Africa round trip on a XT600E 03 - Servicing and spare parts
 

Hi everyone,

i'm planning an African round trip (Cape Town and back – down west – up east coast) on a 2003 XT600E, which means covering something like 40,000 km, sometimes in harsh conditions.

Have two questions in preparation or servicing prior to departure, and spare parts:

1) Besides the obvious servicing and what's described in the service manual, by your experience are there any specific areas, “soft spots” or parts that should be looked at and/or replaced prior to leaving?

2) Bearing in mind the weight and space restrictions what are the absolutely must take along spare parts list?

I've come up with an initial list but always good to cross check with the experts....:thumbup1:

Cheers,
RN

I think a 'k and n' washable air filter my be a good idea and wont have to carry a spare filter, I have never done this myself but dont see why it wouldnt work.

The "K&N" air filters provide very good air flow, and are good for street use, but don't filter dirt very well.
So in dusty conditions they will allow a lot of dirt into your engine causing it to wear out quickly.

Aftermarket foam type filters are a good option, but need cleaning and re-oiling, so you'll need to carry the cleaner and oil. "Pipercross" have a good reputation.

Otherwise the original paper filter can be washed in soapy water, then rinsed and dried, and no oil required. But they take at least a few hours in the sun to dry out.

Another tip is to smear grease inside the airbox which will attract a lot of dirt and prolong the period before cleaning the filter becomes necessary.
When cleaning the filter, smear the grease around inside the airbox so the dirt mixes with it and it becomes sticky again.

Bob

Good tips guys bier

Yeh the K&N is better for road and a bit of performance...will probably go with the OEM paper ones and grease...want to keep it simple :thumbup1: