2009 YAMAHA WR 450F oil level

1-14
STARTING AND BREAK-IN
STARTING AND BREAK-IN
FUEL
Always use the recommended fuel as
stated below. Also, be sure to use
new gasoline.
Use only unleaded gasoline. The
use of leaded gasoline will cause
severe damage to the engine inter-
nal parts such as valves, piston
rings, and exhaust system, etc.
If knocking or pinging occurs, use a
different brand of gasoline or higher
octane grade.
• For refueling, be sure to stop the
engine and use enough care not
to spill any fuel. Also be sure to
avoid refueling close to a fire.
• Refuel after the engine, exhaust
pipe, etc. have cooled off.
Gasohol (For Canada)
There are two types of gasohol: gas-
ohol containing ethanol and that con-
taining methanol. Gasohol containing
ethanol can be used if the ethanol
content does not exceed 10%. Gaso-
hol containing methanol is not recom-
mended by Yamaha because it can
cause damage to the fuel system or
vehicle performance problems.
HANDLING NOTE
Never start or run the engine in a
closed area. The exhaust fumes
are poisonous; they can cause
loss of consciousness and death
in a very short time. Always oper-
ate the machine in a well-ventilated
area.
• The carburetor on this machine
has a built-in accelerator pump.
Therefore, when starting the en-
gine, do not operate the throttle
or the spark plug will foul.• Unlike a two-stroke engine, this
engine cannot be kick started
when the throttle is open be-
cause the kickstarter may kick
back. Also, if the throttle is open
the air/fuel mixture may be too
lean for the engine to start.
• Before starting the machine, per-
form the checks in the pre-opera-
tion check list.
AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE
According to "CLEANING THE AIR
FILTER ELEMENT" section in the
CHAPTER 3, apply the foam-air-filter
oil or its equivalent to the element.
(Excess oil in the element may ad-
versely affect engine starting.)
STARTING A COLD ENGINE
This model is equipped with an igni-
tion circuit cut-off system. The engine
can be started under the following
conditions.
• When the transmission is in neutral.
• When the clutch is disengaged with
the transmission in any position.
However, it is recommended to shift
into neutral before starting the en-
gine.
1. Inspect the coolant level.
2. Turn the fuel cock to "ON".
3. Push on the main switch to "ON".
4. Shift the transmission into neutral.
5. Fully open the cold starter knob
"1".
6. Start the engine by pushing the
start switch or by kicking the kick-
starter crank.
If the engine fails to start by pushing
the start switch, release the switch,
wait a few seconds, and then try
again. Each starting attempt should
be as short as possible to preserve
the battery. Do not crank the engine
more than 10 seconds on any one at-
tempt. If the engine does not start
with the starter motor, try using the
kickstarter crank.
• If the starter motor will not turn
when pushing the start switch,
stop pushing it immediately and
kick start the engine in order to
avoid the load on the motor.
• Do not open the throttle while
kicking the kickstarter crank.
Otherwise, the kickstarter crank
may kick back.
7. Return the cold starter knob to its
original position and run the en-
gine at 3,000–5,000 r/min for 1 or
2 minutes.
Since this model is equipped with an
accelerator pump, if the engine is
raced (the throttle opened and
closed), the air/fuel mixture will be too
rich and the engine may stall. Also
unlike a two-stroke engine, this model
can idle.
Do not warm up the engine for ex-
tended periods of time.
STARTING A WARM ENGINE
Do not operate the cold starter knob
and throttle. Pull the hot starter lever
"1" and start the engine by pushing
the start switch or by kicking the kick-
starter crank forcefully with a firm
stroke. As soon as the engine starts,
Release the hot starter lever to close
the air passage.
Restarting an engine after a fall
Pull the hot starter lever and start the
engine. As soon as the engine starts,
Release the hot starter lever to close
the air passage. Recommended fuel:
Premium unleaded
gasoline only with a re-
search octane number
of 95 or higher.

