It turned out to be pretty simple once I managed to get my carcass wedged between the clutch and seat frame.
I had accidentally moved the tank sending wire to the ammeter post next to it. As a result I had a 2 watt leak. since the tank was almost full I did not question the fuel gauge, which rests at zero and goes to full tank when powered up. As the float falls resistance in the unit decreases, allowing more current to flow, and pulling the needle downward.
If it aint one thing it's another!
