I was able to do this today in about ten minutes and with only pulling a single panel off the bike (no fairing removal). I know there is a plug you can buy for this, but this works just as well.
I am getting a dyno tune next week and the shop recommended I do this first.
Info on the bike;
2009 ZX14
Schnitz racing ECU flash
PC5/AutoTune
completely gutted cats with slip-ons
BMC air filter
This will be easier if you don't have big dumb hands like me, but with this panel off you can pull the vacuum hose from the air box and pull it towards you enough to do the job. You DO NOT have to cut or square off the vacuum hose as it is going right back where and how you found it.
I checked my junk drawer and had a bunch of rubber paintballs that were a great fit. I used a small amount of dish soap to ease pushing it down about 6 inches into the hose.
After getting the ball where I wanted it I added a hose clamp to either side. I doubt much pressure goes through that hose but I wanted to make sure I didn't end up with a rubber ball in my air box or somewhere else. Then you just maneuver the vacuum hose back up into the air box.
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Let me tell you this made a WORLD of difference IMMEDIATELY. I would estimate my backfiring was reduced by 90%. After my test ride I only backfired once on the highway (minimal) and absolutely none in town. Over time I have adjusted my clutching and shifting to avoid the popping, I went all over town clutching and downshifting and not once did my exhaust backfire.
Hope this helps someone. Different year bikes may vary, but I highly recommend it and it is easily reversible if you don't experience similar results.
* Last updated by: projo198 on 6/4/2019 @ 8:44 PM *