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The V-Star is a great bike, but maintenance on it has one major gripe: the oil filter is inside the crankcase and requires the removal of at least one pipe for access. Many companies including Barons, Phat and Jardine make relocation kits that use a spin-on filter located elsewhere, with lines and an adapter, making filter changes easier. It also increases the oil capacity, which isn't a bad thing to have. The kit in this install is the Phat version, which included 3 HD filters and offered the lowest retail price.

With the front pipe removed, the process follows that of the normal oil filter removal. Some of the gaskets are used from a stock filter for the kit, so follow the instructions carefully. Only three of the bolts from the cover are used, instead of those from the filter cover. Two dress bolts are included to fill the holes left on the case by the now-unusable case-panel. The fittings should be installed on both the case and filter end before they're installed onto the bike. We used Teflon tape and followed the instructions for tightening. After some work, they were installed and the lines were fitted and tightened. The bike was started, and needed about a pint and a half more oil, give or take. The new filter looks very good and the kit has great fit and finish. The missing case panel actually cleans up that side of the case, though some never-dull will be needed to work on some of the unpolished portions of the case.

Images


James takes a look at the job ahead

Removing the case panel

Filter removed

Case adapter installation

Installing the adapter

Fitting the lines

Filter end

Another view of the filter side

Filter installed, pretty