Knowing the correct engine oil capacity helps protect internal components, improve performance, and extend engine life. Whether you ride a Touring, Softail, or CVO model, understanding how much oil your Milwaukee-Eight engine requires will help you perform accurate and safe oil changes.
Milwaukee 8 Engine Oil Capacity
The Milwaukee-Eight engine oil capacity typically ranges from about 4.5 to 5.0 quarts (4.3–4.7 liters) with a filter change, depending on displacement and model, with the 107 cubic-inch engine holding around 4.5 quarts and the 114 and 117 cubic-inch engines holding approximately 5.0 quarts.
Milwaukee-Eight engines use a dry-sump oiling system, which means oil is stored in a separate reservoir rather than the crankcase. Because of this design, the total oil capacity is higher than many riders expect, and correct filling procedures are important.
Typical engine oil capacities are as follows:
- Milwaukee-Eight 107: approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters)
- Milwaukee-Eight 114: approximately 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters)
- Milwaukee-Eight 117: approximately 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters)
These figures generally represent the oil capacity with a filter change during routine service. A completely dry engine fill may require slightly more oil, but this situation is uncommon outside of engine rebuilds or major repairs.
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Best Engine Oil for Milwaukee 8 Engine
Click the Links Below to Check the Latest Prices on AMAZON
1. Maxima Racing V-Twin Full Synthetic 20W-50
- Designed specifically for V-twin motorcycle engines
- Full synthetic formula for high-temperature stability
- Excellent protection against engine wear and deposits
- Helps reduce engine noise and vibration
- Suitable for air-cooled and oil-cooled Milwaukee-Eight engines
2. Lucas Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W-50
- Formulated for high-performance motorcycle engines
- Provides strong film strength under heavy loads
- Helps reduce oil consumption in hot running conditions
- Good resistance to thermal breakdown
- Compatible with Milwaukee-Eight, Twin Cam, and Evolution engines
3. Klotz Synthetic Motorcycle Oil 20W-50
- Full synthetic oil engineered for V-twin motorcycles
- High zinc and phosphorus content for enhanced wear protection
- Maintains viscosity in extreme heat and long rides
- Helps keep internal engine components clean
- Suitable for Milwaukee-Eight engines in touring and performance applications
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Why Correct Oil Capacity Matters
Maintaining the correct oil level in a Milwaukee-Eight engine is essential for several reasons. Too little oil can result in poor lubrication, excessive heat, and premature engine wear. Critical components such as bearings, camshafts, and pistons depend on a consistent oil supply to operate safely.
Overfilling the engine can also cause problems. Excess oil may become aerated, reducing its ability to lubricate properly. It can also increase crankcase pressure, potentially forcing oil out through breathers or seals. Maintaining the proper oil level ensures stable oil pressure, effective cooling, and smooth engine operation.
What Is the Milwaukee-Eight Engine?
The Milwaukee-Eight engine was introduced by Harley-Davidson in 2017 to replace the Twin Cam platform. It is a modern V-twin engine designed for improved efficiency, smoother operation, and better cooling.
The name “Milwaukee-Eight” comes from its eight-valve configuration, which allows better airflow and more consistent power delivery.
Milwaukee-Eight engines are available in several popular displacements, including 107, 114, and 117 cubic inches.
These engines are commonly found in Harley-Davidson Touring bikes such as the Road Glide and Street Glide, as well as Softail and CVO models. While the design is largely consistent across these engines, oil capacity can vary slightly depending on displacement and model configuration.
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How to Check Oil Level Correctly
Checking the oil level on a Milwaukee-Eight engine must be done properly to get an accurate reading. Because oil expands when warm, Harley-Davidson recommends checking oil with the engine at operating temperature.
After warming up the motorcycle, park it on level ground in an upright position. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean, then reinsert it without threading it in unless otherwise specified in your owner’s manual.
Remove it again to check the oil level. The oil should fall within the recommended range on the dipstick, not above or below it.
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Oil Change Best Practices
When changing oil on a Milwaukee-Eight engine, it is best to start by adding slightly less oil than the listed capacity. For example, you can begin with around four quarts, then gradually add oil while checking the dipstick. This method helps prevent overfilling.
Always replace the oil filter during an oil change. A fresh filter ensures proper oil flow and removes contaminants that could otherwise circulate through the engine.
Using motorcycle-specific oil, commonly 20W-50 for many Milwaukee-Eight engines, helps maintain proper viscosity and protection across a wide temperature range.
Model and Year Variations
While the oil capacities listed above are accurate for most Milwaukee-Eight engines, minor variations can occur depending on the model year, cooling system, and oil pan design.
Some Touring models with different oil tank configurations may require small adjustments during refilling. Always consult your motorcycle’s owner’s manual for the most precise specifications for your exact model.
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FAQs
How many quarts of oil does a Milwaukee 8 motor take?
A Milwaukee-Eight engine typically takes between 4.5 and 5.0 quarts of oil with a filter change, depending on the displacement and model, with the 107 cubic-inch engine using about 4.5 quarts and the 114 and 117 cubic-inch engines using around 5.0 quarts.
What is the oil level on a Milwaukee 8?
The correct oil level on a Milwaukee-Eight engine should be between the add and full marks on the dipstick when the engine is fully warmed up and the motorcycle is parked upright on level ground, as checking it cold can give an inaccurate reading.
How much oil does an 8 cylinder engine take?
An 8-cylinder engine generally holds 5 to 8 quarts of oil, depending on engine size, design, and whether the oil filter is included, with larger V8 engines often requiring more oil than smaller ones.
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What kind of oil does a Harley M8 take?
Most Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight engines use 20W-50 motorcycle-specific engine oil, which provides proper lubrication and heat protection for air-cooled and oil-cooled V-twin engines, though riders should always follow the viscosity recommended in the owner’s manual.
How often should I change my Harley M8 oil?
Harley-Davidson generally recommends changing Milwaukee-Eight engine oil every 5,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first, though more frequent changes may be beneficial for riders who operate in hot climates, heavy traffic, or severe riding conditions.
Is the Milwaukee 8 oil cooled?
Yes, the Milwaukee-Eight engine is partially oil cooled, with engine oil helping to manage heat, and some models also feature liquid-cooled cylinder heads for additional temperature control, especially in high-performance and touring applications.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the correct Milwaukee-Eight engine oil capacity is one of the simplest yet most important aspects of Harley-Davidson maintenance. Using the proper amount of oil protects your engine, improves reliability, and helps ensure a long service life.
Whether you perform your own maintenance or simply want to stay informed, knowing your engine’s oil capacity allows you to avoid common mistakes and keep your Harley running at its best.
