Posted by Frank on August 13, 1999 at 19:30:26:
In Reply to: No more oil leak!! Check level when hot or cold? posted by D. Vispone on August 13, 1999 at 12:48:43:
Just because the oil comes out black is not an indication that the oil is not doing it's job. Combustion gasses turn the oil naturally black or dark brown. I usually feel the oil with my fingers to see if I feel any grit or hard particles when I change it. However it is good that you are changing the oil on a scedule. I have read that it is a myth to think that if you don't put many miles on the bike you should change the oil less often. As a matter of fact, it is bad for engines to sit a long time as water vapor and combustion residue can corrode the interior of the motor. It is more important to change the oil on a time basis than a mile basis. Just as important that has been stressed many times on this site, is to make sure you keep your oil level up and don't ever let it fall below the recommended level as this will certainly (especially on the Savage) starve the cam, rocker arms and valve assembly, leading to a premature overhaul. I just went over 36.5K today and the engine is running just as strong if not better than new. (knock on wood).