checking oil level

[gullwingracer]

hi- as a new owner of an xr400,(year 2004) and my handbook is entirely in Italian and Spanish, how do I check oil level? ( yes I do know you remove the dipstick etc) but the question is when- ie cold, or warmed up, should it stand for a while to settle the level- sometimes it seems high on the stick, sometimes almost off the end , when is the definitive measurement to be taken? cheers g.r.

[phil w]

It has been covered on here before but I always, run engine until up to operating temp. I try now to remember to check it straight after I have been out on it for the day.
Once I return from run I leave it tickin over for 5 mins while I remove all my gubbins
Switch off and check stick.
Oil checks on an XR are a right PITA and people seem to do it different

[jasonbc]

Oil checks on an XR are a right PITA and people seem to do it different[/QUOTE]

I AGREE

I normally take mine out for a 20min blast come home and then check it. You pull the dipstick out as you shut the engine off, wipe it and put it back in instantly but do not screw it down. I never get an accurate reading when i do it how the book tells me to do it and that is:-

run the engine for 5 mins then check oil level.

To me it's not long enough for these things to put the oil around the whole system properly thats why i take it for a short ride then check it, or do as phil says check it when you get home after a ride then the next time you go out you have enough in the motor

[karlos]

This is what it says my hand book; ( xr 400 )

1. Park the motorcycle on a firm, level surface.

2. Start the engine and let it idle for 5 minutes. If the air temperature is below 10oC, let the engine idle for an additional 5 minutes ( a total 10 minutes).
An engine that is not warmed sufficiently may give an inaccurate (low) oil level reading. During idling, support the motorcycle in an upright position to assure an accurate oil level reading. Stop the engine.

3. Immediately remove the oil filler cap/ dipstick and wipe it clean.
4. Hold the motorcycle upright. Insert the dipstick until it seats, but don't screw it in.

5. Remove the dipstick. Th eoil level should be betweenthe upper and lower level marks on the dipstick.

All a bit long winded, and as phil w says, it's a PITA to do.