Stupid question time....

[JRS81]

I need to change the air filter on my DL650 which means I need to take the tank off. I've never done this before but it looks like a fairly simple process. My silly question is do I need to drain the tank before removing it or are the hose connectors self closing valve type things (that's a technical term!)?

Also, whilst I have the tank off, is there anything else I should do whilst I have access?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Big Al wi the Vee]

There is no need to drain the fuel tank, I did my air filter a few weeks ago ( DL1000) and I'm sure they are both the same or near as.

it is an easy job that even I could do and I'm Fick as thuck.  

[Strommer]

It's not gravity fed, so once the bike is off, the pump won't be pushing fuel through and nothing will run out.  It does dribble a bit (tablespoon at most) so worth putting down a rag to catch it all.

It's worth having your tank 1/4 full as it's lighter to lift.

[JRS81]

Excellent! Thanks chaps, hopefully I'll be able to get it all done this evening!

[stevee_p]

Keep us posted / take some photos if possible as this is something I've got coming up shortly and have never done it before either!

[greywolf]

Here's how the tank comes off the Vee and Wee. http://www.vstrom.info/Smf/index.php/topic,7566.0.html

[Descolada]

You can also watch Dr Vstrom /Parasound's excellent video on YouTube;

[JRS81]

All done now and I can confirm that it is a very easy job! Took me nearly 2 hours as I was being careful so that I'd know which bolt goes where when reassembling, but I reckon that it could easily be done in an hour next time!

I can't believe what a difference changing the filter has made! The old one had hoovered up half the sahara and an interesting collection of insects as well so there's a noticeable difference now the bikes breathing properly!