Mike, if ya have to take off the right side, its no big deal at all.

1. Remove water pump cover and impeller. Save the gasket. Five minutes max
2. Disconnect clutch cable at clutch cover and make sure lever is pointing toward the back of the bike, do not touch lever and shaft during the entire job.
3. Remove right side cover, footpeg can stay unless ya put on the kickstarter. Save the gasket.
4. Find lost zip tie.
5. Installation is reverse of removal. Unless you broke one of the two gaskets during removal, you can reuse them, put black rtv silicon on both sides and use a torque wrench during reassemble.
6. Have a beer. Total time 45 min max.

 

Thanks FM,you make it sound so easy ... but I guess that means no kick-starter, oh well.

I'll tackle this tomorrow and let you know how I make out. As with most of these things, getting started is the hardest part. I guess that's why Nike's motto is "Just Do It!"

 

That sucks man.... good luck.

 

I just re-read my post and I forgot a couple points. The rear brake lever needs to be removed and the oil filter....I think. Here's a pic right after I removed my right side, notice the springs hanging for the rear brake and such ..... including the bracket for the clutch cable. Be careful removing the main large gasket...... I saved mine....justbe careful itfairly tough.

 

Great pic ... it answers some questions that I had (e.g. Does the water pump impeller need to be removed? Yes.)

I just checked with my local dealer, and he has all 3 gaskets in stock, so I'll have them if I need them.
Just for fun, I asked about the kick-starter option, and it was over $400 Cdn., so that's not gonna happen. (Does anyone carry jumper cables?)

Any recommendations for replacement coolant?