Gearbox oil change

[Mouse]

I'm doing some "pre service" work on my 1200, and I thought it would be a good idea to change the gearbox oil - although I'm not actually sure if this is in the service schedule.

I've never owned a bike with a separate gearbox before. Could anyone post a pic (or a description) of where to find the gearbox drain plug and filler? Also is there anything special I need to know or is it just a case of drain then refill?

Finally - any recomendations as to what oil to use? I was going to get a quality branded synthetic oil, I haven't really had any problems with the box but I figure it can't hurt.

 

[TheJoker]

I'm doing some "pre service" work on my 1200, and I thought it would be a good idea to change the gearbox oil - although I'm not actually sure if this is in the service schedule.

I've never owned a bike with a separate gearbox before. Could anyone post a pic (or a description) of where to find the gearbox drain plug and filler? Also is there anything special I need to know or is it just a case of drain then refill?

Finally - any recomendations as to what oil to use? I was going to get a quality branded synthetic oil, I haven't really had any problems with the box but I figure it can't hurt.

If my memory serves the gearbox oil change is at 26,000 miles or something silly like that - My advise is to don't bother with it, go have a beer instead!
D

 

[John Armstrong]

On my 1150 when there was a problem with getting into 6th / dropping out, the dealer changed the oil at 6000 miles instead of the 12000 in the schedule and then there was no problems. A lot depends on how you use the gearbox I guess.

 

[gavin]

I'm going to change my gearbox oil when i've done 6,000 miles, looking at other BMW forums, Redline synthetic heavy shockproof gets a recommendation.

 

[Bert]

I'm doing some "pre service" work on my 1200, and I thought it would be a good idea to change the gearbox oil - although I'm not actually sure if this is in the service schedule.

I've never owned a bike with a separate gearbox before. Could anyone post a pic (or a description) of where to find the gearbox drain plug and filler? Also is there anything special I need to know or is it just a case of drain then refill?

Finally - any recomendations as to what oil to use? I was going to get a quality branded synthetic oil, I haven't really had any problems with the box but I figure it can't hurt.

BMW Motorad info on CD shows:
Oil capacity, gearbox to bottom edge of thread of filler screw
0.7 - 0.85 l Consumables/lubricants Castrol SAF-XO .
My mechanic tells me it doesn't need flushing until 24000 miles.

best left alone!!! and get a
the CD is useful reference tool- thought about gettingone??

 

[plasmatron]

Re: Re: Gearbox oil change

the CD is useful reference tool- thought about gettingone??

didn't know there was one, how do you go about getting this CD?

Cheers!

plasmatron

 

[gavin]

Re: Re: Re: Gearbox oil change

didn't know there was one, how do you go about getting this CD?

Cheers!

plasmatron

I got mine from Motorworks mail order.

 

[TerryM]

I'm doing some "pre service" work on my 1200, and I thought it would be a good idea to change the gearbox oil - although I'm not actually sure if this is in the service schedule.

I've never owned a bike with a separate gearbox before. Could anyone post a pic (or a description) of where to find the gearbox drain plug and filler? Also is there anything special I need to know or is it just a case of drain then refill?

Finally - any recomendations as to what oil to use? I was going to get a quality branded synthetic oil, I haven't really had any problems with the box but I figure it can't hurt.

BM service schedule says every two years using Castrol SAF XO.

The BM CD is 35 quid from your friendly dealer.

RFM, as they say.

 

[nadeem]

Mouse

Did you change the Oil in the gearbox?

Anyone got any pics showing the best way to do it?

 

[Mouse]

Yes, I did it last night in fact.

I was going to point you to the other thread on this subject in the "Technical" section but I see you've found it already

I didn't take any pics, but there's not really much to it. Loosen the drain plug, and then get a funnel underneath it. Loosen the filler plug, then fully remove drain plug with your fingers. Then remove the filler plug, and the oil will all gush out, in a lazy kind of manner

Replace the drain plug (30Nm) and then add 800ml of oil, then replace filler plug (also 30Nm)

 

[TheJoker]

Yes, I did it last night in fact.

And what did the used oil look like...? On my Husky the oil used for 4hrs or so, didn't resemble oil at all...

 

[Mouse]

It was definitely quite metallic - grey coloured with a sparkly sheen to it.

I'd expect that from a brand new box, although I'm glad I didn't leave the change until 24000 miles!

 

[TheJoker]

It was definitely quite metallic - grey coloured with a sparkly sheen to it.

I'd expect that from a brand new box, although I'm glad I didn't leave the change until 24000 miles!

Fair point! Maybe it's something one should do. How much did you have to pay for your 800ml of Castrol SAF XO ?

 

[Mouse]

Couldn't find any SAF XO so I used an equivalent Halfords oil instead. Was 8 quid for a litre. But if you read the other thread on this subject in the "Technical" forum, Dutchman posted a link to a place that sells the Castrol oil mail order.

So next time I'll buy the proper stuff.

 

[HMR]

Maintenance plans (service schedule) can be downloaded from http://www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk/gb/en/index.html

 

[birdseye]

There doesnt seem to be one for the 1200GS and its a different gearbox isnt it?

 

[KAYCEE]

Re: Re: Gearbox oil change

BM service schedule says every two years using Castrol SAF XO.

The BM CD is 35 quid from your friendly dealer.

RFM, as they say.

Asked my friendly dealer, on Friday, if I could get one and was told that they are not allowed to supply the CD. (even though it is in the accessory catalogue)

If I can get one, is it :-

1. Microsoft XP compatible?
2. Any good?