How to Check the Indian Chieftain Oil Level – Indian Motorcycle

Learn how to check the oil level on your Indian Chieftain. Watch for the recommended oil level found between the add line and the full line on the dipstick.

[danjohnston]

I bought a 2018 Chieftain Dark Horse last fall. I still haven't figured out how to check the oil properly. I have seen forums online talking about this and it appears to be frustrating many people. A couple of comments that I took note of;
1. "Run it 'til the oil light comes on, or wait until it's time to change the oil(5, 000 mi). There is no absolute way of checking the oil on these beasts, even the dealers are clueless."
2. "Been a ton of threads on the subject and they all have come to the conclusion that Polaris really messed up with their oil level check procedure. Check it warm on the sidestand and as long as it's in the filler neck you're good."

[nicholasphillips]

Good video, but I want to know what bright spark thought of using a black dipstick to check black oil ? Makes it hard for us half blind old buggers.

[jimrhodes]

Good to know. I am guessing the the bike must be level and not leaning. that wasn't addressed verbally in the video.. LOVE MY

[doronikgjcs]

Love my Springfield but this process is a PITA. Not to mention that the space between the ADD and FULL marks is enormous and a fresh oil change just barely, and I mean barely reads above the add line.

[sfret]

Engine in the upright position, right? Good side information. My dealer does my oil. I was getting a large amount of oil in the air filter. Ahaaa. Now I know. The sequence is warm for 30 seconds then check.

Can't find anything on my 2021 Indian ROADMASTER. The check engine light is on. I guess I'll look around.

[electricritual]

What a production just to check the oil.

[davedavenport]

So I do like the video and yes it is as simple as that. I have though had in depth conversations with many about bike being on kick stand or up right. This video shows you are checking oil in an up right position!

I am wondering how this would affect accuracy of oil check. And no I am not trying to be a smart Ass

[kenrodz]

Does this applies to Scout ABS also? Thank you

[VJ-uyjg]

Where can I find that chrome dip stick cap & tool?

[Jameswilllee]

Why in God’s name did they make the oil dipstick black. It’s extremely difficult to see the contrast when checking the oil level.

[ChrisDeVary]

i have a 2021 indian chieftain limited and my dipstick doesn't unscrew as easy as that but good video

[wascomj]

I put 5.5 quarts as recommended by Indian but still no oil on dipstick. What do I do?

[mikebuckley]

can you check the oil on the side stand

[phillombardi]

Odd the manual says to "wait one minute before checking the oil level" and he says to check it WITHIN one minute... not sure what the deal is. Anyone care to chime in?

[donrudeboyt]

Maybe, instead of the add line, it should say acceptable.

[.vision]

So why on earth is this necessary?! Why can’t you design that in a way I can regularly check the oil WITHOUT the help of a second person - for I usually don’t have a stand with me. Also my dealer said, it has to be hot, not just run for 2 min. Whereas I believe you, how come dealers say such things. I hope the Challenger doesn’t need to sing the national anthem additionally ...