Removing plate under oil tank

[Doug5283]

I recently pulled the trigger on a '14 STS. Debated a lot between that & an F3. Got a great deal & truly enjoying the 998. Here's the pickle I'm in- want to change the oil to start fresh/have peace of mind knowing it's correct. Followed directions/tips from here on the forum getting the panels off & I was whistling a happy tune. Got under the oil reservoir plug... & it's a perfect round/stripped hole. Allen socket has nothing to grab on to. Can't get to it to do the old Vice Grip trick because of the plate under it. Anyone have experience removing the plate? Looks like it's bolted to the frame. Thanks

[spyder01]

I dont know about the plate but if you can get a chisel(not too sharp)on the plug at about a 45 deg angle and tap it with a hammer so your pushing it CCW all but the most frozen plugs will break loose.

[WisconsinDavid]

Plate has just a few bolts and drops... I took mine off on both sides to let more air breath to help with heat. (If that is what you are referring to) They are splash guards... some keep them on and some toss. Having the one of the oil side off makes for easier oil servicing.

[Nobodyjj]

Drive a torque bit in and try that.

[Doug5283]

Thanks everyone. Really enjoying the bike so far. Stuff happens, though.

[Little Blue]

Did you get the old oil plug removed? I would recommend the Gold Plug.....

[Doug5283]

Haven't had a chance to mess around with it yet. Have new OEM plugs, & did order the 2 gold plugs for next oil change. Hopefully that sucker will be off by the time I get the Gold Plugs, anyway

[cptjam]

Buy needlenose vicegrips. I’ve removed several oil tank drain plugs with those.

[michrick]

needle nose vise grips work great used them on a stripped drain plug on a Victory and Can Am before.

[Doug5283]

Thanks guys. I got the needle nose pliers (Vice Grips) on it but it wouldn't budge. Finally cried uncle & had dealer do it. They put in a new plug, too. I'm set to do the next oil change nyself when it's time, anyway.

[Gwolf]

I had to pull the plastic cover on the oil drain side of 2019 F3-S to get the plug out. It was first time removing the plug and it was put in by either the factory or the dealer. It was so tight nothing would move it. Stripped the hole trying. Gave up on it and pulled the plastic cover that was on that side. Got a chisel on the edge of the plug and a couple of good taps broke it loose. I replaced both plugs with hex head after-market plugs. It does help a lot to get the Spyder up off the floor at least a foot so you can work under it.