Instructions for an Oil Change on a Suzuki GZ250

The 249cc, single-cylinder GZ250 is one of Suzuki's smallest motorcycles available in the U.S. This small and easy-to-ride motorcycle has become a popular option for new riders who are more interested in a cruiser-style machine. While new motorcyclists will hone their riding skills aboard the GZ250, the machine also offers an introduction to basic motorcycle maintenance routines, such as regular oil changes, due to its relatively simple design. These oil changes are straightforward, requiring only a few hand tools, and should be done after the first 600 miles then in 3,000-mile intervals.

Things You'll Need:

• 17 mm socket
• Socket wrench
• Oil pan
• Towels
• 10 mm socket
• Oil-filter element
• Funnel
• 2 qts.motor oil, SAE 10W40

1. Start the motorcycle and let the engine idle for five minutes

Start the motorcycle and let the engine idle for five minutes, allowing the oil to warm up and expand. Stop the motor after the oil has warmed and park the motorcycle on its kick stand.

2. Locate the oil-drain plug, centered on the underside of the motor behind the kick stand

Locate the oil-drain plug, centered on the underside of the motor behind the kick stand. Place an oil pan beneath the drain plug. Using a 17 mm socket, remove the drain plug and allow the oil to empty from the motor. Lift the motorcycle upright to completely drain the oil from the motor. Wipe the tip of the drain plug with a clean towel before re-inserting the plug into the motor. Screw the drain plug onto the motor by hand until it is seated against the motor and tighten an additional half-turn with a socket wrench.

3. Locate the round oil-filter cover on the right side of the motor

Locate the round oil-filter cover on the right side of the motor, identified by three acorn nuts around the edge of the cover. Push against the oil-filter cover as you remove the acorn nuts with a 10 mm socket. Slowly pull the cover away from the motor. A small amount of oil may leak from the cover; wipe it away with a clean towel. Pull the filter spring and oil-filter element out of the motor.

4. Insert the open end of the new oil-filter element into the motor

Insert the open end of the new oil-filter element into the motor. Place the spring into the round retainer on the inside of the oil-filter cover. Place the oil-filter cover onto the motor and hold it in place while you tighten the acorn nuts with a 10 mm socket.

5. Unscrew the oil-filler cap on the right side of the motor and insert a funnel

Unscrew the oil-filler cap on the right side of the motor and insert a funnel into the filler neck. Slowly add up to 1.5 quarts of fresh SAE 10W40 motor oil. Remove the funnel and wipe away any spills with a clean towel before screwing the oil-filler cap into place.

6. Start the motor and let it idle for one minute

Start the motor and let it idle for one minute. Stop the motor and kneel to the right of the motorcycle. Grasp the right handlebar and pull the motorcycle into an upright position. Oil should fill the round oil-level gauge on the right side of the motor. If the oil level is below the "F" mark on the gauge, lower the motorcycle onto its kick stand and add a small amount of oil in through the oil-filler neck and check the oil level again. Repeat as necessary until the oil is level with the "F" mark.

Tips and Warnings

Use a motorcycle stand to hold the motorcycle upright to make the job easier. Press against the oil-filter cover to prevent the filter spring from expanding, making it difficult to remove the cover's acorn nuts.

The motor and motor oil will be hot. Use caution and wear gloves to prevent burns. Don't over-tighten the drain plug. Excessive tightening can shear off the threads, preventing the drain plug from sealing completely.

Video: Suzuki GZ250 oil and spark plug service

Helpful comments on this video:

• Thanks for sharing that ; it was very helpful. I see you fill the oil up to the top line. There is a low line and top line for the limits. Overfilling is not usually a good thing to do so these lines are helpful, and for seeing your range.
• Gotta love the old bikes, seems like with all the newer bikes you need to at least remove the fuel tank just to access the spark plug and often need special tools that you have to buy separately.