How to Change the Oil in a 2020 Husqvarna FE450HQ

Shop parts for a 2020 Husqvarna FE450HQ Dirt Bike.

Keeping your 2020 Husqvarna FE450HQ running strong is all about regular maintenance, and nothing is as crucial—or as straightforward—as a routine oil change. This step-by-step MotoSport.com guide walks you through every aspect of changing your oil, including model-specific callouts, required tools, and best practices for Husqvarna’s 450cc class dirt bikes.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Socket wrench set (with appropriate sizes for drain bolt and filter cover, usually 8mm, 13mm, and 17mm)
  • Oil filter (OEM Husqvarna or high-quality aftermarket replacement)
  • New crush washer (for the drain bolt)
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Cleaning supplies (shop towels, contact cleaner)
  • Engine oil (Factory spec: Motorex SAE 10W-50 synthetic, but verify in your owner’s manual)
  • Torque wrench (recommended for accurate reassembly)
  • Gloves (optional, for a cleaner job)

Prepping Your Bike

  • Warm up your engine for 2-3 minutes. This thins the oil so it drains out completely and brings debris into suspension.
  • Turn off the engine and place the bike on a stand, ensuring it’s stable and upright.
  • Remove the skid plate if equipped, as it provides access to the drain bolt and reduces mess.
    Tip: Some aftermarket skid plates may have oil drain holes, but removal gives better access for cleaning and prevents oil from pooling on the plate itself.

Draining the Oil

  • Locate the main drain bolt on the bottom of the engine.
  • Place the drain pan under the bolt and carefully loosen it. Allow the oil to drain completely.
  • Inspect the crush washer on the drain bolt. Always replace it to help prevent leaks.
  • If your FE450HQ includes separate mesh oil screens (common on these models), remove them and clean off any debris or metal filings. This is a key step in maintaining engine integrity.
    Model-Specific Callout: Husqvarna’s 450 engines use two mesh oil screens–one long, one short–located near the drain plug and on the opposite side of the case. Removing and cleaning these is crucial for full oil system maintenance.
  • Let the oil drip until it’s down to a slow drip, ensuring old oil and contaminants are removed from the system.

Oil Filter Removal and Replacement

  • Use the wrench to remove the oil filter cover (usually attached with three bolts). Set the bolts aside; they may be different lengths, so note their positions.
  • Remove the old oil filter and dispose of it properly.
  • Clean the filter cover and the seating surface on the engine case for a solid seal.
  • Before installing the new filter, prime it by dipping it in fresh oil so you don’t starve the bearings on initial startup.
    Priming the filter ensures the lubrication system fills immediately on startup and is a recommended technique for these engines.
  • Check and lightly coat the cover’s rubber O-ring with oil to ensure a proper seal and prevent sticking next time you remove the cover.
  • Insert the new filter, reattach the cover with bolts, and torque to spec. Be gentle—over-tightening can crack the cover or plate.

Reinstall Oil Drain Bolt and Screens

  • Reinstall the cleaned mesh oil screens in their original places.
  • Thread in the new crush washer and drain bolt by hand, then tighten with the wrench to the manufacturer’s torque specification (check your owner’s manual, but typically around 15-17 Nm).

Refilling with Oil

  • Remove the oil fill cap.
  • Place a funnel in the hole and slowly add fresh SAE 10W-50 oil. For the 2020 FE450HQ, the standard capacity is 1200 milliliters (1.2L), but verify with your manual before filling.
    Do not exceed the recommended level–overfilling can cause excess crankcase pressure and leaks.
  • Reinstall and tighten the oil fill cap.

Final Steps and Checks

  • Wipe down any spills on the engine and surrounding area with contact cleaner and a rag.
  • Start the engine and let it idle for about 3 minutes. This circulates the oil and fills the new filter.
  • Turn off the engine. Let the bike sit for another 3-5 minutes so the oil can settle.
  • Check the oil level using the sight glass or dipstick (as equipped). On the FE450HQ, the oil should be between 1/2 and 3/4 up the sight window when on level ground.
    If it’s low, add oil a little at a time until the correct level is reached–do not overfill.
  • Reinstall the skid plate and any bodywork you removed.
  • Double-check all bolts for tightness and wipe away any residue around the work area.

Model-Specific Tips for the 2020 FE450HQ

  • Change oil after the first hour of use, then every 15 hours or after every race for best engine health.
    More frequent changes are suggested for hard riding, trails, or extreme clutch use.
  • Always clean both mesh oil screens. Failing to clean screens can result in bearing or engine damage due to recirculating debris.
  • Use only high-quality synthetic oil that meets manufacturer specs to ensure clutch compatibility and optimal performance.
  • Check for debris or metal flakes in the old oil and filter, which can indicate early issues inside the engine. If significant particles appear, investigate further.

Conclusion

With the right tools, high-quality oil and filter, and attention to detail, changing the oil in your 2020 Husqvarna FE450HQ is a quick job with big rewards for bike longevity and performance. Stay on schedule—and enjoy the ride.

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Shop Oil Fillers and Drain Plugs for a 2020 Husqvarna FE450HQ 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.