Heya, just picked up a 2002 Suzuki savage, its a bit rusty but it runs like a champ. There are a few things that need fixing though.

I plan on tearing it down one of these days and getting rid of the rust then painting the pieces. One problem is there is a fuel leak, I'm guessing its just the fuel line cause the last guy didn't really try and fix anything on the bike, it only leaks when the motor is running.

The other issue which I could use some help with is that the tail light comes on when the power is on, but it doesn't get brighter when the brakes are pressed. I wouldn't be so hard pressed about it, but to pass an army inspection I need that to work, and without the inspection I can't ride on base without the risk of getting in serious trouble with my unit.

When I tear it down I'll check into things further, I'm hoping its just a loose plug or something, any advice on what to look for would be much appriciated  

Your brake light issue is likely just a bad bulb. I dont know offhand what bulb you'd need but I'll check if you like, assuming someone else doesnt come in and let you know.
As far as the fuel leak...where's it leaking from? Petcock to tank? Vacuum line to the carb? Gas line to carb? In any case it's no big deal but to fix it more details are needed.

Check your brake light button under the brake peddle.

If, you or someone else adjusted the rear brake a little too tight, that could stop the brake cable from moving far enough to acuate the rear brake lite switch. If you look under, you'll see how it works together. I fixed mine by just backing off on the rear brake adjustment a touch

replace your hoses and the rear bulb.
vac line should be dry, if you got gas in it you got problems.
if its the 1/4" line that's leaking, no prob, just replace.
hope that gets it done for you.

oil change procedure is in the tech doc's
and you'll find an owners manual
and a service whatchamacallit.

awesome, thanks guys, i'll check back in after getting some wrench time in