2008 XL1000 Front sprocket cover removal

[varatastic]

Hi. Im going to change my front sprocket back to the original 16 tooth. The previous owner changed it to a 15 but I feel it needs more top end speed at less revs. I have it. It came with the bike. I have done this many times on dirt bikes which is easy but when I went to do it on my Vara I noticed the cover also includes the clutch pull mechanism. If I disconnect the clutch cable and pull the cover off are springs and stuff going to fly everywhere? Any help appreciated.

[zebulon]

-disconnect clutch cable of the link
-remove the cover by removing the 4 screws

and no problem 

[varatastic]

Thanks so much for that. I just wasn't sure what was going to let go behind the cover when I pulled it off. I had visions of things flying everywhere.

[superfunkomatic]

The shift mechanism for the clutch is obviously a wire and connects to a simple slide and turn axle/pivot point. Inside is a little chamfered rod that pushes in the clutch to change gears - it's remarkably simple and clever. Pretty easy to put back together.

[Bønne]

A good advice is that before mounting the cover again, clean the engine and the inside of the cover. Time will fill it up with old chain grease and dirt, which can affect the operation of the clutch, as it builds up around the pushrod. When clean, fill the space around the pushrod with ordinary bearing grease, this will prevent dirt and chain grease to build up again.