How to Change the Oil in a 1995 Yamaha XT350

Shop parts for a 1995 Yamaha XT350 Dirt Bike.

Maintaining your 1995 Yamaha XT350 with regular oil changes is one of the best ways to keep its air-cooled, DOHC engine running smoothly. This guide is exclusive to MotoSport.com and will walk you through the proper steps, highlight XT350-specific tips, and list the exact tools and supplies you’ll need.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

  • 1.4 liters (1.5 US quarts) of SAE 10W-40 (API SE or higher) motorcycle engine oil (or SAE 20W-40 type SE, as per some guides)
  • New Yamaha OEM or high-flow aftermarket oil filter
  • 12mm, 14mm, and/or 17mm socket wrenches
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Oil filter wrench (optional, but helpful)
  • Oil drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Clean rags or paper towels
  • Gloves
  • Torque wrench (important for proper tightening of fasteners)
  • Safety glasses
  • Service stand or center stand (optional, but helpful for level draining)

Steps to Change the Oil

1. Prepare Your Bike – Start by placing your XT350 on a level surface. A service stand is helpful to keep the bike upright and accessible. If your bike has been sitting, warm it up for several minutes—this helps the oil drain more completely but prevents scalding.

2. Drain the Old Oil – Position your drain pan under the engine. Remove the oil filler cap (on the clutch cover) to help the oil flow out. Using a 12mm or 14mm socket, remove the drain bolt from the underside of the engine. Let the old oil drain completely. Some guides also recommend removing the oil filter air bleed screw (usually a 6mm or 8mm bolt) near the oil filter cover—this will help oil drain fully from the filter cavity.

3. Remove and Inspect the Oil Filter – The XT350’s oil filter is accessible under a cover held by three screws on the right side of the engine (the lower one should be removed first to allow drainage). Remove the filter cover, then the filter element and O-ring(s). Clean the cavity with a rag and inspect the O-ring(s)—replace them if they are damaged or worn. Some owners opt to upgrade to a high-flow aftermarket filter for potentially better oil circulation and to avoid oil pump issues that have sometimes affected older XT350s.

4. Install the New Oil Filter – Insert the new filter element, ensuring any O-rings are properly seated and lubricated with a dab of clean oil. Reinstall the filter cover, tightening the screws to 10 Nm (7.2 ft-lb). Don’t overtighten.

5. Reinstall Drain Bolt and Fill with Oil – Replace the drain bolt with a new crush washer (if available) and tighten to 43 Nm (31 ft-lb). Add 1.4 liters (1.5 US quarts) of fresh SAE 10W-40 oil (API SE or higher, or SAE 20W-40 type SE as per your preference and climate).

6. Check Oil Level – Let the bike sit for a few minutes to allow oil to settle. Start the engine and let it idle for a minute or two, then shut it off and wait a few more minutes. Check the oil level through the sight window on the right side crankcase cover—make sure the bike is straight upright for an accurate reading. The level should be between the minimum and maximum marks. Add more oil if necessary, but do not overfill.

7. Clean Up – Wipe up any spills and properly dispose of the used oil and filter at a recycling center.

XT350-Specific Call-Outs

  • Oil Type: The XT350 is tolerant of both SAE 10W-40 and 20W-40, but 10W-40 is generally recommended for most climates. Always use API SE or higher quality oil.
  • Oil Quantity: Use 1.4 liters (1.5 US quarts) when changing the oil and filter. If you skip the filter, use 1.3 liters.
  • Oil Filter Upgrade: Consider a high-flow aftermarket filter for improved lubrication and to help address the rare oil pump failure issues reported in some early reviews.
  • Cool-Down: Let the bike cool slightly after warming up—oil should be warm but not hot to the touch. This makes draining safer and more effective.
  • Oil Level Check: Always check oil with the bike perfectly upright. A slight lean can give a false reading on the sight window.
  • O-Ring Inspection: Inspect and replace the oil filter cover O-rings during every oil change to prevent leaks.
  • Torque Specs: Use a torque wrench for the drain bolt (43 Nm) and filter cover screws (10 Nm) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.

Final Thoughts

Performing an oil change on your 1995 Yamaha XT350 is straightforward with the right tools and attention to detail. By following this step-by-step guide and heeding model-specific advice, you’ll keep your dual-sport ready for years of reliable adventure. For all your XT350 parts and accessories, shop with confidence at MotoSport.com.

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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.