Yamaha Raider Transfer Gear Case Oil Change

Yamaha recommends changing out the transfer case gear oil in a 2008 Yamaha Raider at 600 miles, and then again at every 16,000 miles of use.

It’s an easy job, with the only somewhat difficult part being removing the exhaust and then reinstalling it with new gaskets after the gear oil is changed. This particular Yamaha motorcycle model requires an 80-weight, API service level GL-4 oil from Yamalube. 

Watch the video above or follow the steps below to change transfer case gear oil in a Yamaha Raider motorcycle. 

Tools and Parts - Yamaha Raider Gear Oil Change

• Ratchet and extensions
• 8mm Allens
• 12mm wrench
• Torx 40 socket

• Drain pan
• Clear tube and syringe
• Exhaust pipe gasket
• Friction modified drive shaft gear oil

Yamaha Raider Transfer Case Oil Change

Step 1. Remove the exhaust from the motorcycle. 

NOTE: When removing the exhaust, keep in mind there’s an O2 sensor in there, so be careful not to damage its wires.

PRO TIP: If your bike’s exhaust is as rusty as ours, add a little bit of penetrating oil to the exhaust bolts and let it sit for a while to prevent snapping off the bolts while you’re removing the exhaust. 

NOTE: If you can’t wiggle the exhaust off the machine, drop down the foot pegs. 

Step 2. Disconnect the O2 sensor.

Step 3. Remove the fill plug, making sure you don’t lose its O-ring. 

Step 4. Place a drain pan underneath the bike, then remove the Torx 40 drain bolt and let the old gear oil drain out. Reinstall the drain bolt after the oil drains out completely.

NOTE: The old gear oil is of a heavy weight, so be patient, as it’ll take a while to drain out completely.

Step 5. Remove the check bolt (fill plug) and its washer.

NOTE: The fill plug’s washer can easily get stuck inside like ours did, so make sure you retrieve it and don’t lose it. 

Step 6. Fill the tank with new gear oil until you see it overflowing out of the opening.  

PRO TIP: The method you want to use to fill the gear oil is up to you. We used a clear plastic tube and a syringe to help push the thick oil through the tube. 

Step 7. Reinstall the fill plug with its washer in place.

Step 8. Remove the old exhaust gaskets and replace them with new ones. 

PRO TIP: Add a little grease to the back side of the new seals to help them seat properly. 

Step 9. Plug the O2 sensor back in, then reinstall the exhaust. 

Step 10. Wipe the exhaust down with a clean rag or towel to prevent your finger prints from getting burned into the exhaust and you’re done. 

Watch the video below to see how to change the engine oil in a Yamaha Raider motorcycle.