YAMAHA YZ450F 2014 Owners Manual
Page 91 of 360
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS
3-3
NUT (ROTOR)
RetightenCheck for tightening torques.
EXHAUST PIPE, SI-
LENCER, PROTEC-
TOR
Inspect and re-
tighten
Check for exhaust leaks, and 
tightening torques.
Clean
Replace fiver*
* When the exhaust sound be-
comes louder or when a per-
formance drop is felt.
CRANKSHAFT
Inspect and clean
THROTTLE BODY
Inspect
AIR FILTER
Clean and lubri-
cate
Use foam air-filter oil or equiv-
alent oil.
Replace
SPARK PLUG
Inspect and cleanCheck the electrodes and the 
terminals for wear.
Replace
COOLING SYSTEM
Check coolant lev-
el and leakage
Check radiator cap 
operationUse the radiator cap tester for 
a checkup.
Check radiator cap 
attached
Change the cool-
ant
Every two years
Inspect hoses
ENGINE GUARD
ReplaceBreakage
FRAME
Clean and inspect
ITEMAfter 
break-
inEvery 
race 
(about 
2.5 
hours)Every 
third 
(about 
7.5 
hours)Every 
fifth 
(about 
12.5 
hours)As re-
quiredRemarks 
Page 92 of 360
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS
3-4
FUEL TANK, FUEL 
PUMP
Inspect
FUEL HOSE
Inspect
ReplaceEvery four years
FRONT FORK LEG 
(S)
CleanDust seal
Inspect and adjust
Replace oil
Replace oil seal
Clean and grease 
oil seals and dust 
sealsLithium soap base grease
PROTECTOR 
GUIDE
Replace
REAR SHOCK AB-
SORBER
Inspect and adjust
Lubricate
(After 
rain 
ride)
Grease pillow balls and bear-
ings.
RetightenCheck for tightening torques.
BRAKE(S)
Adjust lever posi-
tion and pedal 
height
Lubricate pivot 
point
Check brake disc 
surface
Check fluid level 
and leakage
Retighten brake 
disc bolts, caliper 
bolts, master cylin
-
der bolts and union 
bolts
Check for tightening torques.
Replace pads
ITEMAfter 
break-
inEvery 
race 
(about 
2.5 
hours)Every 
third 
(about 
7.5 
hours)Every 
fifth 
(about 
12.5 
hours)As re-
quiredRemarks 
Page 93 of 360
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS
3-5
Replace brake flu-
id
Every one year
SWINGARM
Inspect, lube and 
retightenMolybdenum disulfide grease
RELAY ARM, CON-
NECTING ROD
Inspect, lube and 
retightenMolybdenum disulfide grease
STEERING HEAD
Inspect free play 
and retightenCheck for tightening torques.
Clean and lubeAfter rain ride
Replace bearings
TIRE, WHEELS
Inspect air pres-
sure, wheel run-
out, tire wear and 
spoke looseness
Retighten sprocket 
bolt
Check the bearing
Replace bearings
LubricateLithium soap base grease
DRIVE CHAINUse chain oil.
Clean, lubricate, 
slack, alignment
Replace
DRIVE CHAIN 
GUIDE
InspectInspect wear.
DRIVE CHAIN 
GUIDE AND DRIVE 
CHAIN SUPPORT
Replace
CABLES
Routing (Connec-
tion)
Check and grease
Check and clean 
throttle cableCheck throttle cables on the 
throttle body for dirt and wear.
ITEMAfter 
break-
inEvery 
race 
(about 
2.5 
hours)Every 
third 
(about 
7.5 
hours)Every 
fifth 
(about 
12.5 
hours)As re-
quiredRemarks 
Page 94 of 360
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS
3-6
LEVERS
Adjust clutch lever 
free play
KICKSTARTER LE-
VER, BRAKE PED-
AL, FOOTREST
Lubricate
OUTSIDE NUTS 
AND BOLTS
RetightenRefer to “TORQUE-CHECK 
POINTS” on page 1-25.
