How to Change the Oil in a 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F – MotoSport.com Proprietary Guide
Shop parts for a 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F Dirt Bike.
Regular oil changes are one of the best ways to ensure your 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F runs smoothly and lasts for years. This guide walks you through every step, highlighting model-specific tips and best practices to get the job done right every time.
Tools and Materials Needed
- 13mm socket or spanner – For the main drain plug
- 8mm socket or spanner – For certain bolts and cover screws
- Torque wrench – For precise reassembly (especially small cover bolts, recommended at 7.4 Nm)
- Fresh oil filter – OEM or equivalent preferred
- 1 liter of 4-stroke motorcycle oil – Check manual for exact spec (typically 10W-50 full synthetic)
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Clean shop rags
- Contact cleaner or degreaser (optional, for cleanup)
- Gloves
- Bike stand (recommended for stability)
Preparation
- Warm the engine for 2-3 minutes to help the oil flow out easily and remove more contaminants.
- Switch the ignition off, put the bike securely on its side stand or a bike lift for safer access.
- If equipped, remove the skid plate. For the 2013 350 EXC-F, KTM makes it simple by using a pin system—twist the pin and pull the plate off.
Step-by-Step Oil Change
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Locate the Drain Plug and Oil Screen
- Find the 13mm drain plug on the left side near the bottom of the engine case, along with the small oil screen cover nearby.
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Drain the Old Oil
- Place a drain pan underneath. Slowly loosen the drain plug with the 13mm socket.
- Back it out gently, applying slight inward pressure as you loosen it to prevent dropping it into the pan.
- Allow all oil to drain out completely. This may take several minutes.
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Remove and Inspect Oil Screens
- Remove the small bolt holding the oil screen cover (8mm socket may be required).
- Carefully pull out the oil screen. Inspect for metal shavings or debris; clean with brake cleaner if necessary, or replace if damaged.
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Replace the Oil Filter
- On the right side, remove the oil filter cover—usually held by two bolts.
- Pull the old oil filter out.
- Model-Specific Note: For KTM 350 EXC-F (2012-2016), it's best to lay the bike gently on its right side after draining oil. This helps hold new oil in the filter cavity during installation (per KTM manual; see below).
- Prime the new filter: Before inserting the new filter, partially (1/3 to 1/2) fill the filter cavity with fresh oil. This reduces dry starts and protects the engine. Insert the new filter slowly to allow it to soak up oil and avoid spillage.
- Reinstall the filter cover, ensuring the O-ring or gasket is clean, undamaged, and properly seated.
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Replace the Oil Screen and Drain Plug
- Insert the cleaned oil screen back in its slot.
- Reinstall the cover and tighten bolts by hand first, then torque them to 7.4 Nm (do not over-tighten, as the bolts are small and easy to strip).
- Reinstall the drain plug. It's good practice to replace the crush washer or O-ring on the drain plug if it looks worn or damaged. Tighten to factory torque spec (typically about 15 Nm, but always verify your owner's manual).
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Refill with New Oil
- Stand the bike upright again.
- Remove the oil fill cap (right side), insert a funnel, and pour in about 1 liter of fresh oil.
- Check the oil level using the sight glass. The oil should settle near the center of the sight glass when the bike is upright and level.
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Start the Engine and Check Levels
- Start the bike and let it idle for about 30 seconds.
- Turn the engine off, wait a minute, and check oil level again—top off if necessary.
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Reinstall Skid Plate and Clean Up
- Replace the skid plate (align the pin with the frame and secure).
- Wipe down any oil drips and dispose of oil properly.
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Reset Maintenance Records
- Use your odometer or trip meter to track hours or kilometers until the next oil change. Many riders reset trip 2 as an oil-change tracker.
Special Model-Specific Call-Outs for 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F
- Prime oil filter cavity: KTM recommends filling the filter cavity partially before installing a new filter. Many owners lay the bike on its side at this stage to make this easier and prevent air pockets or dry starts.
- Torque values are low: The oil screen and filter cover bolts require only 7.4 Nm; use a torque wrench to avoid stripping threads.
- Oil change frequency: KTM manuals suggest every 15 engine hours in race conditions, but casual riders can double or triple that interval. Always change at least once a year, even with low mileage.
- Sight glass: After refilling oil, use the engine's sight glass on the right side to confirm proper level—it should rest near the middle circle with the bike level.
Common Oil Change Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-tightening bolts, especially filter covers and drain plug.
- Neglecting the oil screen—always remove and clean during oil changes.
- Not priming the filter cavity, increasing risk of dry starts.
- Forgetting to check the sight glass after warm-up.
- Using the wrong oil specification (always select oil that meets KTM's standards).
Final Thoughts
Changing the oil on your 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F is straightforward with the right tools and careful attention to detail. Make oil changes part of your regular maintenance routine for maximum engine life and reliability.
Always consult your owner's manual for exact specifications, and if in doubt, visit MotoSport.com for OEM parts, oil filters, and expert assistance tailored for your KTM.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Motor Oil for a 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F Dirt Bike.
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Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F Dirt Bike.
Shop Tools for a 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2013 KTM 350 EXC-F 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.