2-9
MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS
CHASSIS
Item Standard Limit
Steering system:
Steering bearing typeTaper roller bearing ----
Front suspension: USA, CDN EUROPE, AUS, NZ, ZA
Front fork travel 300 mm (11.8 in)←----
Fork spring free length 460 mm (18.1 in)←455 mm (17.9
in)
Spring rate, STD K = 4.5 N/mm (0.459 kg/
mm, 25.7 lb/in)←----
Optional spring/spacer Yes←----
Oil capacity 648 cm
3 (22.8 lmp oz,
21.9 US oz)655 cm3 (23.1 lmp oz,
22.1 US oz)----
Oil level 132 mm (5.20 in) 125 mm (4.92 in) ----
(From top of outer tube with inner
tube and damper rod fully compressed without
spring.)95–150 mm (3.74–5.91
in)←----
Oil grade Suspension oil "S1"←----
Inner tube outer diameter 48 mm (1.89 in)←----
Front fork top end Zero mm (Zero in)←----
Rear suspension: USA, CDN, AUS, NZ,
ZAEUROPE
Shock absorber travel 130 mm (5.12 in)←----
Spring free length 260 mm (10.24 in)←----
Fitting length 252.5 mm (9.94 in) 251.5 mm (9.90 in) ----
Preload length
1.5–13 mm (0.06–0.51
in)←----
Spring rate, STD K = 54.0 N/mm (5.50 kg/
mm, 308.0 lb/in)←----
Optional spring Yes←----
Enclosed gas pressure 1,000 kPa (10 kg/cm
2,
142 psi)←----
Swingarm:
Swingarm free play limit
End ---- 1.0 mm (0.04
in)
Wheel:
Front wheel type Spoke wheel ----
Rear wheel typeSpoke wheel ----
Front rim size/material 21 × 1.60/Aluminum ----
Rear rim size/material 18 × 2.15/Aluminum ----
Rim runout limit:
Radial ---- 2.0 mm (0.08
in)
Lateral ---- 2.0 mm (0.08
in)

3-3
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS FOR COMPETITION USE
• The air filter needs more frequent service if you are riding in unusually wet or dusty areas.
• Hydraulic brake service
• After disassembling the brake master cylinders and calipers, always change the fluid. Regularly check the brake fluid
levels and fill the reservoirs as required.
• Every two years replace the internal components of the brake master cylinders and calipers, and change the brake fluid.
• Replace the brake hoses every four years and if cracked or damaged.
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS FOR COMPETITION USE
The following schedule is intended as a general guide to maintenance and lubrication. Bear in mind that such factors as
weather, terrain, geographical location, and individual usage will alter the required maintenance and lubrication intervals. If
you are a doubt as to what intervals to follow in maintaining and lubricating your machine, consult your Yamaha dealer.
15 Sidestand pivotCheck operation.
√√√
Apply lithium-soap-based grease (all-purpose
grease) lightly.
16 * Front forkCheck operation and for oil leakage.
√√
Replace if necessary.
17 * Shock absorber assemblyCheck operation and for oil leakage.
√√
Replace if necessary.
18 * Rear suspension link pivots Apply molybdenum disulfide grease lightly.√√
19 * Control cablesApply Yamaha chain and cable lube or engine
oil 10W-30 thoroughly.√√√
20 * Throttle grip housing and cableCheck operation and free play.
√√√ Adjust the throttle cable free play if necessary.
Lubricate the throttle grip housing and cable.
21 * Chassis fastenersCheck all chassis fitting and fasteners.
√√√
Correct if necessary.
22 Battery Check terminal for looseness and corrosion.√√ No. ITEM CHECKS AND MAINTENANCE JOBSINITIALODOMETER
READINGS
600 mi
(1,000
km) or 1
month1,800 mi
(3,000
km) or 3
months3,000 mi
(5,000
km) or 6
months
ItemAfter
break-
inEvery
race
Every
third
(or 500
km)Every
fifth (or
1,000
km)
As re-
quiredRemarks
ENGINE OIL
Replace●●
VALVES
Check the valve clearances●●The engine must be cold.
Inspect●Check the valve seats and valve
stems for wear.
Replace●
VALVE SPRINGS
Inspect●Check the free length and the tilt.
Replace●
VALVE LIFTERS
Inspect●Check for scratches and wear.