ITEMAfter 
break-
inEvery 
race 
(about 
2.5 
hours)Every 
third 
(about 
7.5 
hours)Every 
fifth 
(about 
12.5 
hours)As re-
quiredRemarks 
Page 95 of 360
PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
3-7
EAS1SL1067
PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Before riding for break-in operation, practice or a race, make sure the machine is in good operating 
condition.
Before using this machine, check the following points.
EAS1SL1068GENERAL INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
TIP
Perform usual maintenance enough so that, in the race course, a confirmation of that and simple set-
ting adjustments may only be left, in order to get enough time to use effectively.
ITEMinspectPage
CoolantCheck that coolant is filled up to the radiator cap.
Check the cooling system for leakage.3-8 – 10
FuelCheck that a fresh gasoline is filled in the fuel tank.
Check the fuel line for leakage.1-22
Engine oilCheck that the oil level is correct. Check the crank-
case and oil line for leakage.3-14 – 16
Gear shifter and clutchCheck that gears can be shifted correctly in order and 
that the clutch operates smoothly.3-10 – 11
Throttle grip/Housing
Check that the throttle grip operation and free play 
are correctly adjusted. Lubricate the throttle grip and 
housing, if necessary.
3-11 – 12
BrakesCheck the play of front brake and effect of front and 
rear brake.3-21 – 27
Drive chainCheck drive chain slack and alignment. Check that 
the drive chain is lubricated properly.3-27
4-64 – 65
WheelsCheck for excessive wear and tire pressure. Check 
for loose spokes and have no excessive play.3-32 – 33
SteeringCheck that the handlebar can be turned smoothly and 
have no excessive play.3-33 – 34
Front forks and rear 
shock absorberCheck that they operate smoothly and there is no oil 
leakage.3-28 – 32
Cables (wires)
Check that the clutch and throttle cables move 
smoothly. Check that they are not caught when the 
handlebars are turned or when the front forks travel 
up and down.
—
Exhaust pipeCheck that the exhaust pipe is tightly mounted and 
has no cracks.3-13 – 14
Rear wheel sprocketCheck that the rear wheel sprocket tightening bolt is 
not loose.4-8 – 9
LubricationCheck for smooth operation. Lubricate if necessary. 3-12 , 3-34
Bolts and nutsCheck the chassis and engine for loose bolts and 
nuts.1-25 – 26
Lead connectorsCheck that the AC magneto, ECU and ignition coil are 
connected tightly.1-12 – 14
Settings
Is the machine set suitably for the condition of the rac-
ing course and weather or by taking into account the 
results of test runs before racing? Are inspection and 
maintenance completely done?10-1 – 8 
Page 96 of 360
ENGINE
3-8
EAS1SL1069
ENGINE
EAS1SL1070CHECKING THE COOLANT LEVELEWA1DX1003
WARNING
If coolant seems hot, do not remove the ra-
diator cap.
1. Stand the vehicle upright on a level surface.
2. Remove:
• Radiator cap “1”
3. Check:
• Coolant level
Maximum level “a” or below  Add coolant 
up to the maximum level.
ECA1DX1004
NOTICE
• Adding water instead of coolant lowers the 
antifreeze content. If, therefore, water is 
used instead of coolant, check, and if nec
-
essary, adjust the antifreeze concentra-
tion.
• Use only distilled water. However, if dis-
tilled water is not available, soft water may 
be used.
4. Start the engine, warm this up for several 
minutes, and then stop it.
5. Check:
• Coolant level
TIP
Before checking the coolant level, wait a few 
minutes until the coolant has settled.
EAS1SL1071CHECKING THE COOLING SYSTEM
1. Remove:
• Seat
• Side cover (left/right)
• Air scoop (left/right)
Refer to “GENERAL CHASSIS” on page 4-
1.
• Air filter case cover
Refer to “THROTTLE BODY” on page 7-5.
2. Check:
•RADIATOR
• Radiator hoses
Crack/damage  Replace.
Refer to “RADIATOR” on page 6-1.
3. Install:
• Air filter case cover
Refer to “THROTTLE BODY” on page 7-5.
