Honda CRF450X, Owner'S Manual

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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 27, 28).
Spark Plug Cap
Install a small plastic tie-wrap around the spark plug cap to
reduce any possibility of it loosening or of water
penetration.
Engine Oil and Filter
Drain and replace engine oil often to ensure the greatest
service life of the piston, cylinder and crankshaft.
Also replace engine oil filter often to ensure the greatest
service life. Frequent changes will also assure consistent
performance of power and response (page 44).
Transmission Oil
Drain and replace transmission oil often to ensure the
greatest service life of the transmission and clutch. Frequent
changes will also assure consistent performance of both
shifting and clutch action (page 47). Air Cleaner Housing Sealing
Remove and reseal the air cleaner connecting boot where it
connects to the air cleaner housing with silicone sealer if
there is any doubt to its sealing integrity. Inspect the air
cleaner and air intake tract regularly for signs of
deterioration or dirt 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 motos. 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 Honda Foam Air Filter Oil or
an equivalent. Be sure to grease the air cleaner flange where
it contacts the air cleaner housing. Honda White Lithium
Grease, or an equivalent, is handy for this because any dirt
that penetrates this sealing area will show up clearly (page
51).
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.
General Competition Maintenance
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