I changed the transmission fluid as well as the front and rear differential fluids yesterday.The bike has 97 hrs and 1500 km on it. This is actually the second time these fluids have been changed, with the first at 50 hrs and 750 kms (done at the dealer). I noticed the tranny fluid was quite milky in colour. What causes this? Is this something that I should be nervous of. Should I change the fluids more often or is it just overkill. I also noticed that it took more than the recommended amount of fluid to top up the front and the rear differentials. The manual says it should take 150 ml and I had to put in over 200 ml. I just added fluid until it started to come out the fill holes. Isd this correct? I'm just trying to learn the basic maintenance items on the bike for my own knowledge. Thanks for your help.

 

If your fluid was 'milky' looking, do you mean white? If so it probably got contaminated with water.

Yes you fill until it comes out of the hole, even though the amount is usually pretty close in the books, but not exact. I always change fluids more often than the specifications in the book, that way I know I got fresh fluids when I need it. Its like my Ford F250 Powerstroke diesel, the book recommends changing the 15 quarts of oil in the motor every 5000 miles, I still change it at 3000.

 

Yes the fluid was quite white in colour. How would the tranny fluid become contaminated with water? Is there a seal that can go bad? Is there a way to prevent this from happening or will this happen due to normal usage? Thanks for the answer concerning the amount of fluid that goes into the differentials, that really helps.

 

I read your post too quick.....

On the front and rear differential, you fill to the bottom of the hole, on the tranny you add the amount listed in your manual. On my '05 700 EFI the tranny takes 15 oz (450ml). Fill the tranny with the recommended amount. And as I said, use the correct fluid for all area's, tranny, front diff., and rear diff and fill the front and rear until it comes out the hole, the tranny only put the amount listed....

as far as the milky color, you probably got water in the tranny somewhere. There are seals all over it, but you will usually see a leak from the machine. If you submerge in water alot, it can get in. If you don't get in water much, I suggest you keep an eye on it and change at regular intervals. Can't hurt to change too often....

 

Depending how much water was actually in the tranny, it could have been condensation too.

 

Thanks again for the help. I think I will change the tranny fluid again to make sure that the water is completely flushed out and then keep an eye on it.