• Air scoop (left/right)
• Seat
• Side cover (left/right)
Refer to “GENERAL CHASSIS” on page 4-
1.
EAS1SL1072CHANGING THE COOLANTEWA1DX1004
WARNING
If coolant seems hot, do not remove the ra-
diator cap.
1. Place a container under the engine.
2. Remove:
• Coolant drain bolt “1”
3. Remove:
• Radiator cap
Slowly loosen the radiator cap to drain cool-
ant.
TIP
When the radiator cap is loosened, coolant will 
gush out transversely; therefore, bring the con
-
tainer near to the outlet.
4. Thoroughly flush the cooling system with 
clean tap water.
1. Radiator
1 
Page 97 of 360
ENGINE
3-9
5. Install:
• Copper washers 
• Coolant drain bolt
6. Pour coolant.
EWA13040
WARNING
• If coolant splashes in your eyes, thorough-
ly wash them with water and consult a 
doctor.
• If coolant splashes on your clothes, quick-
ly wash it away with water and then with 
soap and water.
• If coolant is swallowed, induce vomiting 
and get immediate medical attention.
ECA13480
NOTICE
• Adding water instead of coolant lowers the 
antifreeze content. If, therefore, water is 
used instead of coolant, check, and if nec
-
essary, adjust the antifreeze concentra-
tion.
• Use only distilled water. However, if dis-
tilled water is not available, soft water may 
be used.
• If coolant comes into contact with painted 
surfaces, immediately wash them with wa
-
ter.
• Do not mix different types of coolant.
7. Install:
• Radiator cap
8. Start the engine, warm this up for several 
minutes, stop it, and then wait for it to cool 
down.
9. Check:
• Coolant level
Refer to “CHECKING THE COOLANT LEV-
EL” on page 3-8.
EAS1SL1073CHECKING THE RADIATOR CAP
1. Check:
• Seal (radiator cap) “1”
• Valve and valve seat “2”
Crack/damage  Replace.
Exist fur deposits  Clean or replace.
EAS1SL1074CHECKING THE RADIATOR CAP OPENING 
PRESSURE
1. Check:
• Radiator cap opening pressure
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
a. Install the radiator cap tester adapter “2” and 
the radiator cap tester “3” to the radiator cap 
“1,” and activate the tester to check whether 
it can stay for 5 to 10 seconds within stan
-
dard pressure values.
TIP
Before attaching the cap to the tester, apply 
water to its sealing surface.
No stay  Replace.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
EAS1SL1075
Coolant drain bolt
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
Recommended coolant
High quality ethylene glycol 
anti-freeze containing anti-cor
-
rosion for aluminum engine
Coolant level
1.04 L (1.10 US qt, 0.92 Imp.qt)
Coolant mixing ratio
1:1 (Coolant:Water)
New
T R..
Radiator cap opening pressure
108–137 kPa (1.08–1.37 kg/cm2, 
15.7–19.9 psi)
Radiator cap tester
90890-01325
Mityvac cooling system tester kit
YU-24460-A
Radiator cap tester adapter
90890-01352
Pressure tester adapter
YU-33984 
Page 98 of 360
ENGINE
3-10
CHECKING THE COOLANT CIRCULATORY 
SYSTEM FOR LEAKS
1. Check:
• Coolant level
2. Install:
• Radiator cap tester “1”
• Adapter “2”
3. Activate the tester to apply the test pressure.
ECA@
NOTICE
• Do not apply such a high pressure as ex-
ceeds the test pressure.
• Make sure that a checkup after the cylin-
der head gasket is replaced is made after 2 
to 3 minutes of warm-up.
• Make sure that coolant is filled up to the 
upper level beforehand.
4. Check:
• Pressure value
No stay for 5 to 10 seconds at the test pres-
sure value  Correct.
• Radiator
• Radiator hose connections
Coolant leaks  Correct or replace.
• Radiator hoses
Bulges  ReplaceEWA@
WARNING
When the radiator cap tester is removed, 
coolant will spout; therefore, cover it with a 
cloth beforehand.
