Oil Level confusion

[xs1100newb]

So, I open up the port where oil goes expecting a dip stick. Instead I find an oil sump that appears to be dry as the sahar. I find the watchglass on the side of hte crank case and the oil level is between the two marks.

I am really weirded out that I cannot see any oil peering down the fill hole. Can someone confirm that everything is A-ok?

Adam

[crazy steve]

If the oil is between the marks at the sight glass (with the bike on the centerstand or standing vertical), it's good....

[fredintoon]

So, I open up the port where oil goes expecting a dip stick. Instead I find an oil sump that appears to be dry as the sahar. I find the watchglass on the side of hte crank case and the oil level is between the two marks.

I am really weirded out that I cannot see any oil peering down the fill hole. Can someone confirm that everything is A-ok?

Adam

Hi Adam,
if you can see the oil level in the sight glass between the marks with the bike held upright you are OK.
The reason there ain't a dipstick is because if there was one on the underside of the filler plug it'd rub on the clutch and wear away to leave metal filings in the oil.
BTW, with the sidecar I can't see the sight glass.
I used to carry a mirror on a stick to check the oil level then I made a T-shaped dipstick from a strip of stainless steel to use when the rig is parked and the engine is stopped.

[natemoen]

I used to carry a mirror on a stick to check the oil level then I made a T-shaped dipstick from a strip of stainless steel to use when the rig is parked and the engine is stopped.

the wife took the mirror on a stick away after she caught you looking up other women's skirts with it sidnt she?