Maintaining your Honda Pioneer 1000 Side-by-Side (SxS) is crucial for its longevity and performance. While engine and DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) oil changes are commonly discussed, the sub-transmission oil change is equally important and often overlooked. This guide focuses specifically on how to perform a Honda Pioneer 1000 Oil Change for the sub-transmission, empowering you to handle this maintenance task yourself and save on dealership costs.
It’s essential to differentiate between the three oil drain locations on your Pioneer 1000: engine, DCT, and sub-transmission. Confusing these can lead to draining the wrong fluid, causing potential issues. This guide will clearly identify the sub-transmission drain plug to ensure you perform the honda pioneer 1000 oil change correctly.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials for your honda pioneer 1000 oil change.
Tools You’ll Need:
- 17mm socket and ratchet wrench
- Oil drain pan
- Shop rags
- Funnel with an extension tube (a funnel with a shut-off valve and measurement markings is beneficial)
Recommended Oil and Parts:
- Oil Type: Pro Honda GN4 10w30, 4-Stroke Motor Oil (or equivalent high-quality 10w30 motor oil) – This is the same oil used for the engine and DCT.
- Oil Quantity: Approximately 1.27 US quarts (1.2 liters)
- Crush washer (Honda recommends replacement, though it’s often optional for many DIYers)
Preparing Your Honda Pioneer 1000 for Sub-Transmission Oil Change:
- Warm-up the Engine: Start your Honda Pioneer 1000 and let it run for about 5 minutes to warm the engine oil. This helps the oil drain more effectively.
- Position and Secure: Park your SxS on a level surface and ensure it is in park with the key removed for safety.
Step-by-Step Honda Pioneer 1000 Sub-Transmission Oil Change Guide:
Step 1: Access the Sub-Transmission Fill Hole
Locate and remove the driver’s seat bottom. Underneath, you’ll find the sub-transmission oil dipstick and fill hole, positioned slightly off-center towards the passenger side. Clean the area around the dipstick to prevent debris from entering the sub-transmission during the honda pioneer 1000 oil change. Remove the dipstick to allow for better oil drainage.
Step 2: Locate and Drain the Sub-Transmission Oil
Identify the correct drain plug for the sub-transmission. It’s located on the far left as shown in the image below and is distinguishable by its larger 17mm bolt head compared to the 12mm heads of the engine and DCT drain plugs. Position your drain pan beneath this plug. Using your 17mm socket and ratchet, carefully remove the drain plug and let the old sub-transmission oil drain completely.
WARNING: Double-check you are removing the correct 17mm sub-transmission drain plug to avoid draining the wrong oil.
Step 3: Reinstall the Drain Plug
Once the oil has fully drained, reinstall the sub-transmission drain plug using your 17mm socket. Torque specifications can be found in your Honda Pioneer 1000 service manual if you wish to adhere to precise factory settings.
Step 4: Refill with Fresh Sub-Transmission Oil
Using your funnel, carefully pour approximately 1.27 US quarts of the recommended 10w30 motor oil into the sub-transmission fill hole.
Step 5: Check the Oil Level
Insert the dipstick back into the fill hole, but do not screw it in. Remove it to check the oil level. The oil level should be between the high and low marks on the dipstick. Add more oil as needed to reach the correct level.
Step 6: Final Steps
Once the oil level is correct, screw the dipstick in securely. Reattach the driver’s seat bottom.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed a honda pioneer 1000 oil change for the sub-transmission. Your Honda Pioneer 1000 is now ready for your next adventure.
Step 7: Share Your Experience
If you found this guide helpful, let us know in the comments! Your feedback helps other Honda Pioneer 1000 owners and keeps this guide visible for those looking to perform their own sub-transmission oil changes.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes and based on common practices. Always consult your Honda Pioneer 1000 service manual for official procedures and specifications. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and accuracy is not guaranteed. Always prioritize safety and refer to the official service manual for detailed instructions.
