Well, that was hell, but it wasn't the worst thing I've had to do (getting a stuck rear-axle out takes the cake). After abandoning the "force and pry" tactic and resorting to the penny method, it created a much easier job. I don't know any other way that this could have gone on with a chain installed.
The job begins. I've been using this waterproof grease for about everything both for lubrication and to keep parts from rusting. You can find it at any Honda shop. Lubing the main stand axle is probably a really good idea.
Showing a good pry location for loading pennies in. Switch the spring around and repeat to the other side. Unlike what the picture shows, start loading the inside of the spring first.
Take it over to a vice, and tighten the pennies in to give you more length in the spring.
When you're just a hair away, use some pliers and some force to complete the job. Damn.
Finished. Move the center stand down and remove the pennies using a rotating motion with pliers.
I bet she's really happy to have a restored pair of feet.
Taillight assembly restoration complete. I went with two stainless allen bolts. Thinking about putting two more on the bottom, but that may be overkill. I suppose if there's flapping and what not, then all four corners should be secure?
