Let’s be honest. That Can-Am DS 90 isn’t just a machine; it’s a ticket to freedom for a young rider. It’s the source of dusty smiles and epic backyard adventures. But keeping those good times rolling means taking care of the small stuff, and one of the most critical, yet often overlooked, maintenance tasks is changing the can am ds 90 gear oil.
You’ve probably wondered if it’s really that important, or maybe you’ve heard a slight whine from the gearbox and thought, “I should probably look into that.” We agree. That small task is the difference between a reliable ATV and an expensive repair bill.
We promise this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll show you exactly how to change the gear oil, why it’s crucial for the life of your little quad, and what common problems to avoid. You’ll get a clear, step-by-step process that will leave you feeling confident and save you a trip to the dealer.
Why Changing Your Can-Am DS 90 Gear Oil is Non-Negotiable
Think of gear oil as the lifeblood of your ATV’s transmission and final drive. It’s not just a lubricant; it’s a complex fluid that cools, cleans, and protects the hardworking metal components inside the gearbox. Ignoring it is a recipe for disaster.
Preventing Premature Wear and Tear
Inside that gearbox, gears are constantly meshing under intense pressure and heat. The gear oil creates a microscopic, high-pressure film between the teeth, preventing direct metal-on-metal contact. Over time, this oil breaks down and gets contaminated with tiny metal shavings.
When the oil is old and dirty, that protective film weakens. This leads to accelerated wear, which can cause sloppy shifting, loud noises, and eventually, catastrophic failure. This is one of the key benefits of can am ds 90 gear oil changes: you’re actively extending the life of your machine’s most vital parts.
Ensuring Smooth, Reliable Shifting
Ever notice the ATV struggling to engage a gear or feeling a bit “notchy”? Old, sludgy gear oil is often the culprit. Fresh oil allows the internal components to move freely and smoothly, ensuring crisp, predictable performance every time your young rider heads out.
A smooth-shifting ATV is a safer and more enjoyable ATV. It gives the rider confidence and control, which is exactly what you want.
The Cost of Neglect: What Happens If You Don’t Change It?
Skipping a $15 gear oil change can lead to a $500+ repair. If the gears are starved of proper lubrication, they can overheat, warp, or even shatter. This kind of damage often requires a complete gearbox rebuild—a complex and costly job.
Regular maintenance is the cheapest insurance you can buy for any off-road vehicle.
Choosing the Right Gear Oil for Your Can-Am DS 90
Walking into an auto parts store can be overwhelming. You’ll see shelves of different bottles with confusing numbers and labels. Don’t worry, we’ll cut through the noise. For the DS 90, the choice is actually quite simple.
Understanding Viscosity: What Does 80W-90 Mean?
Your Can-Am DS 90 owner’s manual specifies an API GL-5 rated 80W-90 hypoid gear oil. Let’s break that down:
- 80W: This indicates the oil’s viscosity (or thickness) in cold temperatures. The “W” stands for “Winter.” A lower number means it flows better when cold, protecting the gears on startup.
- 90: This is the oil’s viscosity at normal operating temperatures. It’s thick enough to provide that crucial protective film under heat and load.
- API GL-5: This is a performance standard from the American Petroleum Institute. GL-5 oils are designed for the extreme pressures found in hypoid gear systems like the one in your DS 90. Using anything less than a GL-5 rated oil is asking for trouble.
Synthetic vs. Conventional: Making the Smart Choice
You’ll see both conventional (mineral-based) and synthetic 80W-90 oils. While a conventional GL-5 oil will meet the minimum requirement, we at FatBoysOffroad strongly recommend a full synthetic option.
Synthetic oil offers superior thermal stability (it doesn’t break down as easily under heat) and provides better protection over a longer period. For the small extra cost, the peace of mind is well worth it.
A Note on Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Can-Am DS 90 Gear Oil Options
The world of lubricants is evolving. Some brands now offer biodegradable or eco-friendly can am ds 90 gear oil options. While these can be great, always ensure they explicitly meet the API GL-5 specification. Your primary goal is protecting the machine; environmental benefits are a welcome bonus if the performance standard is met.
Tools and Supplies: Your Pre-Flight Checklist
Having everything ready before you start makes the job quick and painless. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple can am ds 90 gear oil guide:
- Safety Gear: Nitrile gloves and safety glasses are a must.
- Wrenches/Sockets: You will typically need a 17mm socket or wrench for the fill and drain plugs. Always double-check your specific model.
- Drain Pan: Any low-profile oil drain pan will work.
- Funnel: A small, clean funnel is essential for refilling without making a mess.
- Gear Oil: One quart (or 1-liter bottle) of API GL-5 80W-90 hypoid gear oil (synthetic is recommended). The DS 90 doesn’t need much, so you’ll have plenty left over.
- Shop Rags or Paper Towels: For cleanup.
- Torque Wrench (Recommended): To ensure you don’t over-tighten the plugs.
