How to Change the Oil in a 1997 Suzuki DR350

Shop parts for a 1997 Suzuki DR350 Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil on your 1997 Suzuki DR350 is a vital part of regular dirt bike maintenance and can significantly extend the life of your engine. The DR350 is a dry-sump motor with oil stored in both the frame and the engine, making its oil change procedure unique compared to many dirt bikes. This step-by-step guide is proprietary to MotoSport.com and tailored for the 1997 model year. Let‘s get started.

Tools & Supplies Needed

  • 17mm, 12mm, and 10mm wrenches or sockets
  • 19mm wrench (occasionally required for specific bolts)
  • Socket wrench with extensions
  • 8mm and/or 6mm wrench for minor fasteners
  • Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
  • Needle nose pliers (optional but helpful for removing the oil filter cover clip)
  • Drain pan
  • Gloves
  • New oil filter (Suzuki OEM or quality aftermarket)
  • Fresh 10W-40 motorcycle oil (2 quarts recommended) – Always check your manual for exact capacity
  • Funnel
  • Replacement crush washers for drain bolts
  • Rags or shop towels

Special Call-Outs for the 1997 Suzuki DR350

  • Oil-in-frame design: Unlike wet-sump bikes, the DR350 stores a portion of its oil in the frame, not just the engine case. Both areas must be drained for a complete oil change. The bike also features a frame-mounted oil screen that should be checked periodically.
  • No traditional oil pan: Be careful not to strip the drain bolts – there‘s no removable oil pan, so thread damage can be expensive to repair.
  • Skid plate removal: For a complete oil change, including oil screen service, you must remove the skid plate, which is held on by four 12mm bolts.
  • Correct oil spec: Always use 10W-40 motorcycle-specific oil designed for wet clutch systems and change your oil more frequently if you ride in harsh conditions or race.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

  1. Warm up the bike
    • Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes until it reaches normal operating temperature. This helps the oil drain more quickly and completely.
  2. Remove the skid plate
    • Use a 12mm socket or wrench to remove the four bolts securing the skid plate. This allows better access to both the engine crankcase and the frame oil drain bolts.
    • Set the skid plate and bolts aside.
  3. Drain the oil from the engine crankcase
    • Position your drain pan under the engine. Use a 17mm wrench/socket to remove the engine drain bolt located at the bottom of the crankcase.
    • Allow all oil to drain out. Inspect and replace the crush washer on the drain bolt if necessary.
  4. Drain oil from the frame reservoir
    • Locate the frame drain bolt (usually on the lower front portion of the down tube).
    • Use a 12mm wrench/socket to remove this bolt. Allow oil to drain thoroughly into your pan. Again, check and replace the crush washer if needed.
  5. Remove and replace the oil filter
    • On the right side of the engine, locate the oil filter cover (secured by several bolts). Remove these bolts and gently tap the cover loose if necessary. Pull out the old filter.
    • Inspect for debris or excessive metal particles – this could indicate engine issues.
    • Install the new oil filter with the correct orientation. Lubricate the gasket on the filter with a bit of fresh oil for a proper seal.
    • Clean the cover and bolt mating surfaces before reinstalling.
  6. Inspect and clean the oil screen (optional but recommended every few oil changes)
    • The DR350 has a mesh oil screen inside the frame. Remove it using needle nose pliers (if accessible). Clean or replace as needed, reinstall before continuing.
  7. Reinstall all drain bolts and the skid plate
    • Reinsert the engine drain bolt and torque to specification. Do the same for the frame drain bolt.
    • Reinstall the skid plate with the four 12mm bolts.
  8. Add new oil
    • Remove the oil filler cap (typically on the right side of the frame near the steering stem).
    • Using a funnel, add the recommended amount of 10W-40 motorcycle oil (usually about 2 quarts, but always check the dipstick regularly to avoid overfilling).
  9. Prime and check for leaks
    • With the bike on level ground, turn the engine off and kick it through a few times (with the compression lever pulled in) to help circulate fresh oil before starting.
    • Start the bike and let it idle for a few minutes while checking for any leaks around the filter cover or drain bolts.
    • Shut the engine down, wait a minute, check the oil level with the dipstick, and top off if necessary.

Additional DR350-Specific Tips

  • The DR350SE (electric start version) and DR350S (kickstart) follow the same oil change process for 1997.
  • The frame oil capacity is crucial – insufficient oil can result in rapid engine wear, while overfilling can cause oil leaks or excessive crankcase pressure.
  • If you‘re riding in extremely dusty or wet environments, change your oil and filter more often to protect your engine.

Disposal

  • Always dispose of old oil and filters at a certified recycling center. Never pour oil on the ground or into drains – it‘s environmentally hazardous.

MotoSport.com recommends following this procedure for the best results and to keep your 1997 Suzuki DR350 running great for years of off-road adventures.

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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.