Thanks to all the posts regarding the 1330 HCM Filter change and to the great links and videos included in this thread, I just finished the wifes 15 RT-S service at 31,300 miles (a little late) but still quicker than waiting on an appt at the dealer and much cheaper thanks to BajaRon and his filters/brakes/gasket kits etc. I called Ron last week for the filters and while we were talking I was reminded that the rear brake pads were getting thin as well, so I had Ron throw a complete set of sintered pads in the box while he was at it. The box was sitting on the doorstep Monday. Thanks Ron.
Over the weekend, I also got another look at the rear tire and although it only had 18,800 miles on the Kumho, it was starting to show some bare spots, so while I was at it and the wife was soaked from her commute home in the rain last eve, I suggested she drive the car today, and I would get after the HCM change and see what else I could get done while it was parked.
Pulled the tupperware, drained all oil, and pulled the old HCM filter off last evening, and cleaned and installed the new HCM filter last evening while it was cool and put 5 qts oil back in and called it good til this morning. No skinned nuckles and all was good. This morning I noticed how much oil was laying in the sub frame area, and next time I'll sacrifice a towel or box of rags like Doc and CBredneck mentioned. After rolling it outside I gave it a quick underbody spray and rinse cleaning and noticed how much oil was flushed out of who know where.
Then since I had the bike for the day, I pulled the rear wheel and removed the rotor to avoid any damage when I took the wheel and my stored Kumho down to the tire shop to get it mounted. They had it mounted and ready in less than an hour and after picking up some groceries on the way home, I was back and ready to install the new brake pads and wheel with new tire. I had done a quick brush and spray of the brake caliper, and checked the rear air bag for any debris while things were clear, so the pad install with anti-squeal lube on the backings was easy. The toughest part was getting the axle back in (and even after five times practice) still is the biggest workout for me. Maybe I'll get the hang of it one day. Bearings and spacers looked good, so just a quick clean and light lube, and everything was back in place and time for a nap til later this afternoon. Finished checking torque, and reinstall the Tupperware, and a road check, and the bike is ready for the morning commute. Probably 6-8 hours of leasurely work time, but I know the condition of every part I touched and looked at an now the bike is roadworthy again while saving a few bucks.... thanks to SpyderLovers posters for making this possible and enjoyable!!