I am getting a used 400ex this weekend and have a few questions (it is a 2001 with VERY few hours on it).

1)What is the "best" or recommened oil to use in it and how much.

2)How/where do I add the oil

3)What is the factory sparkplug (NGK???)

4)What is the recommended tire pressure for factory tires.

I want to run out and get all the need eqpt. before I pick it up so I can change the fluids and be out riding in no time.
Thanks!

 

1. Most people use either synthetic/regular in the 10w40 to 20w50 range 2 quarts

2.The drain plug is under the oil tank under in front of the engine and the oil is added to the tank also with the dipstick resting on the threads (not screwed in and after the bike has Idled about 5 minutes) there is also a engine drain plug on the left side behind the gearshift.

3.I can't remember the Plug # at the moment but when ya go to the Honda shop to get the filter they will know.

4.The tire pressure is 4 psi front and 4 psi rear.

5.Don't tighten the drain plug to tight when putting it back in some people have had problems with the neck breaking off.

 

the plug is a ngk dpr8z

 

ngk dpr8z is the standard plug

i use mobil 1 tri synthetic 10w40

it takes 1.95 quarts

 

Mine broke off just like you said, dont get mad at someone and then change your oil, you may just be stronger than you think.

 

I highly recommend using a 20w50 oil rather than 10w40. Stays alot thicker and dosn't thin out like 10w40 does.

 

20-50 is good for 90 degree (summer riding) hot days but in Michigan a 10-30 or 10-40 synthetic is the best all season oil choice. A mobil 1 tri synthetic will stay roughly the same viscosity in all normal operating temperatures. Good luck with your new ride.

 

There is also a oil drain at the lowest point of the case, behind the shifter. I think it is a 12 Millimeter hex. You may want to heat the engine up first before drianing. Oil will flow better. Then empty the front reservoir, and replace the plug (dont overtighten.) Then put a block under the right side wheels, so the machine looks like it is doing a side wheelie, and remove the side plug. you may see up to a 1/2 quart in there as well. The more you tip it, the better drainage you get and you spill less on the frame directly below it. Its a pain if you have a skid plate under there, it collects it all. Then replace the plug carefully (no Overtightening,) and then the filter (two 8mm screws above footbrake) make sure the hole lines up on the filter with the filter cap. Then refill. You may want a long funnel for refilling, because the fill port on the reservoir is right at the fender. Pour slow.
When checking the oil later, let it run for a few minutes, (3+) then shut it down. Make certain to not "rev" the engine during the idle period. This may give you an inaccurate read on the stick. usually idling for 3-5 minutes pre-ride is my policy, and always get good read.
Well, didnt want to be this long, but good luck, and welcome to the 400 family.