How to Change the Oil in a 2019 Sherco 450 SEF-R

Shop parts for a 2019 Sherco 450 SEF-R Dirt Bike.

MotoSport.com presents a complete, proprietary guide to safely and thoroughly changing the engine oil on your 2019 Sherco 450 SEF-R. This dirt bike’s high-performance four-stroke engine relies on regular, meticulous maintenance. Proper oil changes are essential to engine longevity & peak performance.

Tools & Supplies Needed

  • 17mm socket (for main drain bolt)
  • 8mm socket (for secondary drain bolt, if present)
  • 4mm Allen wrench (to remove oil filter cover)
  • Ratchet or wrench
  • Oil catch pan
  • Clean funnel
  • Shop towels or rags
  • New oil filter
  • Recommended engine oil (consult your owner’s manual for grade and quantity–typically synthetic 4T motorcycle oil)
  • New crush washer(s) (aluminum; replace each time during high-frequency maintenance)
  • Torque wrench (recommended for proper specs)
  • Safety gloves (optional, for hot oil protection)

Preparation Steps

  • Start your bike and let it run for 2-3 minutes to warm up the oil. This helps it drain more completely and removes contaminants.
  • Place your bike on a stable stand, keeping it upright and level for accurate drainage.
  • Ensure you are working in a clean, dust-free environment.
  • Turn the ignition off and let the bike cool slightly if the engine is very hot.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Process

  1. Locate and Remove the Drain Bolts
    • Underneath the engine you’ll find two drain bolts on the sump: a main 17mm bolt and a secondary 8mm bolt. Both must be removed for a full drain.
    • Use your sockets to loosen each bolt. Hold the oil catch pan directly underneath before removing the bolts completely.
    • Allow the oil to drain fully. Remove the old crush washers from both bolts; new ones prevent leaks and should be used every time.
  2. Clean & Inspect the Bolts
    • Wipe off each drain bolt with a shop towel. The main drain plug is magnetic—clean off any collected metal particles.
    • Inspect for stripped threads or other damage.
  3. Replace the Crush Washers
    • Install a fresh aluminum crush washer on each cleaned bolt.
    • Reinstall the bolts and tighten to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the case threads. Typical spec is 20 Nm, but verify from your manual.
  4. Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
    • Using the 4mm Allen wrench, remove the oil filter cover located on the right engine side.
    • Carefully extract the old oil filter, allowing any excess oil to drain. Wipe the filter housing clean.
    • Install the new oil filter (make sure to orient it correctly according to the manual; rubber side in).
    • Replace the oil filter cover and tighten the bolts evenly to the proper torque specification.
  5. Add New Oil
    • Open the oil fill cap–note that on the 450 SEF-R, the fill port sits just under the exhaust, making a funnel helpful to prevent spills. Add the recommended volume and type of 4T engine oil (usually about 1.2–1.4L; check your user manual).
    • Pour slowly, checking the oil sight glass (if present) or dipstick. Overfilling can cause leaks or engine damage.
    • Reinstall the oil fill cap securely.
  6. Start and Inspect
    • Start the engine and let it idle for 2-3 minutes. Watch for leaks at the drain bolts and oil filter cover.
    • Turn the bike off and, after a minute, re-check oil level. Top off if necessary.
  7. Clean Up & Final Checks
    • Wipe away any oil drips or residue from the engine.
    • Dispose of used oil and filter at a recycling center. Do not throw old oil in the trash or sewer.
    • Double-check that all bolts and caps are snug and no tools are left behind.

Sherco 450 SEF-R Specific Call-outs

  • Two drain bolts on the sump must both be removed for a full oil change. Neglecting the secondary (smaller) bolt will not drain all used oil. This differs from some competitors’ engines.
  • The oil filter cover can be snugly located near the exhaust header. Allow the engine to cool slightly before reaching in.
  • Aluminum crush washers are used for the drain bolts. Some riders reuse these, but for best results and to prevent leaks, replace them at every oil change.
  • Oil fill port is partially obscured by exhaust on this model, so a funnel with a flexible spout is especially helpful.
  • Always use oil and filters that meet the manufacturer’s performance standards, especially for high-revving enduro use.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often should I change my Sherco 450 SEF-R oil? For hard enduro or racing, every 10-15 hours. For casual trail use, every 20-30 hours. Always check oil quality and level before each ride.
  • Can I over-tighten the drain bolts? Avoid over-tightening to prevent stripping the aluminum threads. Use a torque wrench for the specified value.
  • What oil is best? A high-quality synthetic 10W-50 or oil meeting Sherco specs — consult your user manual for specifics.

Proper oil changes preserve your investment and keep your 2019 Sherco 450 SEF-R running strong across every adventure. For all OEM parts, filters, and oil recommendations, shop with MotoSport.com—your source for genuine dirt bike maintenance products.

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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.