How to Change the Oil in a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 — A Complete MotoSport.com Guide
Shop parts for a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 Dirt Bike.
Changing the oil on your 2018 Husqvarna FX350 is crucial for the bike's performance and longevity. Below you'll find a proprietary step-by-step MotoSport.com guide specifically for this make, model, and year, including required tools, complete instructions, and important model-specific considerations.
Tools and Supplies You'll Need
- Drain pan or oil catch bucket
- Triangle or lift stand (to keep the bike upright and steady)
- 13mm deep socket (for drain plug and oil screen bolt)
- Half-inch wrench (for secondary drain bolt)
- 8mm socket (for the oil filter cover bolts)
- Needle nose pliers (for removing the oil screen)
- New oil filter (OEM or high-quality aftermarket)
- Fresh engine oil (Husqvarna recommends full synthetic 4T oil, 10W-50; 1.1 quarts for a full change)
- New crush washer (recommended for the drain plug)
- Papers towels or rags (for cleanup)
- Shop manual (for torque specs verification)
Step-by-Step: 2018 Husqvarna FX350 Oil Change
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Warm Up The Engine
- Start your FX350 and let it idle for 1–2 minutes. This thins the oil, helping it drain completely and suspending dirt within it.
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Position the Bike & Gather Materials
- Put your bike upright on a triangle or lift stand.
- Ensure all tools and your drain pan are within reach.
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Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped)
- If you have a skid plate, remove the relevant mounting bolts with an 8mm socket or Torx T30 driver to access the drain bolts and oil filter. Many aftermarket skid plates have cut-outs but confirm access first.
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Unbolt the Main Oil Drain & Oil Screen
- With a 13mm deep socket, remove the main drain bolt on the engine's left side, positioned just below the shifter lever.
- Allow most oil to drain fully.
- Locate the oil screen's bolt (also 13mm). Unscrew and use needle nose pliers to gently withdraw the screen. Set it on a clean towel for inspection and cleaning.
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Remove the Secondary Drain Bolt
- Switch to your half-inch wrench and find the secondary (smaller) drain bolt. Remove this and allow any additional oil to flow out.
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Clean and Inspect Oil Screen & Bolts
- Examine the oil screen for debris or signs of abnormal wear. Clean using contact cleaner or fresh oil, and ensure all mating surfaces on the drain bolts are free of old oil or gasket material.
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Reinstall Oil Screen and Drain Bolts
- Refit the cleaned oil screen and torque its bolt to factory specification (check in your FX350 manual).
- Install both drain bolts, ensuring you use a new crush washer to prevent leaks.
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Change the Oil Filter
- Using an 8mm socket, remove the bolts securing the oil filter cover, usually located low on the right side of the engine case.
- Carefully remove the old filter, noting orientation.
- Lightly oil the new filter and install it, aligning it as the old one was.
- Reattach the cover and tighten the bolts evenly to prevent warping.
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Refill With New Oil
- Stand the bike upright.
- Remove the oil fill cap (top of engine case, right side) and insert a funnel.
- Pour in exactly 1.1 quarts (1.04 liters) of 10W-50 full synthetic oil. Husqvarna recommends Motorex or Motul 7100 4T for best performance.
- Reinstall the oil cap.
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Start and Circulate Oil
- Start the engine and let it idle for 60 seconds. Check for leaks around drain bolts and filter cover.
- Shut off, allow the bike to settle for a few minutes, then check oil level per the sight glass or dipstick. Top off as needed (don't overfill).
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Final Steps
- Reinstall the skid plate (if removed).
- Wipe away any spilled oil with rags.
- Properly dispose of used oil and filter at a recycling center.
FX350 Model-Specific Call-outs
- Oil Capacity: The 2018 Husqvarna FX350 requires 1.1 quarts (1.04 L) of oil for a full change — more than some smaller-displacement 4-strokes. Always verify against your owner's manual in case of variances.
- Drain Plug Placement: The main drain bolt and oil screen are easily accessed with the bike on the left side. Unlike some other brands, you do not need to remove the exhaust or plastic panels.
- Oil Filter Access: The FX350's filter is mounted on the lower right. Removing the skid plate may be necessary for some aftermarket models.
- Torque Specs: It is recommended to verify torque specs for your drain bolts and filter cover in the Husqvarna shop manual for optimal sealing and to avoid stripping threads.
- Service Interval: Husqvarna suggests changing the oil every 15 engine hours for most conditions. Racers often change more frequently.
Tips and Best Practices
- Always change the oil filter when you change your oil for optimum engine longevity.
- Start with a completely cold engine or, at most, slightly warmed — never hot to avoid burns.
- Use nitrile gloves to avoid skin contact with used oil.
- Document each oil change and keep receipts for warranty purposes.
MotoSport.com carries all lubricant, filter, and tool kits you need to perform this job right every time.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Motor Oil for a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Filters for a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Drain Pans for a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Tools for a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 Dirt Bike.
Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2018 Husqvarna FX350 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.