User manual question.

[RavenX]

My friend has manufacturers user manual for GS500E Twin (1989-1997) and I have a 2004 gs500f bike.  I was wondering if I could use his manual to do maintenance on my bike or would it be better if I went out and got the 2004 version? thanks.

[Phaedrus]

Do a search for the differences between the two, but there won't be very many. The bodywork (incuding headlight and turn signals), oil cooler, the carburators I believe, the gas tank is different too, and probably a few other minor things. For most things though, I bet it would work.  

[RavenX]

sweet, thanks for the fast reply. I will go ahead and use his manual and if I do come across something that is different, I will just go ahead and buy 2004 edition.  

[starwalt]

When it comes to the recommended mileages, there should be very little, if any differences. One difference will be access to the headlight bulbs and probably the instrument cluster lamps. The oil pan plug may also require removal of a lower portion of the bodywork. Access to things under the bodywork will, of course, be different. There is a step-by-step on how to remove the bodywork here on GSTwin. I saw a link a day or so ago.

If you are savvy enough, with GSTwin and the original manual it can be done. To get a current service manual that includes 04+, you will have to buy an OEM book or the supplement that includes the year. Haynes and Clymer stop at 02.