[bassadict69]

I just acquired a 2005 ES Rancher that the owner said had probably had no servicing done to it...she said she could not remember ever even changing the oil.

Besides changing the oil and filter, what else should I plan on servicing?

 

[alloutdoors]

I just acquired a 2005 ES Rancher that the owner said had probably had no servicing done to it...she said she could not remember ever even changing the oil.

Besides changing the oil and filter, what else should I plan on servicing?

I would suggest the following:
a) change engine oil (use oil approved for wet clutches)
b) inspect the battery, ES models are sensitive to shifting with a low/poor battery
c) change, spark plug, fuel- and air-filter
d) given the year, I suspect it may have carburetor issues, but you didn't mention it here, so curious
e) change the rear differential fluid
f) lubricate all cables, brakes, etc...

That should keep you busy this weekend.

 

[bassadict69]

Proper oil recommendations?

It runs like a top, cranks right up and runs great, so evidently no carb problems.

As far as shifting problems, once in a while, I have trouble shifting back down into N...if in 2, it will not shift down but will usually shift up. If I keep playing with it and trying, it will eventually downshift.

 

[SamUK]

Oils...

10w40 engine oil. It MUST be for wet clutches, suitable for motorbikes etc
Front and rear diffs are 80/90 or ep90 hypoid Gear oil. (Tells you on the diff casing)

I change my oils every three outings or every 100 hours, whichever comes first. Keep a tight service schedule and your Honda will last forever.
The gear shifting may get easier after an oil change, see how it goes.

 

[bassadict69]

Thank you so much for the info!

 

[LBZ_Duramax]

Rotella T6 synthetic blue bottle, 5-40. I run it in everything, it’s wet clutch approved. Always looks like new oil when I change it. Won’t use anything else.

 

[bassadict69]

I assume changing the front and rear diff fluid is pretty straight forward?

 

[Goober]

Download service manual here

 

[SamUK]

I assume changing the front and rear diff fluid is pretty straight forward?

It is indeed, drain plug in the bottom of the casing and fill level to the filler plug. I always use a single hex socket on the alloy filler plugs.