Ok, does anyone have a good way of getting the subframe off without the special tool? I just got one off ebay for $5 bucks ($30 shipped) to replace my slightly bent one. (had to throw that in to brag a little) If it matters mine is a 95.

 

I just changed mine out as well and there were no special tools, just an 8mm hex key/allen wrench for the four bolts holding it to the frame. Easy...

The only tight spot was getting the fender unit out of place, but I just let it rest on the rear tire and then re-installed it after the new sub-frame went in. Obviously you'll have to unscrew the R/R----blah, blah, blah---I'm sure you know how to do it.

 

So that special bolt does not pose a problem? what do you mean by R/R?

 

Nope, just four hex bolts holding the subframe to the frame...you'll need another socket wrench or crescent wrench to hold the nut that's on the inside while you unscrew the bolt but that's it. I know what you're talking about, on the top right bolt there's a 'lock nut' but it won't prevent you from unscrewing the bolt. I'm still working on cutting an old socket to fit that one and the one on the swingarm pivot bolt, just so I know they'll be the right torque but it's not a big deal. The R/R is the regulator/rectifier that so many people have been referring to lately, it's that little black box that's screwed to the outside of the subframe on the right-hand side (not to be confused with the spark unit, or CDI, that rests under the seat).

Disconnect and remove the battery, take all your rear plastics off, including tail-light, seat, footpegs, etc., disconnect the rear lighting harness, unscrew the band holding the rear shock's reservoir to the fender on the left, disconnect the little wire-harness behind where the battery goes, unscrew the R/R from the subframe and anything else that's in the way of separating the subframe from the fender. It was easier to undo the four bolts at this point because then there was enough room to maneuver the fender piece down out of the way while holding onto the loose subframe. Not too hard, really, if you have the time. Good find on the 5$ part! The only thing better than that I found was a 97 swingarm with less than 5k miles for $26.00 and a completely clean 97 steering stem including both clamps for $10. Sometimes ebay really kicks ***.

 

Oh yeah, Ebay is a poor man's friend. Thanks for the tips.

 

Yep, no tool needed!

 

Sweet. Now I just have to wait till it gets here and I'll be set. Then I can modify the other one to make it a single seater shorty tail.