Yes, BMW changed the quantity to 180 ml on an oil change. BMW did not say why they changed the level, but most folks believe it had to do with pressure and leaky seals.

In further changes, apparently late '10 and '11 bikes even have an FD vent. I find that somewhat humorous as BMW went from a non-vented drive to a vented drive in the early 60s, too!

 

Many thanks,
Peter

 

FD Oil Quantity

Hi
I just drained the FD oil out of my 2008 R1200GS and the volume measured just over 300ML ??? This is the first time change @ 6000 Mi, I bought bike new. I can't see anywhere in the riders manual that gives the volume but my service manual on CD says 180ML. Has anyone else seen this?

Dave C

 

That is surprising. BM has definitely been reducing the volume. The FD's are all the same so the volume in your 2008 should be 200 officially but BMW have reduced it to 180 in the 2010.
My 2004 had 230ml but I have never heard of 300ml.
I suggest you put 200ml back, GL5 75W90 fully synthetic. Silkolene Syn 5, Motylgear etc...
But isn't it under guarantee still?

 

In '08 the recommended amount was 250 for the initial fill, 220 for an oil change. You aren't the first person to find more than the recommended amount.

The current specification is for 200 for the initial fill and 180 for an oil change. The new spec apparently applies to the older bikes, too.

 

Thanks Peter / Marc

I was rather surprised by the amount of oil that came out, (in fact I did not think the FD would have held this much oil) so I double checked my findings, 305ml. Must have been overfull from new and thankful no leaks, could not have been much room for expansion. So 180ml it is and thanks again for the speedy responses with supporting information.
Regards,

Dave

 

FD oil

After talking with the mechanic at the BMW shop, this is what he told me for my 08. If it is an oil change 180 m/l, if new or rebuild 200m/l. He said in the normal drain/refill, you don't get all of the oil out of the final drive. With this oil that remains 180 m/l will fill it to proper level. With a rebuild/new is completely dry add 200 m/l to fill. You can take that for what you think it is worth! I have been using it for 43k, no trouble.

 

Thanks...

 

Well, a ten year delayed thank you is still a thank you..... I guess. 😂

 

Just rebuilt my diff, going for the 200 ml as per recommended... will report later

 

On a rebuilt unit I would pour in as much oil as you want 200ml or more. Then I would spin the rear wheel a few revolutions by hand and let everything sit for a few minutes. Then I would drain the oil and then refill with 180ml of oil seal everything up and ride like the wind.