Oil filters work as a strainer of oil. It strains all the unwanted stuff existing in the oil such as dirt, and debris entering into the engine and restricts normal oil flow to the engine. That can increase friction on engine pistons, bearings, and camshafts and resulting decay. To maintain good engine health, you need to be careful about your oil filter.
How can I clean the oil filter?
Usually, these three types of oil filters can be seen.
1. Paper oil filter.
2. Metal oil filter.
3. Fiberglass oil filter.
It is safe to be washed only when filters are designed to be washed. In my Preference, replacing the oil filter is the best practice.
When should I replace the oil filter?
It is difficult to visibly check oil filters and there is no indicator so that you can understand oil filters are clogged and not working properly. That’s why I always suggest after running 5,000-7,000 miles on your motorcycle you should toss your oil filter away and put in a new one. In general oil filters start losing their performance after 5,000-7000 mils. Change your oil filter for better functioning of your engine.
There are some following symptoms you may notice when the oil filter has any issue or is clogged-
1. A metallic sound coming from the engine.
2. Dark smoke will come out through the exhaust.
3. Oil pressure will be low.
4. Trouble to get started and sudden engine off.
5. Engine overheated.
6. Not getting the maximum speed output and less throttle response.
Recommendations:
Always use the manufacturer-suggested oil filter or the filter made for your Motorcycle. Fit it properly and make sure that no gaps are left. When you replace the oil filter make sure the previous one is properly removed. No particles are left from the previous one.