EAS1SL1076ADJUSTING THE CLUTCH LEVER POSI-
TION
1. Adjust:
• Clutch lever position “a” 
Loosen the locknut “1” and use the adjuster 
“2” to adjust the clutch lever position “a” as 
desired.
2. Tighten:
• Locknut
EAS1SL1077ADJUSTING THE CLUTCH LEVER FREE 
PLAY
1. Check:
• Clutch lever free play “a”
Out of specification  Regulate.
2. Adjust:
• Clutch lever free play
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
Handlebar side
a. Turn the adjuster “1” in direction “a” or “b” 
until the specified clutch lever free play is ob
-
tained.
Radiator cap tester
90890-01325
Mityvac cooling system tester kit
YU-24460-A
Radiator cap tester adapter
90890-01352
Pressure tester adapter
YU-33984
Test pressure value
196 kPa (1.96 kg/cm2, 27.9 psi)
Locknut
4.8 Nm (0.48 m·kgf, 3.5 ft·lbf)
Clutch lever free play
7.0–12.0 mm (0.28–0.47 in)
Direction “a”
Clutch lever free play is increased.
Direction “b”
Clutch lever free play is decreased.
1
2
a
T R.. 
Page 99 of 360
ENGINE
3-11
TIP
If the clutch lever free play cannot be obtained 
on the handlebar side, use the adjuster on the 
clutch cable side.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
Clutch cable side
a. Slide the clutch cable cover.
b. Loosen the locknut “1.”
c. Turn the adjuster “2” in direction “a” or “b” 
until the specified clutch lever free play is ob
-
tained.
d. Tighten the locknut “1.”
e. Return the clutch cable cover to its original 
position.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
EAS1SL1078
ADJUSTING THE THROTTLE GRIP FREE 
PLAY
TIP
Prior to adjusting throttle grip free play, the en-
gine idling speed should be adjusted.
1. Check:
• Throttle grip free play “a”
Out of specification  Regulate.
2. Adjust:
• Throttle grip free play
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
a. Loosen the locknut “1”.
b. Turn the adjuster “2” until the specified free 
play is obtained.
c. Tighten the locknut.EWA33DD008
WARNING
After adjusting the throttle grip free play, 
turn the handlebar to the right and to the left 
to ensure that this does not cause the en
-
gine idling speed to change.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
EAS1SL1079
Direction “a”
Clutch lever free play is increased.
Direction “b”
Clutch lever free play is decreased.
Locknut
4.3 Nm (0.43 m·kgf, 3.1 ft·lbf)
a b
1
T R..
1a
b
2
b
Throttle grip free play
3.0–5.0 mm (0.12–0.20 in)
Direction “a”
Throttle grip free play is increased.
Direction “b”
Throttle grip free play is decreased.
1 2
b
a 
Page 100 of 360
ENGINE
3-12
LUBRICATING THE THROTTLE CABLE
1. Remove:• Cover (throttle cable cap) “1”
• Cover (grip cap) “2”
• Throttle grip cap “3”
2. Lubricate: • Throttle cable end “a” 
3. Install: • Throttle grip cap
• Screw (throttle grip cap)
4. Install: • Cover (grip cap)
• Cover (throttle cable cap)
EWA
WARNING
Check that the throttle grip moves smooth-
ly. If this does not move smoothly, correct 
the installed positions.
EAS1SL1080CLEANING THE AIR FILTER ELEMENT
1. Remove:• Fuel tank cap cover “1”Refer to “FUEL TANK CAP” on page 1-21.
• Air filter case cover “2” 2. Remove:
• Air filter mounting bolt “1”
• Air filter element “2”
• Air filter guide “3” (from the air filter element)
3. Wash: • Air filter element
EWA
WARNING
Do not use gasoline or organic (acid/alka-
line) volatile oil for washing.
TIP
After washing the element with air filter cleaner 
or kerosene, squeeze and dry it completely.
ECA33DD016
NOTICE
Do not twist the element when squeezing 
the element.
Recommended lubricant
Lithium-soap-based grease
Screw (throttle grip cap) 3.8 Nm (0.38 m·kgf, 2.8 ft·lbf)
T R..
1
2
13
2