Oil and Alternator cover removal

Do I need to drain the oil to remove the alternator cover?

My clutch hose has developed a leak and in order to change it I have to remove the alternator cover. The book says I need to drain it, but it is also talking about taking the side cover off, so I wasn't sure if I am only removing the alternator cover if I need to drain the oil.

I just changed it 3 rides ago. I know I can reuse it, but if I don't have to drain it, that would be even better.

Thanks,

Rich

PhishHead61

Yep, ya gotta either drain it or put a pan under it and catch the oil that will come gushing out when ya crack the seal on the cover... I did open one of mine up one time while out CTFW and laid it down on its right side first without draining the oil and it worked pretty good. Easiest to just drain it though as long as your working in luxury IMHO.

I must be missing something, or the 2nd gen is different from he 1st gen. I remember taking off the metal line and the rubber line off my 83 and all I had to take off was my middle gear cover.

Randy