2000 Nevada Air Filter

[hooter]

Bought a year 2000 Nevada. Have dropped the bars and removed the windscreen and it gives a great ride. Problem. The air filter is inaccessable. Remove seat and tank, remove plastic/chrome air scoops, battery and left side carby....still can't separate the housing box enough to get the filter out.
This is design insanity!!
Has anyone encountered the same problem.?
If so can you please share the solution.

Had 4 suggestions
1: Remove a cylinder (bullshit..should not have to go to that extreme)
2: Support engine. Undo frame bolts and hoist the front end up enough to get in. (Again too much effort for a regular spot of servicing.)
3: Put pod filters on.( not bad but want to avoid carby issues)
4: Gently hacksaw top from filter housing, put rubber around edges to seal, hold in place with rubber tie downs. ( This idea has merit. A bit of effort first time but there after a 10 minute job)

[guzzisteve]

What airbox do you have, early Nevada's had a top come off, held together w/rubber bands. Similar to the late 80's 650's.

[hooter]

It is a long airbox that does split down the length and is held together with rubber bands.
However, even with the bands off it is impossible to get the top half clear enough to get the filter out and a new one back in.
The owners manual suggests taking the bike to the shop, but I like to think that it should be easy enough to do at home.