overfill.
    • Inspect around the drain plugs and filter for leaks.
    • If removed, reinstall the skid plate with the four bolts.

Vital Tips for 1992 DR350S Owners

  • Always check the oil level after the first ride, as air pockets in a dry-sump system can sometimes cause level changes.
  • Make sure all O-rings and the crush washer are in good condition—failure here is the most common cause of leaks

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  • The oil change frequency depends on riding conditions, but fresh oil is the most important maintenance for this engine’s long life.
  • The oil filter and o-ring sizes for the 1992 DR350S are the same as other years/models listed, but always double-check your part numbers and dimensions.

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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.