Honda CRF450X 2009, Owner'S Manual & Competition Handbook

Page: 66 / 184

60
Servicing Your Honda
HONDA O/M CRF450X (Eu) 3RMEY620 00X3R-MEY-6200
Refer to Safety Precautions on page 25.
Spark Plug Recommendation
The recommended standard spark plug is
satisfactory for most racing conditions.
Use only the recommended type of spark plugs in
the recommended heat range.
Using a spark plug with an improper heat range
or incorrect reach can cause engine damage.
Using a non-resistor spark plug may cause
ignition problems.
This motorcycle uses a spark plug that has an
iridium tip in the centre electrode and a platinum
tip in the side electrode.
Be sure to observe the following when servicing
the spark plug.
• Do not clean the spark plug. If an electrode is
contaminated with accumulated objects or dirt,
replace the spark plug with a new one.
• To check the spark plug gap, use only a
“wire-type feeler gauge”. To prevent damaging
the iridium tip of the centre electrode and
platinum tip of the side electrode, never use a
“leaf-type feeler gauge’’.
• Do not adjust the spark plug gap. If the gap is
out of specification, replace the spark plug with
a new one.
NOTICE
Spark Plug
Spark Plug Inspection & Replacement
1. Remove the seat and fuel tank (pages 35, 36).
2. Disconnect the spark plug cap (1).
3. Clean any dirt from around the spark plug base.
4. Remove the spark plug (2).
(1) spark plug cap
(2) spark plug
5. Check the electrodes for wear or deposits, the
sealing gasket (3) for damage, and the
insulator for cracks. Replace if you detect
them.
6. Check the spark plug gap (4), using a wire-
type feeler gauge. If the gap is out of
specifications, replace the plug with a new
one.
The recommended spark plug gap is:
1.0 – 1.1 mm (0.039 – 0.043 in)
(3) sealing gasket
(4) spark plug gap
(3)
(4)
Standard IFR8H11 (NGK) or
VK24PRZ11 (DENSO)
Optional IFR9H11 (NGK) or
VK27PRZ11 (DENSO)
7. To obtain accurate spark plug readings,
accelerate up to speed on a straightaway. Push
the engine stop button and disengage the
clutch by pulling the lever in.
Coast to a stop, then remove and inspect the spark
plug. The porcelain insulator around the centre
electrode should appear tan or medium gray.
If you're using a new plug, ride for at least
10 minutes before taking a plug reading; a brand-
new plug will not colour initially.
If the electrodes appear burnt, or the insulator is
white or light gray (lean) or the electrodes and
insulator are black or fouled (rich), there is a
problem elsewhere.
Check the carburetor, fuel system and ignition
timing.
8. With the sealing gasket attached, thread the
spark plug in by hand to prevent cross-
threading.
9. Tighten the spark plug:
• If the old plug is good:
1/8 turn after it seats.
• If installing a new plug, tighten it twice to
prevent loosening:
a) First, tighten the plug:
NGK: 3/4 turn after it seats.
DENSO: 1/2 turn after it seats.
b) Then loosen the plug.
c) Next, tighten the plug again:
1/8 turn after it seats.
(1)
(2)