It's no great revelation, but for those who are brand new to turning a wrench, it might be worth mentioning.  Here's how I do it:  Take the picture before you start the job.  Print it on photo paper, which is heavier stock, and at least somewhat resistant to moisture and whatnot.  Then, as you remove a bolt, just make a cut in the paper and poke the bolt through the hole.  That way, when you go to put it all back together, there's no confusion about where the bolt with the washer, or the longer bolt, or whatever, goes.



Drawing a diagram on cardboard works just as well, but I can never find a piece of cardboard when I need it.  I know where the printer paper is, though.  Plus, they fit in a file folder for the next time I have to remove the same part.

Incidentally, here's what was behind that cover with all the bolts in it.  I finally got the nerve to open it.  It wasn't near as painful as I thought it would be.  





The guys and gals around here that know what they're doing sure make it easier.  I would have spent hundreds on this bike that I didn't have to if not for them.  My thanks to each and every one of you who spend your time writing this stuff up for the benefit of those of us who wouldn't dare try it otherwise.

Actually, once again I tried it on the parts bike first.  Still not sure when I'm going to find out what caused the nasty "thump" that put it up for sale.

At least now, when I open mine up, I can do it with a small measure of confidence in myself.  I just don't know if I really need to yet.  5000 miles or so on the clock.  At least the last 1500 with synthetic oil.  I have reason to believe it was well maintained before I got it, as well.  What do you think?

Pretty neat having a dog "stand in" for the overhead cam..runs well on water no doubt.

Ronnie - Mack  Ronnie - Mack Rrmm Rrmmm..yes, those names will definately do just fine.  My Newf was a great assistant, she'd put so much saliva on a tool it would slip out of my hand..

Yeah, it made a noise like "KAHWHUMP!!!" and stopped dead.  The kid ran it out of oil.  The dealer started to open it up and then told them it would cost more to fix than it was worth, so they sold it to me for $150.  I'm using it as a rehearsal tool.  If something needs doing on my bike that I'm not sure about, I tear into this one to see what I'm getting into first.  It's been a good source of spares, as well.  I've already gotten my $150 out of it, I think.

Also, if you are still compiling data on tensioners, this one has about 19,000 miles on it.  No idea how it was ridden or what oil was put in it, when they bothered to put in any at all.

Sandy Koocanusa wrote on 06/03/08 at 21:10:08:


That's the lousy thing about reading the oil level through that itsy bitsy window thingie...

The engineers at Suzuki might as well have put a pair of dice with the instructions "try your luck"  

I considered drilling and tapping a hole for a dipstick but the clutch is in the way  

I am actually beginnng to think I may be running dry... so I'll just try my hand at changing the oil to see exactly how much I was riding on...

Now... what was that theory about "motor oil for diesels" being a better "wet clutch bike oil" than "motor oil for gas engines" ?

Piece of cardboard (Miller Lite box  ) and a sharpie marker.  Definitely wouldn't get an A in art class for my rendition of a sidecase or head cover, but it works....