How to Change the Oil in a 2018 Sherco 250 SEF FACTORY

Shop parts for a 2018 Sherco 250 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike.

Regular oil changes are vital for maintaining the performance and longevity of your 2018 Sherco 250 SEF FACTORY dirt bike. Below, MotoSport.com guides you step-by-step through the oil change process, highlighting key details for your specific model and important best practices for a professional, worry-free job.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • 17mm socket (for drain plug)
  • 8mm socket (for some secondary bolts and oil filter cover)
  • Torque wrench
  • Oil drain pan
  • Replacement oil filter (changed with every oil change)
  • New O-rings and crush washers (for drain and fill plugs)
  • Funnel
  • Clean rags
  • 0.9 liters SAE 10W60 4-stroke engine oil (DO NOT substitute viscosity/grade)
  • Gloves (recommended)

Steps to Change the Oil

  • Warm the Engine
    Briefly run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil. This helps the oil drain out more easily with contaminants. Turn off the engine and ensure the bike is stable on a stand.
  • Locate and Remove Drain Plugs
    Position a drain pan under the engine. The 2018 250 SEF FACTORY features two drain plugs with crush washers—one standard and one magnetic (for metallic debris monitoring). The standard drain plug is M19, and the magnetic plug is M12.
    Use a 17mm socket to carefully remove both. Allow all oil to thoroughly drain. Inspect the magnetic plug for significant metal shavings, a normal sign of engine wear, but excessive debris may suggest internal issues.
    Model-specific note: Two drain plugs are not common to all dirt bikes; this design ensures more complete oil evacuation for the Sherco SEF platform.
  • Remove and Inspect Pre-Filter/Strainer (if equipped)
    Remove the pre-filter with the appropriate tool (8mm socket may be required). Clean the mesh strainer of debris and reinstall if it's in good condition.
  • Replace Oil Filter
    Use the 8mm socket to remove the oil filter cover. Remove the old filter and install a new one, ensuring the correct orientation as indicated in your manual.
    Always install a new O-ring on the cover and lightly coat with oil to aid sealing. Sherco recommends a new filter at every oil change.
  • Replace Drain Plugs and Filters
    Clean and inspect both drain plugs and the strainer. Fit new crush washers. Torque the M19 drain plug to 22Nm and the magnetic M12 plug to 15Nm.
    Reinstall the cleaned pre-filter/strainer and torque to specification if noted.
  • Fill with Fresh Oil
    Remove the engine oil fill cap. Using a funnel, pour in 0.9 liters of SAE 10W60 4-stroke motorcycle oil.
    After filling, reinstall the cap with a new O-ring if necessary and tighten.
  • Check Oil Level
    With the bike vertical, check the sight glass or dipstick (refer to page 86 of your owner's manual for correct level). Add oil if necessary–do not overfill.
  • Inspect and Test
    Start the engine and allow it to idle for 1-2 minutes. Turn off, wait 1-2 minutes, then check the oil level again. Top off if required.
  • Dispose of Used Oil Properly
    Always dispose of old oil, the oil filter, and any contaminated materials at a proper recycling or waste facility—NEVER pour old oil down the drain or onto the ground.

Sherco-Specific Call-Outs for the 2018 250 SEF Factory

  • Dual Drain Plug System: Ensures full oil drainage but makes it essential not to overlook the secondary/magnetic plug.
  • Pre-Filter/Strainer: Clean during every oil change for optimal lubrication and engine protection.
  • Specific Oil Requirement: Only use SAE 10W60 for optimal clutch and engine performance.
  • Filter Orientation: Install the filter as shown in the service manual (refer to diagrams if needed), and always ensure seals and O-rings are fresh and correctly positioned.
  • Torque Specs: Adhering precisely to torque values (22Nm and 15Nm) prevents leaks or stripped threads.
  • Factory-Recommended Oil Change Interval: While the manual might specify up to 100 engine hours, frequent oil changes–every 15–30 hours in harsh or racing conditions–are strongly recommended by many experienced owners.

Conclusion

Changing the oil on your Sherco 250 SEF FACTORY is straightforward when you follow proper steps, use the right tools, and adhere to model-specific instructions. Doing this at recommended intervals will keep your engine running strong and extend the life of your bike. For questions on parts or oil for your Sherco, rely on MotoSport.com for expert advice and supplies needed for every ride.

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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.