Oil Consumption
 

Looking for any information on engine oil consumption for the LC4 engine. Just getting ready for big trip to Cape Town and the engine oil level has dropped a little in the sight glass after +300 miles from the mid way point. Now on the minimum level. Is this usual or could this be the first signs of a possible worn oil ring?

No external leaks from the engine, the odo has 5K miles.

Any thoughts or info appreciated.

Andrew

Hi,
I had exactly the same problem on my 640 Adventure when I bought it. It was 2nd hand, but with only 800 miles and had just had it's 'running in' service. It would use a 'noticable' (in terms of the sight glass level) amount of oil after 150 miles. Anyway, I hunted around the manual and it mentioned in there to be careful of the oil viscosity (the engine needs 10w50 rather that the more common 10w40) or else it can use oil. So, I checked the receipt for the running in service and they'd put 10w40 in. I changed this for 10w50 and it hasn't used a drop in the last 1000 miles.

Hope this helps,

Cheers (and Happy New Year) - Andy B

As long as the oil level is in the sight window you should be o.k. The LC 4 sort of self regulates its oil level by blowing oil into the airbox thru the vent tube if it's just a little overfull. If you experience a sudden oil loss with no trace just pull the airbox cover off and chances are you'll find your missing oil in the bottom of the box. To drain, there is a plug on the drive chain side that when removed allows airbox oil to drip on and lube the chain, almost like it's by design.

David.