How to Change the Oil in a 2021 Husqvarna FE501S – Exclusive MotoSport.com Guide

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Changing the oil in your 2021 Husqvarna FE501S is a vital maintenance task that keeps your engine running smoothly and ensures a long life for your dirt bike. This step-by-step guide covers all the specifics, tools, tips, and unique callouts you need to perform a professional oil change on your FE501S at home.

Tools and Equipment Needed

  • 8mm and 13mm sockets for 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch ratchets
  • Torque wrenches (capable of 11 ft-lb and 15 ft-lb)
  • Measuring cup (for accurate oil measurement)
  • 1.3 liters (1.37 US quarts) of SAE 10W-50 motorcycle oil (Motorex recommended)
  • New oil filter (factory or equivalent)
  • Replacement copper crush washer/gasket for the drain plug
  • Screwdriver (to help align oil screen if needed)
  • Snap ring pliers (for oil filter removal, if required)
  • Funnel
  • Printed service manual pages for reference (especially pp. 131-133)
  • Rags/towels
  • Oil drain pan
  • Safety glasses
  • Contact cleaner (optional, for cleaning mating surfaces and filter screens)

Pro tip: Having all parts and tools organized before you begin saves time and keeps the workspace safe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bike
    • Warm up the engine for a few minutes to thin the oil and suspend contaminants. Do not skip this step—it helps the oil drain more thoroughly.
    • Turn off the bike and let it cool for just a minute—oil should be warm, not hot.
    • Remove the skid plate (if equipped) to access the underside of the engine.
  2. Drain the Old Oil
    • Position your drain pan under the engine.
    • Use a 13mm socket to remove the main drain screw.
    • Allow oil to drain completely. Remove the long and short oil filter screws using the appropriate socket sizes. Be patient—let as much old oil drain as possible for a cleaner change.
  3. Clean and Inspect Components
    • Carefully remove and inspect the mesh filter screens and oil filter for debris or signs of engine wear.
    • Clean the mesh filters with a contact cleaner and inspect the copper crush washer. Replace the washer with a new one if it's deformed or cracked.
    • Wipe down the mating surfaces where the bolts and filter sit to ensure a proper seal on reassembly.
  4. Replace the Oil Filter
    • Remove the oil filter cover using the appropriate tool (snap ring pliers may help for stubborn covers).
    • Remove the old oil filter and lubricate the new filter's rubber O-ring with fresh oil.
    • Install the new oil filter and ensure it seats properly. Do not over-tighten; use hand-tightening and torque to spec (7 ft-lb for cover bolts).
  5. Reinstall Bolts and Screws
    • Replace the cleaned long and short oil filter screws and the main drain screw with a new crush washer.
    • Hand-tighten first; then use the torque wrench to finish to the manufacturer's specifications–typically 11 ft-lb for oil filter screws and 15 ft-lb for the main drain bolt.
  6. Add Fresh Oil
    • Using a funnel, pour in 1.3 liters (1.37 US quarts) of 10W-50 motorcycle oil slowly to avoid spills.
    • If you want extra protection for first startup, lay the bike gently on its left side and fill the oil filter housing cavity about 1/3 before installing the new filter. This primes the filter and prevents a dry start.
    • Reinstall the oil fill cap.
  7. Check Oil Level and Run Engine
    • Start the engine and run for 30 seconds to distribute new oil throughout the system.
    • Stop the engine, level the bike, and check the oil level in the sight glass. The oil should be at the midpoint–top off if needed.
  8. Final Checks
    • Reinstall the skid plate.
    • Check for leaks around the drain bolt, filter cover, and screws.
    • Dispose of the old oil and filter properly—never pour oil on the ground or in the trash.

Special Call-outs for the 2021 Husqvarna FE501S

  • Oil Specification: Always use SAE 10W-50 full synthetic motorcycle oil (Motorex recommended by Husqvarna).
  • Oil Capacity: 1.3 liters/1.37 US quarts. Do not overfill.
  • First Oil Change: Essential after the first hour of engine operation—early oil changes remove metals and break-in debris.
  • Tightening Bolts: Use a torque wrench. Over-tightening drain screws can strip threads in the soft aluminum case.
  • Oil Screens: Both main and mesh filter screens should be cleaned and reinstalled—this is easy to forget but crucial.
  • Filter Priming: Laying the bike on its left side and filling the filter housing before inserting the new filter minimizes dry running.
  • Mating Surface Cleanliness: Dirt or grit on these surfaces can cause leaks.
  • Maintenance Manuals: Keeping the official service manual pages for reference ensures you use the correct specs and procedures.

Conclusion

Changing your oil at the recommended intervals on the 2021 Husqvarna FE501S keeps your bike running its best on and off the trails. By following these steps and heeding the model-specific tips above, you'll get the job done like a pro—and your engine will thank you.

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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.