You know that feeling. The roar of that Rotax V-twin, the power under your thumb as you conquer a muddy trail or a steep incline. Your Can-Am Outlander 800 is a beast, a true partner in adventure. But even the toughest machines need care to stay in fighting shape. I’ve seen too many riders neglect the single most important maintenance task, and it costs them dearly down the road.
I promise this guide will change that for you. We’re going to walk through a complete oil change can am outlander 800 procedure, step-by-step, just like you’ve got an experienced tech right there in your garage.
In this post, you’ll learn exactly what tools you need, the correct procedure to avoid common pitfalls, how to choose the right oil, and some pro tips that will keep your Outlander’s engine running like new for years to come. Let’s get those hands dirty.
Why a Regular Oil Change is Non-Negotiable for Your Outlander 800
Skipping an oil change is like asking your engine to run a marathon on a diet of grit and grime. It’s the lifeblood of your machine. Understanding the benefits of oil change can am outlander 800 service isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about protecting your investment.
Engine Longevity and Protection
Fresh oil is clean, slippery, and full of detergents. It lubricates moving parts like the piston, crankshaft, and valvetrain, drastically reducing friction and wear. Old, broken-down oil is the opposite—it’s full of metal shavings, carbon, and dirt that act like liquid sandpaper inside your engine.
A consistent oil change schedule is the number one thing you can do to ensure your Rotax engine sees thousands of miles of trouble-free operation.
Peak Performance and Power
A well-lubricated engine runs cooler, smoother, and more efficiently. When friction is minimized, your engine doesn’t have to work as hard to produce power. You’ll feel the difference in throttle response and overall performance when your machine is running on fresh, high-quality oil.
Preventing Costly Repairs Down the Trail
Let’s be blunt: a few quarts of oil and a filter cost a tiny fraction of an engine rebuild. Sludge buildup from old oil can clog vital oil passages, starving parts of lubrication and leading to catastrophic failure. Following a proper oil change can am outlander 800 care guide is the cheapest insurance policy you can buy.
Gearing Up: Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Having the right gear ready before you start makes the whole process smooth and frustration-free. Nothing’s worse than being halfway through a job and realizing you’re missing a specific socket. Here’s your checklist.
Essential Tools for the Job
- Ratchet and Socket Set: You’ll specifically need an 8mm, 10mm, and 17mm socket.
- Torque Wrench: This is highly recommended to avoid stripping bolts. It’s a key part of doing the job right.
- Oil Filter Wrench: A cap-style or strap-style wrench will work. The Can-Am filter is in a tight spot, so a cap wrench is often easier.
- Oil Drain Pan: Get one with at least a 5-quart capacity to avoid messy spills.
- Funnel: A long, narrow funnel is best for reaching the fill hole without making a mess.
- Nitrile Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands from grime and your eyes from splashes.
- Shop Rags or Paper Towels: You will make a mess. It’s inevitable. Be prepared.
Choosing the Right Oil and Filter
This is not the place to cheap out. Your Outlander’s high-performance engine demands quality fluids.
- Engine Oil: Your Outlander 800 requires approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters) of 5W-40 synthetic motorcycle oil. The key is to use an oil rated JASO MA or JASO MA2. This rating ensures it’s safe for the wet clutch system. BRP’s XPS brand is great, but any reputable brand meeting these specs will work perfectly. Do NOT use standard car oil.
- Oil Filter: Always use a high-quality filter. OEM BRP filters are a safe bet, but brands like K&N, Hiflofiltro, or WIX also make excellent-quality replacement filters.
- Sealing Washer and O-Rings: Your new oil filter should come with two new rubber O-rings for the filter housing. You should also get a new crush/sealing washer for the drain plug. These are cheap and critical for preventing leaks.
The Complete How-To Oil Change Can-Am Outlander 800 Guide
Alright, let’s get to the main event. This detailed oil change can am outlander 800 guide will walk you through every step. Take your time, read each step before you do it, and keep things clean.
Step 1: Prep and Warm-Up
Park your Outlander on a level surface. Start the engine and let it run for 3-5 minutes. This warms the oil, making it flow out much faster and carrying more contaminants with it. Don’t get it scorching hot, just warm to the touch.
Step 2: Access the Drain Plug and Filter
You’ll likely need to remove the plastic or aluminum skid plate to get clear access. Use your 10mm socket to remove the bolts holding it in place. This will reveal the engine drain plug and the oil filter housing.
Step 3: Drain the Old Oil
Place your drain pan directly under the drain plug, which is a 17mm bolt on the bottom of the engine. Loosen the bolt with your ratchet. Be ready to unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Warning: The oil will be warm. Let the oil drain completely for at least 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Remove and Replace the Oil Filter
While the oil drains, locate the oil filter housing—it’s a round cap with three 8mm bolts. Place a rag underneath it to catch drips. Remove the three bolts and gently pull the cap off. The filter will come out with it. Pull the old filter off the cap, and then carefully remove the two old rubber O-rings from the housing cap itself. Clean the inside of the cap thoroughly.
