How to Change the Oil in a 1999 Suzuki DR350
Shop parts for a 1999 Suzuki DR350 Dirt Bike.
Welcome to MotoSport.com's comprehensive guide for changing the oil in your 1999 Suzuki DR350. The DR350 features a unique dry-sump lubrication system, with oil stored not only in the engine but also in the frame, making the process a bit different—and sometimes trickier—than a typical wet-sump motorcycle. This guide walks you through the steps, highlights model-specific nuances, and lists all required tools, so you can tackle your oil change with confidence.
Tools Needed
- 17mm, 12mm, 10mm, and 19mm wrenches/sockets
- 8mm wrench (for some fasteners)
- Screwdriver (flat-head and/or Phillips, as needed)
- Pair of needle-nose pliers (optional, for hose clamps)
- Oil drain pan
- Fresh 10W-40 motorcycle oil (as recommended by Suzuki, approx. 1.8-2 quarts)
- New oil filter (Suzuki part number recommended)
- New crush washer for drain bolt(s)
- Gloves and rags for cleanup
Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions
-
Warm Up the Engine
Start your DR350 and let it idle for a few minutes to ensure the oil is warm and will drain more completely. Then shut off the engine and place the bike on a stand for stable access.
-
Remove the Skid Plate
Use a 12mm wrench to remove the four bolts holding the skid plate in place–two on the sides and two at the front. This step is essential for access to the frame oil drain and, often, the engine drain plug. While you can skip this if you're only draining the engine, a thorough oil change involves draining both the engine and frame oil, so it's best practice to remove the skid plate.
-
Drain the Engine Oil
Locate the engine drain plug on the bottom of the crankcase (typically a 17mm bolt). Place your drain pan underneath, then remove the bolt and washer. Let the oil drain completely. Replace the crush washer with a new one when reinstalling the bolt–do not overtighten, as the crankcase threads can strip easily.
-
Drain the Frame Oil (Dry-Sump Reservoir)
On the left side of the frame (near the footpeg), you'll find the frame oil drain bolt (usually a 12mm bolt). Remove this bolt and allow the oil to drain into your pan. The DR350's dry-sump design means a significant amount of oil is stored here, so draining both the engine and the frame is necessary for a complete oil change.
-
Remove and Inspect the Oil Filter
Remove the oil filter cover (often requiring a 10mm or Phillips screwdriver, depending on the cover style). Take out the old filter and inspect it for metal debris–excessive metal could indicate engine wear. Install a new oil filter, making sure to lubricate the O-ring with a bit of fresh oil before reassembling.
-
Clean the Frame Oil Screen (Optional)
Inside the frame, behind a plug near the oil filler cap, is a mesh screen designed to catch debris. While not necessary at every oil change, it's wise to remove and clean this screen periodically–just remove the plug, extract the screen, clean it, and reinstall it.
-
Reinstall Drain Plugs
Replace the frame and engine drain bolts, each with a new crush washer. Do not overtighten–tighten just until snug to avoid stripping threads, especially on the crankcase, which lacks a traditional oil pan.
-
Refill with Fresh Oil
Pour in about 1.4 quarts of 10W-40 motorcycle oil through the frame filler neck. After a minute or two, check the level with the dipstick, which is part of the filler cap (the bike should be level, not leaning on the side stand). Add oil in small increments until the level is at the upper mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill–the total capacity is about 1.8 quarts, but always check the dipstick for the correct level.
-
Restart the Bike and Check for Leaks
Start the engine and let it idle for a minute. Check around the oil filter cover, drain bolts, and frame filler cap for leaks. Turn off the engine and recheck the oil level; adjust as needed.
-
Reinstall the Skid Plate
Once everything is dry and the oil level is correct, reattach the skid plate with the original bolts.
-
Properly Dispose of Used Oil and Filter
Recycle your used oil and filter at an approved facility. Never dump used oil or filters in the trash or down drains.
Model-Specific Call-Outs for the 1999 Suzuki DR350
- Dry-Sump Design: The DR350 uses a dry-sump system, meaning oil is stored in the frame, not just the engine. Draining both the engine and frame is necessary for a complete oil change.
- Oil Screen in Frame: There's a mesh screen inside the frame (behind the oil filler cap) that should be cleaned occasionally, not at every oil change. Skipping this can lead to oil flow issues if debris accumulates.
- No Traditional Oil Pan: The crankcase lacks a removable oil pan, so avoid over-tightening the drain bolt to prevent stripping threads.
- Oil Type: Always use motorcycle-specific 10W-40 oil–automotive oil can lead to clutch slippage and engine wear.
- Skid Plate Removal: The skid plate must be removed to access the frame drain plug and inspect the oil screen; skipping this step limits the oil change's effectiveness.
- Crush Washers: Always replace the crush washers on both drain bolts to prevent leaks.
Final Tips from MotoSport.com
Regular oil changes are crucial for the longevity of your Suzuki DR350's engine, especially given its unconventional dry-sump setup. Always use high-quality motorcycle oil, keep an eye on the oil screen, and be gentle with drain bolt torque. With these steps, your DR350 will remain reliable for many miles of adventure.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Motor Oil for a 1999 Suzuki DR350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Filters for a 1999 Suzuki DR350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 1999 Suzuki DR350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Tools for a 1999 Suzuki DR350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 1999 Suzuki DR350 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.