I'm trying to figure out how all these fairing removers managed to get their headlights out of adjustment by changing a light bulb according to the service manual (page 8-23 on the '06 manual).

The only thing I can figure out is that they can't tell the difference between the three screws that remove the retaining ring that holds the light in place, and the two screws that actually adjust the light. Those two screws don't need to be touched, and if the light is properly seated when put back together, the alignment will be retained.

Doing it "by the book" also gives you and excellent chance to clean all the bugs and road grime out from around the headlight, and even give the headlight a bath if it's fogged over on the inside.

 

whoever told you to remove the outer fairing to replace the headlight bulb is dumber than an onion. all you do is remove the chrome trim ring. after removing the chrome trim ring, you'll see three screws which retain the headlight in the housing. unscrew these three screws enough to rotate the retainer ring counterclockwise and there is a larger opening at the end of each of the three slots. remove the headlight retaining ring and your headlight will fall out on its own. be sure to do this while you have a towel or blanket covering your front fender so you don't damage the fender or paint. then you just replace the bulb. it's a whole lot simpler than it might think. absolutely no need to pull the fairing. by the way, keep a hand on the lens of the headlight so that when you get the ring loose so you don't drop it.

 

One other thing to remember...When you are ready to replace the new bulb...DO NOT touch the glass part of the bulb with your fingers as the bulb will have a short life...It is usually a good idea to clean the bulb with alcohol before installing.

 

Plus 1 - a pair of old socks over the passin' lamps and you're set - my

 

If you remove the fairing; you just might want to have a couple of extra "fairing screws" available.
The lower inner screws are easily dropped and the motorcycle has a hugh appetite for them - meaning when you drop them they are lost forever.
One other thing - PATIENCE is required when taking the fairing off and putting it on. Twists and turns are indeed necessary.

Ride In Peace

 

 

save that center bolt for last, you can loosen it and remove the screen and other bolts. but when ya pull that last bolt that fairing will drop on ya so cradle it with a free hand unhook the headlight harness and it will be free.

 

Is there a video on how to remove the fairing?

 

RTFM or Google utube?