Dyeing the vinyl and 100 other projects

[Drop a gear]

Getting underway with trying to make my ‘95 look a little newer. Job #1 was spraying the brown-ish vinyl and nice black. Still waiting for everything to dry and cure before installation. Given the PITA that taking the bike apart, I figured I’d change fuel filter, air filter, small ride side solenoid filter (what the heck that’s for, I don’t know) and soon the cruise control filter. I honestly thought this was a GW joke like ‘blinker fluid’ until I looked it up in the DIY section.
Replaced all 4 speakers, fixed the helmet lock brackets, the trunk and saddlebag locking mechanism. Geez, this thing is definitely a project bike.
Have timing belts and WingAdmin’s relays to be done after I wire in the battery tender plug, Ciro wireless charger for phone and voltmeter.
Be honest, are timing belts something a rookie like me can do on my own or should I leave it to the pros. Bike is mostly apart, I have them but I’m not sure I can do it even after the DIY instructions and YouTube. Thoughts?

[Andy Cote]

Don't let those belts intimidate you. Take your time and follow the directions and you'll feel good about a job well done. I will say this is a job to start fresh, first thing in the morning. If you plan on taking a day, you'll be in for lunch. But if you try to rush it, like after work or when you have a few spare moments, something will go wrong and you could get frustrated.

BTW. Job is easier with lower cooling hose disconnected. Can be done otherwise but it's a great excuse to change the coolant.

[newday777]

Yes the belts are intimidating to the novice but doable. Triple check the timing marks. Pull the spark plugs so you can turn the motor easier(good time to replace the plugs too).

[minimac]

If you can follow the directions and know the difference between a hammer and a screwdriver, you can do it. It's really that simple!