How to Change Your Can-Am DS 90 Gear Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. This process is straightforward and should take less than 30 minutes. Following this how to can am ds 90 gear oil process will ensure a perfect result.
Step 1: Prep and Safety First
Park the ATV on a level surface. If you’ve just been riding, let it cool down for about 15-20 minutes. The oil will drain better when slightly warm, but you don’t want it scalding hot. Put on your gloves and glasses.
Step 2: Locate and Loosen the Plugs
On the rear of the ATV, you’ll find the final drive housing (the “pumpkin”). There are two plugs: a fill plug on the side and a drain plug at the bottom. Pro Tip: Always loosen the fill plug FIRST. You don’t want to drain all the oil only to find out your fill plug is seized and you can’t get new oil in.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
Position your drain pan directly under the drain plug. Carefully remove the plug and let the old oil drain completely. It might come out slowly, so be patient.
Step 4: Inspect and Clean
While it’s draining, inspect the old oil. Is it dark? That’s normal. Is it milky or creamy? That’s a sign of water contamination, and you should inspect your seals. Also, check the drain plug—many have a small magnet on the end. A fine, metallic paste is normal wear. Large chunks or slivers are a bad sign and warrant a closer inspection by a pro.
Wipe the drain plug clean and clean the area around the drain hole on the housing. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it until it’s snug. The factory torque spec is typically around 15 ft-lbs. Do not overtighten! These are often aluminum housings and can strip easily.
Step 5: Refill with Fresh Gear Oil
Place your funnel into the fill hole. The Can-Am DS 90 gear oil capacity is very small—only about 2.5 ounces (75 ml). Slowly add the fresh 80W-90 oil until it starts to seep back out of the fill hole. The correct level is right at the bottom edge of the threads.
Step 6: Final Checks and Cleanup
Once the oil is at the correct level, reinstall the fill plug and tighten it snugly. Wipe away any spilled oil from the housing and surrounding area. Properly dispose of your used oil and rags at a local auto parts store or recycling center.
Common Problems and Can-Am DS 90 Gear Oil Tips
Even simple jobs can have hiccups. Here are some common problems with can am ds 90 gear oil changes and how to handle them.
Stripped Drain Plugs: The DIYer’s Nightmare
This usually happens from overtightening. If the threads are damaged, you may need a thread repair kit (like a Heli-Coil) or, in a worst-case scenario, a new housing. This is why using a torque wrench and a gentle hand is so important.
Milky or Foamy Oil: What It Means
Milky oil is a clear sign that water has gotten into the gearbox, usually from deep water crossings or pressure washing too close to the seals. If you see this, you may need to replace the axle seals to prevent future contamination.
Overfilling vs. Underfilling: Finding the Sweet Spot
Underfilling starves the gears of lubrication, which is catastrophic. Overfilling can blow out seals due to excess pressure. The “fill until it trickles out the fill hole” method is foolproof and ensures the perfect level every time.
Best Practices for Your Can-Am DS 90 Gear Oil Care Guide
Proper maintenance is a habit, not a one-time event. Following these can am ds 90 gear oil best practices will keep that little quad running strong for years.
Establishing a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Check your owner’s manual for the specific service interval. Generally, it’s a good idea to change the gear oil at least once a season or every 25-30 hours of riding, whichever comes first. If you ride in very wet or muddy conditions, change it more frequently.
Pre-Ride and Post-Ride Inspections
Make it a habit to quickly glance at the final drive housing before and after a ride. Look for any signs of leaks around the plugs or axle seals. A small drip can turn into a big problem if ignored.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am DS 90 Gear Oil
How often should I change the gear oil in a Can-Am DS 90?
The recommended interval is typically once a year or every 25-30 riding hours. However, if the ATV is frequently ridden through water or mud, you should change it more often—perhaps twice a season—to prevent damage from contamination.
What is the Can-Am DS 90 gear oil capacity?
The capacity is very small, approximately 2.5 ounces or 75 milliliters. The correct way to fill it is to add oil until it is level with the bottom of the fill plug hole.
Can I use car gear oil in my DS 90?
Yes, as long as it meets the correct specifications. You must use a hypoid gear oil that is API GL-5 rated with an 80W-90 viscosity. Many high-quality automotive gear oils meet this standard.
What are the signs of low or bad gear oil?
Signs include a whining or grinding noise from the rear of the ATV, difficulty shifting, a noticeable leak around the final drive housing, or milky-looking fluid on the dipstick or during a change. If you notice any of these, check your oil level immediately.
Taking a few minutes to perform this simple service is one of the best investments you can make in your young rider’s machine. It builds good maintenance habits, ensures the ATV is safe and reliable, and keeps the focus where it should be: on the fun of the ride.
Now you have the knowledge and the confidence to get it done right. Grab your tools, get out in the garage, and keep that DS 90 ready for its next adventure. Stay safe and happy wrenching!
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