Does the dipstick have to be screwed in or out to get the proper reading. I bought the quad used with no manual.

 

Take the measurement with the cap screwed all the way in.

After an oil and filter change. The machine should be filled with 1.6 quarts of fresh oil.

 

Sorry cstark, Not to undermine you But, According to the owners manual The dipstick should NOT be screwed in for an accurate reading.

 

I have the shop manual.
It says too screw it in all the way.
Engine oil:
After rebuild - 2.2 quarts
After filter change - 1.6 quarts
Oil change without filter change - 1.4 quarts

It is also a good idea too run the motor for a minute or 2 before checking the level.

No matter how you check it, it is pretty hard too screw up.....

 

Holy Sh**
I never knew

Right from the 00 300ex owners manual page 96

1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground.

2. Start the engine in a well-ventilated area and let it idle for a few minutes.

3. Stop the engine.

4. After a few minutes, remove the oil filler cap/dipstick from the right crankcase cover and wipe it clean.

5. Insert the dipstick without screwing it in, then remove the dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should be between the upper level mark and the lower level mark on the dipstick.

6. If required, add the specified oil into the filler cap hole, up to the upper level mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.

7. Reinstall the oil filler cap/dipstick

 

Take anything the Owner's Manual says with a grain of salt.
If I'm not mistaken, it says too always ride your new FourTrax on level ground.
I think the lawyers' write these things too be idiot proof. Just too cover thier butts.
Multiple steps too take a measurement would be complex, and confusing.
Screw it in, don't screw it in. Either way....If you are checking the oil, it is probaly time for a change anyway.

 

Thanks guys, I was having this debate with some of my fellow honda mates and I thought I would throw this question out there for some text book input.

 

Thanks... When all else fails, read the directions.

 

yup....don't screw it in

either way it won't cause serious harm......unless the bike is getting a real work out

either way it still sits in the normal operational range.....between both marks

wonder how many people actually don't know that.....my father parks his bikes on flat ground the night before and just unscrew the dipstick to check before next use......turns out its wrong.....and he always moans becasue the bike is always over filled......!

....ps you have to stand on your head to get it exactly right...lol