Anyone....can the shifter seal be replaced without splitting the crank cover and dismantling the clutch to remove the shifter rod? Mine weeps when on the side stand, and the seal appears to be on the outside (on the stator side of the bike). Any input would be helpful (even humourous help - after all, we're supposed to be enjoying these things), as the Clymer doesn't go into enough detail on this issue.

I believe it can, im not up on the dt, but you should be able to slide out the shift shaft by removing side case, then pry out the old and put in new, maybe someone else would chime in on this to double check.