Arctic Cat 150 (2017) Oil Change: A Simple Guide

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into something super important for keeping your 2017 Arctic Cat 150 running smoothly: changing the oil. Regular oil changes are the lifeblood of your ATV's engine, and doing it yourself can save you some serious cash and give you a better connection with your machine. So, let's get started!

Why Changing Your Oil Matters

Alright, let's talk about why this task is so crucial. Your engine oil is like the circulatory system of your ATV. It lubricates all the moving parts, reduces friction, and helps to keep everything cool. Over time, the oil breaks down and gets contaminated with dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts. When this happens, it can't do its job effectively, which can lead to increased wear and tear on your engine. Neglecting oil changes can eventually lead to some expensive repairs or even engine failure. Trust me, you don't want that!

Think of it like this: imagine trying to run a marathon with shoes full of sand. Not fun, right? That's what it's like for your engine when the oil is old and dirty. Fresh oil ensures that all the components are properly lubricated, allowing them to move freely and efficiently. This not only extends the life of your engine but also helps to maintain its performance. A well-lubricated engine runs smoother, quieter, and more powerfully. Plus, clean oil helps to dissipate heat, preventing overheating and potential damage. It’s a small investment of time and effort that pays off big in the long run.

Regular oil changes also help to maintain the overall cleanliness of your engine. As the oil circulates, it picks up contaminants and carries them away from critical components. When you drain the old oil, you're also removing these harmful particles, preventing them from building up and causing problems. This is especially important for ATVs that are used in dusty or muddy conditions. The more you ride in challenging environments, the more frequently you'll need to change your oil to keep your engine running at its best. So, make oil changes a regular part of your maintenance routine and your Arctic Cat 150 will thank you for it!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you get your hands dirty, let's make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a quick checklist:

New Oil: Check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount of oil. Usually, a 10W-40 oil designed for ATVs is a good choice.
Oil Filter: Again, consult your manual to get the right one.
Wrench: To remove the drain plug and oil filter.
Oil Filter Wrench: Makes removing the old filter much easier.
Drain Pan: To catch the old oil.
Funnel: For pouring in the new oil without making a mess.
Shop Rags: For wiping up spills.
Gloves: To keep your hands clean.

Having all your supplies ready before you start will make the process much smoother and prevent any frustrating interruptions. Make sure you have the correct type of oil and filter for your 2017 Arctic Cat 150. Using the wrong oil can damage your engine, so it's always best to double-check. An oil filter wrench is a worthwhile investment, as it can be difficult to remove the old filter by hand. A good drain pan will prevent oil from spilling onto your garage floor or driveway, and a funnel will make it easier to pour in the new oil without making a mess. Don't forget the shop rags – you'll definitely need them! And gloves are a must if you want to keep your hands clean and protected. Once you have everything gathered, you're ready to get started.

Consider investing in a good quality oil and filter. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest options, higher quality products can offer better protection and performance for your engine. Look for synthetic or semi-synthetic oils that are specifically designed for ATVs. These oils often contain additives that help to reduce wear and tear, prevent corrosion, and keep your engine running cooler. Similarly, a good quality oil filter will do a better job of trapping dirt and debris, preventing them from circulating through your engine. Spending a little extra on quality supplies can make a big difference in the long run.

Finally, before you start, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the location of the drain plug and oil filter on your Arctic Cat 150. Consult your owner's manual for a diagram or description of their locations. This will save you time and frustration when you're under the ATV trying to find them. It's also a good idea to have a clear and well-lit workspace. This will make it easier to see what you're doing and prevent any accidents. So, take a few minutes to prepare your workspace and gather your supplies, and you'll be well on your way to a successful oil change.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Oil

Okay, let’s get down to business! Here’s how to change the oil on your 2017 Arctic Cat 150:

Warm-Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil flows more easily.
Locate the Drain Plug: It’s usually on the bottom of the engine.
Position the Drain Pan: Place it under the drain plug.
Remove the Drain Plug: Use the correct size wrench and carefully unscrew the plug. Be careful, the oil might be hot! Let the old oil drain completely.
Replace the Drain Plug: Once the oil is drained, replace the drain plug with a new crush washer (if applicable) and tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Locate the Oil Filter: Usually on the side of the engine.
Remove the Old Oil Filter: Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be prepared for some oil spillage.
Prepare the New Oil Filter: Lightly lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil.
Install the New Oil Filter: Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it an additional ¾ turn, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Add New Oil: Remove the oil fill cap and use a funnel to pour in the correct amount of new oil, as specified in your owner's manual.
Check the Oil Level: Use the dipstick to check the oil level and add more if needed.
Start the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes and check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter.
Re-Check the Oil Level: After running the engine, turn it off and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, check the oil level again and add more if necessary.

