How to Change the Oil in a 2020 Husqvarna FE501HQ

Shop parts for a 2020 Husqvarna FE501HQ Dirt Bike.

Changing the oil in your 2020 Husqvarna FE501HQ is one of the most essential maintenance tasks to keep your dirt bike running at its best. Regular oil changes boost engine longevity, maximize performance, and protect internal components from premature wear. Below, you’ll find a robust, proprietary guide featuring the tools you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and specific call-outs every FE501HQ owner should know. This guide is provided exclusively for MotoSport.com customers.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • 10mm, 13mm, and 8mm sockets or wrenches
  • Torque wrench
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • New oil filter (recommended: factory spec filter)
  • New engine oil (Motorex SAE 10W-50 or equivalent, 1.3L required for FE501HQ)
  • Shop rags or towels
  • Contact cleaner or brake cleaner (for areas around the drain bolts)
  • Gloves and safety glasses

Before You Begin: Specific Call-Outs

  • Always use the recommended oil weight: 10W-50 as specified by Husqvarna for your 2020 FE501HQ.
  • Drain oil with the engine warm: Warming up the engine (about 3-5 minutes) ensures the oil drains thoroughly and any contaminants are suspended in the oil. Do not change the oil when the engine is hot to avoid burns.
  • Your bike uses 1.3 liters (about 1.4 quarts) of oil per change. Overfilling causes crankcase pressure and leaks.
  • Check for two drain bolts: One main drain and one filter bolt for proper drainage on this engine design.
  • Inspect washers and O-rings: Replace copper crush washers to avoid leaks and always lubricate new filter O-rings before installation

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Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. Warm the Engine
    • Start your FE501HQ and let it idle for 3-5 minutes to heat the oil. This makes the oil more viscous so it drains thoroughly.
    • Turn off the engine and place your bike securely on a stand.
  2. Remove the Skid Plate (if equipped)
    • Using the appropriate socket, remove the skid plate to access the drain plug and oil filter housing.
  3. Clean Around Drain Bolts
    • Spray contact cleaner around both drain bolts and the oil filter cover to prevent dirt from contaminating the engine when removed.
  4. Drain the Oil
    • Position your drain pan beneath the engine.
    • Remove the main drain bolt first (13mm) and allow the oil to fully drain.
    • Remove the oil filter drain bolts (one long, one short) with the correct socket size (typically 8mm or 10mm) to ensure all oil drains from the filter cavity.
    • Inspect and, if needed, replace any sealing washers.
  5. Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
    • Using an 8mm or 10mm socket, remove the oil filter cover.
    • Take out the old oil filter. Clean out the oil filter cavity with a clean shop rag.
    • Lightly lubricate the new oil filter’s O-ring with fresh oil, then install the new filter into the cavity.
    • Pro tip for FE501HQ: Fill the oil filter housing about 1/3 of the way with fresh oil before installing the filter. This helps pre-charge the cavity for quicker oil pressure generation at startup. Do not overfill—excess oil will spill out when the cover is installed.
  6. Reinstall Filter Cover and Drain Bolts
    • Replace the oil filter cover and bolts. Hand-tighten first, then torque to 7 ft-lbs (9.5 Nm) per Husqvarna spec once the bike is upright.
    • Clean and inspect both drain bolt threads before reinstalling. Install new crush washers if available.
    • Tighten the drain bolts to the manufacturer’s torque settings (typically 13–15 ft-lbs for main drain, confirm in your service manual).
  7. Add Fresh Oil
    • With a funnel, pour in 1.3 liters (1.4 quarts) of 10W-50 oil through the oil filler cap.
    • Do not overfill. Double-check the correct amount by referencing the oil sight glass or dipstick as appropriate.
  8. Check For Leaks
    • Wipe all areas clean with a shop rag. Inspect the base of the engine and oil filter cover for any drips or seepage.
    • Start the engine and idle for 30 seconds, then switch off and re-check for leaks.
  9. Check Oil Level and Reinstall Skid Plate
    • With the bike on level ground, check the oil level with the sight glass or dipstick. Add oil if necessary.
    • Secure the skid plate back onto the chassis.
    • Dispose of the old oil and filter according to local environmental regulations.

2020 FE501HQ Owner Call-Outs

  • Be mindful of torque specs: Over-tightening bolts, especially the filter cover, can strip the soft aluminum threads in the case.
  • Oils labeled as “Energy Conserving” are best avoided—stick with motorcycle-specific, high-performance 10W-50 oil.
  • If you ride in extreme conditions (mud, sand, racing): Change oil and filter more frequently for optimum engine health.

Keeping up with regular oil changes on your 2020 Husqvarna FE501HQ is key to worry-free riding and the long-term health of your bike. For all your genuine parts, filters, Motorex oil, and service needs, MotoSport.com is your trusted motocross partner—every ride, every time.

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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.