I have been wrenching on these machines since I was 15-now I'm 45-in my own shop. I just wanted to throw this out for your perusal. I am SICK of opening up chaincases and clutch covers only to find out I'm the FIRST one to actually check the ****. If you don't KNOW your mechanic, try putting some clear fingernail polish in a few of the screw heads holding the inspection covers in place. If they charge you for a full service, the polish should be busted up where they used (in most cases a T27) their tools on the fastener to truly adjust your chain and clutch.
Rampant? You have NO idea-it's at LEAST 7 out of every 10 bikes! If you can't see it and it's not making noise, they will let it go until it becomes a problem, and then they'll tell you it's not a warranty issue and slap you with a Godless bill. These bikes are INCREDIBLY dependable-it's the so-called "techs" that are failing you.

 

That is good info.

 

That is a great idea with the nail polish... Gonna have to try that one when I got for my next service... they gave me the free services till 10k so might as well use them!

 

thanks for the info and advise!!

 

I do my own service, but I read this anyway. Does that make me a rebel? Good idea with the clear polish, but all I have is red. I like the way it looks on my toes.

 

You might want to put a hard to see mark on your oil filter as well to ensure they put a new one on.

Drew

 

Thanks for the advise could prove very useful.

 

Or just alternate between the chrome finish and black finish oil filters.

 

I agree, thanks HDF - was about to take mine for the spring cleanout and will certainly have to do that. Good advice!

 

Very good idea...even though I do most all work on mine.