How to Change the Oil in a 2018 Husqvarna FC350

Shop parts for a 2018 Husqvarna FC350 Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil in your 2018 Husqvarna FC350 is an essential part of routine maintenance to ensure peak performance and longevity of your engine. This guide, proprietary to MotoSport.com, provides a step-by-step process tailored specifically to your FC350, including unique model-specific call-outs and all the tools you'll need.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Triangle stand or lift stand
  • Drain pan
  • Socket set: 13mm (deep), 8mm
  • Half-inch wrench
  • Needle nose pliers
  • New oil filter
  • Clean rags or shop towels
  • Measuring cup
  • 1.1 quarts of 4-stroke engine oil (refer to your owner's manual for recommended type and weight)
  • Replacement crush washers (optional, but recommended)
  • Contact cleaner (optional, for cleaning parts)
  • Paper funnel

Unique FC350 Model Notes

  • The 2018 FC350 uses a dual-drain plug system and has an oil screen that should be cleaned with every oil change.
  • Be mindful of the oil capacity: 1.1 quarts. Overfilling or underfilling can affect performance and increase engine wear.
  • Always check with the service manual for bolt torque specifications and recommended oil type.
  • Some models may have a skid plate that needs partial or full removal for easier access to drain plugs and the oil screen.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Instructions

  1. Warm up the bike:
    • Start your FC350 and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. This warms the oil so it drains more completely and carries away more contaminants.
  2. Place the bike on a stand:
    • Secure the bike on a triangle or lift stand, ensuring it's stable and upright before proceeding.
  3. Prepare to drain the oil:
    • Position your drain pan beneath the engine.
    • With a half-inch wrench, remove the main drain bolt (located on the underside of the engine).
    • Next, use a deep 13mm socket to remove the secondary drain bolt.
  4. Remove and clean the oil screen:
    • Using needle nose pliers, carefully extract the oil screen located near the secondary drain bolt.
    • Wipe the oil screen clean with a shop towel or use contact cleaner. Allow it to dry completely before reinstallation.
  5. Remove the oil filter:
    • With an 8mm socket, loosen and remove the bolts on the oil filter cover.
    • Remove the old oil filter and allow any remaining oil to drain out.
  6. Tip the bike (if needed):
    • If you want to ensure complete drainage, carefully lay the bike over slightly on its side. Use caution to prevent tipping or injuring yourself or the bike.
  7. Reinstall the oil screen and drain bolts:
    • Reinstall the clean oil screen.
    • Inspect and (optionally) replace the crush washers on the drain bolts to prevent leaks.
    • Install and hand-tighten the drain bolts. Finish tightening to the manufacturer's specified torque. Overtightening can damage threads or the crankcase.
  8. Install the new oil filter:
    • Lightly oil the new filter (if required) and install it into the engine.
    • Reinstall and snug down the filter cover bolts, again referencing your manual for proper torque.
  9. Refill with oil:
    • Return the bike to a level, upright position on the stand.
    • Remove the oil fill cap.
    • Using a funnel, fill the engine with 1.1 quarts of the recommended oil.
    • Reinstall the oil fill cap and wipe away any oil spills.
  10. Check the oil level:
    • Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds, then power off.
    • With the bike upright and level, check the oil level. Adjust as needed to reach the proper mark.
  11. Inspect for leaks:
    • Check all drain bolts and the oil filter area for leaks after the first test run.
  12. Dispose of used oil and filter:
    • Dispose of oil and the old filter according to your local environmental regulations.

Maintenance Schedule Call-Outs

  • For the 2018 FC350, it's recommended to change the oil every 15 hours of riding–more frequently if you race or ride in severe conditions.

MotoSport.com Pro Tips and Reminders

  • Keep a maintenance log: Track every oil change with date, hours run, and type/amount of oil used.
  • Check for metal flakes: Inspect drained oil and the magnetic drain plug for metal debris, which can indicate internal wear or damage.
  • Always double-check torque specs in your owner's manual to prevent over-tightening.

Regular oil changes help your FC350 perform at its best, whether you're carving up the motocross track or hitting the trails. MotoSport.com has all the factory replacement filters, oil, and parts you need to keep your Husqvarna running strong.

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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.