So, I finally decided it was time to give my Tiger 800 a bit of attention. The air filter, specifically. Heard it could be a bit of a job, but figured, how hard could it really be? Decided to tackle it myself one Saturday morning.
Getting Started
First thing was getting the seat off, easy enough. Then came the tank. Now, I’d read online you gotta be careful with the fuel lines and electrical connectors under there. Started loosening the bolts holding the tank down. Took my time, didn’t want to scratch anything. Propped the back of the tank up with a block of wood like some folks suggested.
Disconnecting the fuel line was a bit fiddly. Had to press those little tabs just right. Same with the electrical plugs. Always makes me nervous messing with fuel lines, but got them off without spilling much. Then lifted the whole tank off and set it aside carefully on some old towels.
The Actual Job
With the tank gone, I could finally see the airbox. Looked straightforward enough. Just a bunch of screws holding the lid on. Started undoing them, putting them in a little magnetic tray so I wouldn’t lose any. That tray’s been a lifesaver more times than I can count.
Lifted the airbox lid off, and there it was. Pulled the old filter out. Man, it was pretty dirty. Definitely needed changing. Glad I decided to do it. Looked like it had sucked up half the dust from the last road trip.
Grabbed the new filter. Made sure it was seated correctly in the airbox. Sometimes they don’t want to sit quite right, you know? Pushed it down firmly all around the edges. Seemed okay.
Putting the lid back on was simple, just lined it up and put all the screws back in. Tightened them down gently in a criss-cross pattern, just to be sure it sealed properly.
Putting it Back Together
Now for the reverse. Carefully lifted the tank back onto the frame. Reconnected the electrical plugs first – they usually only fit one way, which helps. Then the fuel line. Pushed it on until it clicked. Gave it a little tug to make sure it was secure. Double-checked that connection, definitely didn’t want any leaks.
Lowered the tank back down and put the mounting bolts back in. Tightened them up. Put the seat back on, clicked right into place.
Stood back for a second. Looked okay. Turned the key, let the fuel pump prime. Hit the starter. Fired right up. Let it idle for a bit, listening. Sounded good, maybe even a little smoother, but that could just be me imagining things.
Felt pretty good, doing it myself. Saved a bit of cash, and now I know exactly how it comes apart and goes back together. Took maybe an hour and a half, taking my time. Not too bad at all for a weekend morning’s work on the old Tiger.
