I only have about 3 hours on my quad now. I am not supposed to change it until 10 hours. I am certain that I will be going over 10 hours on a 3 day trip. Probably close to 20. I will be changing it at camp, but I don't think there is going to be anyplace convenient to do it.

 

Can't remember on the 850,but on all the other atvs we had first oil change at 25 hrs,owners decision after that when to change oil and filter(recommended 50 hrs,NOT 100 as some manuals say) and all fluids changed at 100 hrs,1000 miles,OR some customers just picked a certain month each year on "full service" Dealers that want to have you change ALL fluids at 25 hrs are just trying to "line their pockets" Not necessary except on machines like the Predator or Outlaw! OPT

 

Hmm, looking at the book that came with mine and according to the dealer, they both say 10 hours, then again at 25, then 50.

 

I'd definitely change it now at 3 hours and not give it another thought. If it really bothers you change it again after the trip.

 

The very least, as previous sugested, try to loosen the oil filtre before trip.
The first time i did an oil change on my new bike,
i almost pop's my sphinkster gasket trying to loosen filtre.

 

Not sure about your model but a small piece of cardboard or tin foil to make a chute to drain the filter when you get it loose.

 

Nice info to have!!

 

^^So true,