Step 5: Install the New Filter and O-Rings
Take your new O-rings and coat them with a thin layer of fresh engine oil. This helps them seal properly and prevents pinching. Install them in the grooves on the filter cap. Press the new filter into the cap, then reinstall the cap onto the engine. Tighten the three 8mm bolts snugly and evenly. The torque spec is around 7-9 ft-lbs (10-12 Nm). Don’t overtighten them!
Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Plug
Wipe the drain plug area clean. Place the new sealing washer on the drain plug. Screw it back into the engine by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten it with your torque wrench to about 18-20 ft-lbs (25-27 Nm). Snug is good; too tight is a stripped-out nightmare.
Step 7: Refill with Fresh Oil
Remove the dipstick/fill cap. Using your funnel, slowly pour in about 1.8 quarts of your new 5W-40 synthetic oil. Don’t dump the full 2.1 quarts in at once; it’s easier to add more than to take it out.
Step 8: The “Can-Am” Oil Level Check
This is a critical step and one of the most important oil change can am outlander 800 tips. Reinstall the dipstick. Start the engine and let it run for 30 seconds. Shut it off. Wait another 30 seconds for the oil to settle. Now, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, re-insert it fully, and pull it out again to get your true reading. Add small amounts of oil as needed until the level is at the top of the cross-hatched area on the dipstick.
Step 9: Final Checks and Clean-Up
With the oil level correct, check the drain plug and filter housing for any signs of leaks. If everything is dry, reinstall your skid plate. You’re done!
Common Problems with Oil Change Can-Am Outlander 800 (And How to Avoid Them)
Even a straightforward job can have hiccups. Here are some of the most common problems with oil change can am outlander 800 service and how to steer clear of them.
Stripped Drain Plug or Filter Bolts
This is almost always caused by over-tightening. Those small aluminum threads can’t take a lot of force. The solution is simple: use a torque wrench. It takes the guesswork out and ensures every bolt is perfectly tightened.
Leaks After the Change
A dreaded drip on your garage floor. This is usually caused by one of three things: reusing the old drain plug washer, pinching one of the new filter housing O-rings during installation, or not tightening a bolt enough. Always use new seals and double-check your work.
Incorrect Oil Level Reading
If you just dump in 2.1 quarts and call it a day, you might overfill it. If you check it cold, you’ll get a false low reading. Always follow the specific Can-Am procedure: run, stop, wait, then check.
Oil Change Can-Am Outlander 800 Best Practices for Longevity
Want to be a true pro? Adopt these oil change can am outlander 800 best practices to maximize your engine’s health.
Establish a Consistent Schedule
Your owner’s manual is your bible, but a good rule of thumb for the Outlander 800 is every 50-100 hours or at least once a year, whichever comes first. If you ride in extremely dusty, wet, or muddy conditions, change it more frequently.
Always Replace Sealing Components
I can’t stress this enough. The drain plug washer and the filter housing O-rings are single-use items. A new set costs a few bucks and is the best insurance against leaks you can buy.
Keep a Maintenance Log
Jot down the date, machine hours, and what service you performed in a small notebook or a phone app. This not only helps you stay on schedule but is also a huge plus for potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Oil Change Practices
Being a responsible off-roader means protecting the trails we love. A sustainable oil change can am outlander 800 approach is easy and makes a big difference.
Proper Disposal of Used Oil and Filters
Used motor oil is toxic. Never, ever dump it on the ground or in the trash. Pour your used oil from the drain pan into an old milk jug or the empty oil containers. Most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, O’Reilly, etc.) will take your used oil and old filter for recycling, completely free of charge.
Minimizing Spills and Waste
An eco-friendly oil change can am outlander 800 starts with being prepared. Use a large drain pan, lay down some cardboard to catch any rogue drips, and keep your rags handy. A clean workspace is a safe and environmentally friendly workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander 800 Oil Change
What type of oil does a Can-Am Outlander 800 take?
It requires a 5W-40 fully synthetic motorcycle/powersports oil that is rated JASO MA or MA2. This is critical for the wet clutch. Do not use regular automotive oil, as it can cause clutch slippage and damage.
How often should I change the oil on my Outlander 800?
Consult your owner’s manual for the official interval. Generally, every 50-100 operating hours or annually is a solid plan. For severe use (deep mud, water, heavy towing), cut that interval in half.
What is the oil capacity for a Can-Am Outlander 800?
The engine holds approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters). However, you should always fill based on the reading on your dipstick, not just by pouring in a pre-measured amount.
Can I use car oil in my Can-Am Outlander?
Absolutely not. Automotive oils contain friction modifiers that will ruin the wet clutch in your Outlander’s transmission, leading to slippage and expensive repairs. Only use oil specifically designed for powersports and rated JASO MA/MA2.
My oil filter housing is leaking. What did I do wrong?
The most common culprit is a pinched or dry O-ring. When you install the O-rings on the filter cap, make sure they are well-lubricated with fresh oil and seated perfectly in their grooves before you tighten the cap down.
Congratulations! You’ve just performed one of the most vital services for your machine. You’ve saved money, learned more about your Outlander, and ensured it will be ready for your next adventure. That feeling of accomplishment is almost as good as a perfect day on the trails.
Now, clean up your tools, properly dispose of that old oil, and go plan your next ride. You’ve earned it. Stay safe out there, and we’ll see you on the trail!
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