Motorcycle Repair: dropped metal object down dip-stick hole!, needle nose pliers, honda shadow spirit

Question
Hi Michael,
I haven't even had my new, used, 2000 Honda Shadow Spirit VT1100 a week yet and I can't beleive that I accidently dropped a 2 inch long, metal (don't know whether it's steel or aluminum), hollow needle that I was using along with a "turkey syringe" to try and suck out some excess oil, down the dip-stick hole.  It accidently slipped off the tip of the plastic syringe.  How do I remove this?  Will it possibly get to the oil filter hole, (to drain the oil on this model, filter serves as plug)?  Do I need to open the case?  Can I do this myself?  How much do you think my dealer would charge me to come out and pick up my bike, bring it back to their shop, and remove the needle?  Oh, of course I haven't started the cycle since dropping the needle.

Any suggestions would be appreciated,
Thanks,
Mark

Answer
Mark,
 I don't believe there is an oil "pan" on this model, the sump is just at the bottom of the case and there is a drain plug.  I'm assuming the needle is stainless steel and while most grades of stainless steel are non-magnetic you may be able to attract it with a strong one.  Test another one of those needles w/ a magnet.  If succesful you may be able to retrieve the needle through the drain hole.  Remove the plug and drain oil.  Purchase a telescoping magnetic wand from an auto parts store/hardware store, about $5.  This looks like a silver pen w/ a small powerfull magnet on one end thet extends out.  Make sure the magnet and rod will fit through the drain hole.  Extend the magnet and bend the wand (you'll have to damage it for this) at a 90 degree angle about 3-4 inhes from then end.  Insert the wand end into the hole and fish around for the needle.  You'll only need to drag it near the hole so you can pull it through w/ a pair of needle nose pliers.  You may also try to do this through the top filler hole if the gears are not in the way.  The gears are steel and will attract the magnet but not the magnesium case it self.  Splitting the case is a MAJOR job and expense and if the mechanic is sloppy, there are a number of things that can go wrong.

Good luck and let me know what happens.

Mike