How often do you change the oil filter? Do you change it every time you change the oil? Every other oil change? I have two '08 sportsman 500's fwiw. Also, I would say we are light riders, meaning not many miles on the machines, and only a few miles driven each time we go out. TIA!

 

I change the oil each spring and for only $3.50 I change the filter to be sure everything is clean.

 

Yes you should change the filter with the oil. If you ride as stated and don't put many miles on you can get away with changing once a year. IMO I'd rather have peace of mind knowing my machine is properly maintained.

 

you can buy the filters at your local parts store, Wix # is51358

 

I change both every 500 miles...I ride a lot about 3000 miles per year..

 

I look at it this way. Change the oil but as soon as it goes thru the old filter its dirty again. Now it won't be broken down but it will be dirty. For the cost I would change the filter also. Just my $.02

 

Exactly!!

Why on earth would you NOT change it??

As a matter of fact, to my mind you would be better off only changing the filter and topping off the old oil than to change the oil and NOT the filter!!

CW

 

That's what my automotive instructor told me years back. If you could only afford one, he said your better off changing the filter over the oil. At least then the oil is getting cleaned with a new filter (though eventually the oil will break down). Me... I just change both. Only a few bucks more usually.

 

Actually there is an engineering reason to change the filter every other time. Some engine makers even tell you to do this. (Honda is one)

The filter gets more efficient at filtering (to a point) as time goes on.

Filter media is not the same size. There are big holes and small holes and very small holes. As time goes on these holes get filled up with trash which makes the filter more efficient the longer they are in service...........up until the pressure drop is so great that the by-pass kicks in.

Now, that being said, do I change my filter every other time? Nope.

Just saying how it works so I don't think your going to harm your engine either way.

 

YES.

NAPA Carrries the oil filters and they are cheaper and American made (NAPA filters are made by WIX).