Remember safety first, guys! Always wear gloves to protect your hands from the old oil. Be careful when removing the drain plug, as the oil can be hot and may splash. Dispose of the old oil properly at a recycling center or auto parts store. And don't over-tighten the drain plug or oil filter, as this can damage the threads or gasket. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your oil changed in no time.

When removing the old oil filter, be prepared for a bit of a mess. The filter is full of oil, and some of it will inevitably spill out when you remove it. Have some shop rags handy to wipe up any spills. It's also a good idea to place a plastic bag or container under the filter as you remove it to catch the dripping oil. This will help to keep your workspace clean and prevent oil from getting on your clothes or the floor.

After installing the new oil filter, make sure it's properly tightened. The manufacturer's instructions will usually specify how much to tighten the filter after the gasket makes contact. Over-tightening can damage the gasket and cause leaks, while under-tightening can also lead to leaks. Use an oil filter wrench to tighten the filter to the correct torque. If you don't have a torque wrench, you can usually tighten it by hand until it's snug, then give it an additional ¾ turn.

When adding the new oil, be sure to use the correct type and amount specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong oil can damage your engine, and adding too much or too little oil can also cause problems. Use a funnel to pour in the oil, and check the oil level regularly as you add it. The dipstick will usually have markings to indicate the minimum and maximum oil levels. Add oil until the level is between these markings. After running the engine, let it sit for a few minutes and then check the oil level again. This will allow the oil to settle and give you a more accurate reading.

Tips and Tricks

Consult Your Manual: Always refer to your owner's manual for the specific oil type, amount, and filter for your 2017 Arctic Cat 150.
Warm-Up the Engine: Warming up the engine before draining the oil helps the oil flow more easily and ensures that more contaminants are removed.
Don't Over-Tighten: Over-tightening the drain plug or oil filter can damage the threads or gasket. Tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Proper Disposal: Dispose of the old oil and filter properly at a recycling center or auto parts store.
Regular Maintenance: Make oil changes a regular part of your maintenance routine to keep your Arctic Cat 150 running smoothly.

Following these tips and tricks will help you to perform a successful oil change on your 2017 Arctic Cat 150. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your ATV running smoothly and reliably. By changing your oil regularly, you can extend the life of your engine and prevent costly repairs down the road. So, take the time to learn how to do it yourself, and you'll be rewarded with a well-maintained and long-lasting machine. Happy riding!

When warming up the engine, don't let it run for too long. A few minutes is usually enough to warm up the oil without overheating the engine. If the engine gets too hot, it can be uncomfortable to work on, and the oil may be too hot to handle safely. Just let it run long enough to warm the oil slightly, making it flow more easily when you drain it.

When removing the drain plug, be sure to use the correct size wrench. Using the wrong size wrench can damage the plug and make it difficult to remove. If the plug is stuck, don't force it. Try using a penetrating oil to loosen it up before attempting to remove it again. And remember to have a drain pan in place to catch the old oil as it drains.

When installing the new oil filter, lightly lubricate the rubber gasket with fresh oil. This will help to ensure a good seal and prevent leaks. Screw the filter on by hand until the gasket makes contact, then tighten it an additional ¾ turn, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Don't over-tighten the filter, as this can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

After changing the oil, take your Arctic Cat 150 for a short ride and check for any leaks around the drain plug and oil filter. If you notice any leaks, tighten the plug or filter slightly until the leak stops. And remember to check the oil level regularly to make sure it's within the recommended range. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your oil change is done correctly and that your Arctic Cat 150 is running smoothly.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Changing the oil on your 2017 Arctic Cat 150 is a straightforward process that can save you money and keep your ATV running in tip-top shape. By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to tackle this maintenance task with confidence. Remember, a little bit of regular maintenance goes a long way in ensuring the longevity and performance of your machine. Now get out there and enjoy the ride!