How to Change the Oil in a 2016 Husqvarna TC85 — Step-by-Step Guide

Shop parts for a 2016 Husqvarna TC85 Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil regularly in your 2016 Husqvarna TC85 is essential for ensuring smooth gearbox operation and maximizing the life of your motorcycle. This high-revving two-stroke doesn't use traditional engine oil like a four-stroke, but it does require regular gear (transmission) oil changes. Here's a proprietary MotoSport.com how-to blog dedicated to walking TC85 owners through the process, including special notes unique to the 2016 model.

Tools & Supplies Needed

  • 8mm or 13mm socket or wrench (verify by inspecting your specific bike's drain plug size)
  • Torque wrench
  • Gear oil — 75W-80 or as per owner's manual (see call-outs below)
  • Measuring cup
  • Oil drain pan
  • Shop rags
  • Contact cleaner (for tidying up any spills)
  • Funnel (narrow-oblong-shaped works best for dirt bikes)
  • Gloves

Step 1: Prepare the Bike

  • Start your TC85 and let it idle for a few minutes — just enough to warm up the gearbox oil. This helps old oil drain out more completely.
  • Shut off the engine.
  • Move the bike to a level surface and use a stand to keep it upright and stable.

Step 2: Remove the Drain Plug

  • Locate the gear oil drain plug under the engine, typically on the right-hand side of the crankcase (refer to your manual for exact location).
  • Place your drain pan directly underneath the plug.
  • Using the correct socket or wrench, carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Allow all the oil to drain completely; expect around 500cc (or 0.5 liters) of oil in a TC85.
  • Inspect the drain plug for any metal shavings attached to the magnet (if equipped). Clean if necessary.

Step 3: Refit the Drain Plug

  • Once the oil has fully drained out, clean the drain plug and fit a new crush washer if specified by Husqvarna (always check your manual).
  • Thread the drain plug back in by hand to avoid cross-threading, then use your torque wrench to tighten it to the manufacturer's specification (consult your manual — overtightening can strip the aluminum).

Step 4: Add Fresh Gear Oil

  • Remove the fill/check bolt on the right engine cover (usually a large hex or flat screw near the clutch cover or above the shift lever).
  • Insert a funnel into the fill hole.
  • Slowly pour in the correct amount of specified gear oil (500cc/0.5L of 75W-80 transmission oil) — do not overfill.
  • Let the oil settle and check that it reaches the bottom edge of the fill/check hole, as described in the owner's manual and confirmed by factory guides. With the bike level, some oil should trickle from the opening when filled to the correct level.
  • Refit the fill/check bolt and gently tighten to the specified torque.

Step 5: Final Check

  • Clean off any oil residue with shop rags and contact cleaner.
  • Start the motorcycle and let it idle for a minute. Shut it off and check for leaks at the drain and fill bolts.
  • Double-check your oil level by repeating the check at the fill/check hole, especially if any oil leaks were found.

Model Specific Call-Outs for the 2016 Husqvarna TC85

  • The oil capacity is 500cc (0.5 liters) of gear oil for the TC85 — do not exceed this as overfilling can cause shifting or clutch issues.
  • The recommended oil is typically a high quality 75W-80 or 80W transmission gear oil3. Confirm the oil type and capacity using your owner's manual, as specifications may change with region and production batch.
  • Ensure all mating surfaces are clean and flat before reinstallation of drain and fill plugs, as this helps prevent leaks.
  • If your bike is raced in muddy or wet conditions, consider changing the oil more frequently to prolong clutch and gear life.
  • Always check the drain plug and fill bolt for any metal particles or sludge, as this may be an early warning of internal wear.

Quick Reference Process

  • Warm bike and shut off.
  • Drain old gear oil into pan.
  • Clean and refit drain plug (use new washer if needed).
  • Refill with 500cc of fresh gear oil through fill/check hole.
  • Confirm correct level – oil should just reach the bottom of the hole with the bike upright.
  • Reinstall fill/check screw and double check for leaks.

Your 2016 Husqvarna TC85 will reward you with smoother shifting and extended component life by keeping gear oil fresh and topped up. For genuine Husqvarna oils, tools, and OEM crush washer kits, shop MotoSport.com for a direct fit to your model.

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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.