Is it possible to change oil filter on a '79 KZ1000 E-1 w/o loosening or removing pipes 3&4?

Exhaust pipe # 3 is halfway over the oil filter cover. I've tried disassembling this pipe to get at the filter but it didn't work. The pipes are interconnected. It looks like I may have to also disconnect pipe # 4, as well as remove the exhaust harmonic balancer manifold that runs between all pipes (just in front of the centerstand) Does anyone have any easier suggestions short of loosening/removing the exhaust system to get at this filter? Thanks in advance!

*the bike has stock 4-into-2 exhaust system.

I have the same bike but have a MAC 4 into 2 black ceramic aftermarket system. I can change the oil without removing the 3 & 4 pipe. Why not drain the oil then loosen the bolt holding the oil filter. Can you slide that bolt ALL THE WAY OUT without bumping the pipe? If so, do that and then slide the round plate that holds the oil filter down and off... make sure you don't lose the spring and washer and then pull out the filter? If any of that stuff hits the pipe, remove the pipe, I guess. I have a shafty shop manual somewhere and could look if I found the thing.

I've got a stock ST and will confirm there is no need to fool with the exhaust in any way to change the filter.

wiredgeorge-I can easily remove the oil filter bolt completely and slide the oil filter cover off. The problem is when I can see part of the exposed filter but pipe # 3 is obstructing its path on the way out.

ronKZ650-Why do think I might have this problem with the stock KZ1000 E-1 and you aren't encountering any difficulty? Something just isn't making sense.

Thanks in advance!

is it possible that the two pipes are mounted incorrectly and are turned in too close to the engine. I know you can swing the exhaust on a 650 quite a bit side to side when the exhaust clamps are loose.

i have the same bike and same problem. i ended up pulling the bolt all the way out (which is a pain if the small rubber washer is good), then sliding the cover out of the way, then dropping the filter. cussing the whole way. getting it back together in reverse order is even more fun as its much easier to complete the assembly before screwing it in. i hope there is a better way or i may never change my filter again. my 440 is a piece of cake.