Honda CRF450R 2020, Owner'S Manual & Competition Handbook

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General Competition Maintenance
28
Servicing Your Honda
Spark Plug
Some non-resistor plugs may cause ignition problems.
Refer to the recommendations elsewhere in this manual for
specific types so you will be sure to use the proper reach and
heat range. Replace periodically as specified in the
Maintenance Schedule (pages 25, 26).
Spark Plug Cap
Install a small plastic wire band around the spark plug cap to
reduce any possibility of it loosening or of water penetration.
Air Cleaner
Clean and oil your air cleaner regularly because the volume
of air able to pass through it has a great effect on
performance. Both engine performance and long term
durability may be affected by an air cleaner that has
deteriorated and allows dirt to pass. Inspect the air cleaner
closely each time it’s serviced for evidence of small tears or
seam separation. Keep a spare air cleaner oiled and ready to
install, sealed in a plastic bag. Riding in dusty conditions
may require servicing the air cleaner or replacing it with a
pre-serviced air cleaner between races (CRF450RX)/motos
(CRF450R/RWE). Be careful not to over oil the air cleaner.
While it is important to oil the air cleaner thoroughly, over
oiling will cause an overall rich running condition, probably
more noticeable off idle and in low rpm performance. Follow
the servicing instructions in the Maintenance section. Use
Pro Honda Foam Air Filter Oil or an equivalent. Be sure to
grease the air cleaner flange where it contacts the air cleaner
housing. Pro Honda Foam Air Filter Sealer or an equivalent
is handy for this because any dirt that penetrates this sealing
area will show up clearly (page 67).
Use the Honda Genuine air cleaner or an equivalent air
cleaner specified for your model.
Using the wrong Honda air cleaner or a non-Honda air
cleaner which is not of equivalent quality may cause
premature engine wear or performance problems.
Engine Oil and Filter
Drain and replace engine oil often to ensure the greatest
service life of the piston, cylinder, crankshaft, transmission
and clutch.
Also replace engine oil filter often to ensure the greatest
service life. Frequent changes will also assure consistent
performance of power, response, both shifting and clutch
action (page 63).