How to Change the Oil in a 2012 Beta 350 RS SM: The Essential Guide
Shop parts for a 2012 Beta 350 RS SM Dirt Bike!
Regular oil changes are critical to maintaining the health, longevity – and performance – of your 2012 Beta 350 RS SM. This model, like many Beta thumpers, uses a separate engine and transmission oil system, which requires careful attention to proper oil levels and the correct techniques. Here’s a streamlined proprietary guide from MotoSport for getting the job done right the first time.
What Makes the 2012 Beta 350 RS SM Unique?
- Separate lubrication: Engine and transmission have their own oil circuits.
- No dipstick or traditional level check: Accurately measuring oil and trusting your refill process is crucial.
- High-performance design: Designed for both motard fun and durable trail use, and this requires high-quality oil changes at regular intervals.
What You’ll Need
- 13 mm and 8 mm sockets
- Torque wrench
- Drain pan
- Fresh oil: 10W-50 fully synthetic motorcycle oil
- Beta oil filter and O-rings
- Gloves and basic cleaning supplies
Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure
- Remove the skid plate if installed, to access the drainage points easily.
- Warm up the engine for 2-3 minutes. This helps oil flow and ensures impurities drain out.
- Drain engine oil:
- Place the drain pan under the engine drain bolt.
- Remove the engine drain bolt (usually 13 mm). Allow all oil to drain out.
- Inspect the bolt for metal debris. Clean the tip before reinstallation.
- Drain transmission oil:
- Locate and remove the transmission drain bolt (also generally 13 mm).
- Again, inspect and clean the magnetic tip.
- Remove the oil filter:
- Use an 8 mm socket to remove the two oil filter cover bolts.
- Remove the oil filter and O-ring.
- Let any remaining oil drain out with the cover off.
- Install new filter and O-ring:
- Lubricate the O-ring, fit the new filter (solid end faces filter cover), and reinstall cover bolts. Torque cover bolts to 10 Nm.
- Replace O-rings on both drain bolts (transmission and engine) and reinstall. Torque engine drain bolt to 15 Nm and transmission drain bolt to 20 Nm.
- Refill with oil:
- Engine side: 750 ml of 10W-50 oil
- Transmission side: 750 ml of 10W-50 oil
- Tip: There is no working dipstick or traditional check procedure for the 2012 Beta 350 RS SM. Do not use the check plug or side glass as an indicator. Accurately measure the oil and trust your refill.
- Replace and torque the oil filler caps. Clean any spilled oil and reinstall the skid plate.
- Start engine and check for leaks. Let it idle briefly, then switch off and check drain/filler points for any oil seepage.
Extra Notes for 2012 Beta 350 RS SM Owners
- Never rely on the oil sight window or check plug to determine oil level—they are not intended for accurate oil fills in this model.
- Always use a calibrated measuring cup to portion oil. Under- or overfilling can lead to mechanical issues.
- Change oil at regular intervals (every 10-15 hours of hard riding, or at least every few months).
- Inspect magnetic drain bolts at each change for metal debris, which may warn of abnormal engine or gearbox wear.
Following this proprietary MotoSport guide will help keep your 2012 Beta 350 RS SM running clean, cool and strong, whether on the street or the trail.
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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.