Changing spark plugs, air filter myself

[cajrovd]

I going to be changing the plugs & air filter for the first time myself.

1. I was wondering if the fairing on the 500F has to be removed first before changing the spark plugs, are they located at the top of the cylinder or somewhere else on a bike? :dunno:

2. Where's the best place to pick up bike spark plugs and an air filter, does AutoZone carry this stuff or do I need to go to a bike store? :dunno:

3. Is a K&N filter going to increase power but decrease mpg? :dunno:

I've already tackled the oil changes without any problem, stepping up to the next challenge...

[Kerry]

1. I was wondering if the fairing on the 500F has to be removed first before changing the spark plugs, are they located at the top of the cylinder or somewhere else on a bike? :dunno:

I couldn't say about the fairing, but YES the plugs are at the top of the cylinder:

2. Where's the best place to pick up bike spark plugs and an air filter, does AutoZone carry this stuff or do I need to go to a bike store? :dunno:

YES, any auto parts store should carry the right spark plugs.

Do you mind if I ask why you are changing the air filter?  The book says to change it every 7500 miles.  I changed my first one at about 15,000 miles.  I replaced it with a washable / reusable K&N In-Airbox Replacement Filter with the restrictor ring installed so I could stick with the stock jetting.

The air filter is right in front of the battery:


On my '99 I have to remove the seat, drop the plastic side panels, undo the two tank mounting bolts and lift the rear of the tank to get at the filter.  But the seat, side panels and tank are all different on the 2001+ models so I'm not sure how different the procedure would be (if any).

3. Is a K&N filter going to increase power but decrease mpg? :dunno:

I haven't noticed either one - but don't forget that I have the restrictor ring installed.

[ashman]

hey,
I just changed my plugs and bought them from autozone. So, yes they do carry them. How many miles do you have on your bike already that your changing the plugs??? They shouldnt need replaceing for a while.  But be sure to open the box/ package to be sure the right part is inside. I got a oil filter the other day and got ready to work and opened the box to find the wrong part. Right part # wrong part.

-ash

[cajrovd]

Thanks for the info ash and Kerry!
Those picts really help Kerry, I think I will need to remove the fairing to get at the plugs.
I'm actually already up to 7,200 miles (I commute on the bike every day) so I'm just planning on replacing the plugs, air filter at 7,500 (this weekend). I looked at the air filter last night and it looked a little dirty on the inside, so I think I'll replace it. Don't want to void my extended warranty...  

[Richard UK]

Read your extended warranty carefully.  You may void it simply by doing any work yourself, however well intentioned.