3-5
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS FOR COMPETITION USE
CARBURETOR
Inspect, adjust and clean●●
SPARK PLUG
Inspect and clean●●
Replace●
DRIVE CHAIN Use chain lube.
Lubricate, slack, alignment●●Chain slack: 48–58 mm (1.9–2.3 in)
Replace●
COOLING SYSTEM
Check coolant level and leakage●●
Check radiator cap operation●
Replace coolant●Every two years
Inspect hoses●
OUTSIDE NUTS AND BOLTS
Retighten●●Refer to "STARTING AND BREAK-
IN" section in the CHAPTER 1.
AIR FILTER
Clean and lubricate●●Use foam air-filter oil or equivalent oil.
Replace●
OIL FILTER
Replace●●
ENGINE GUARD
Replace●Breakage
FRAME
Clean and inspect●●
FUEL TANK, COCK
Clean and inspect●●
BRAKES
Adjust lever position and pedal
height●●
Lubricate pivot point●●
Check brake disc surface●●
Check fluid level and leakage●●
Retighten brake disc bolts, cali-
per bolts, master cylinder bolts
and union bolts●●
Replace pads●
Replace brake fluid●Every one year
FRONT FORKS
Inspect and adjust●●
Replace oil●●Suspension oil "S1"
Replace oil seal● ItemAfter
break-
inEvery
race
Every
third
(or 500
km)Every
fifth (or
1,000
km)
As re-
quiredRemarks

3-7
PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Before riding for break-in operation or practice, make sure the machine is in good operating condition.
Before using this machine, check the following points.
GENERAL INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Item Routine Page
CoolantCheck that coolant is filled up to the radiator cap. Check the cool-
ing system for leakage.P.3-11 – 12
FuelCheck that a fresh gasoline is filled in the fuel tank. Check the fuel
line for leakage.P.1-14
Engine oilCheck that the oil level is correct. Check the crankcase and oil
line for leakage.P.3-14 – 15
Gear shifter and clutchCheck that gears can be shifted correctly in order and that the
clutch operates smoothly.P.3-12
Throttle grip/HousingCheck that the throttle grip operation and free play are correctly
adjusted. Lubricate the throttle grip and housing, if necessary.P.3-12 – 13
Brakes Check the play of front brake and effect of front and rear brake. P.3-19 – 22
Drive chainCheck drive chain slack and alignment. Check that the drive chain
is lubricated properly.P.3-22 – 23
WheelsCheck for excessive wear and tire pressure. Check for loose
spokes and have no excessive play.P.3-26
SteeringCheck that the handlebar can be turned smoothly and have no ex-
cessive play.P.3-26 – 27
Front forks and rear shock
absorberCheck that they operate smoothly and there is no oil leakage.
P.3-23 – 26
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 pipe Check that the exhaust pipe is tightly mounted and has no cracks. P.3-10 – 11
Rear wheel sprocket Check that the rear wheel sprocket tightening bolt is not loose. P.3-22
Lubrication Check for smooth operation. Lubricate if necessary. P.3-28
Bolts and nuts Check the chassis and engine for loose bolts and nuts. P.1-16
Lead connectorsCheck that the AC magneto, CDI unit, and ignition coil are con-
nected tightly.P.1-3
SettingsIs the machine set suitably for the condition of the course and
weather or by taking into account the results of test runs before
riding? Are inspection and maintenance completely done?P.4-1 – 9

3-11
ENGINE
CHECKING THE SILENCER AND
EXHAUST PIPE
1. Inspect:
• Gasket "1"
Damage→Replace.
INSTALLING THE SILENCER AND
EXHAUST PIPE
1. Install:
• Gasket
• Exhaust pipe "1"
• Nut (exhaust pipe) "2"
• Bolt (exhaust pipe) "3"
First, temporarily tighten the nut (ex-
haust pipe), then tighten the bolt (ex-
haust pipe) 13 Nm (1.3 m•kg, 9.4
ft•lb). After that, retighten the nut (ex-
haust pipe) 20 Nm (2.0 m•kg, 14 ft•lb)
and then the bolt (exhaust pipe) 20
Nm (2.0 m•kg, 14 ft•lb).
2. Install:
• Silencer clamp "1"
• Gasket "2"
• Silencer "3"
• Washer "4"
• Bolt (silencer) "5"CHECKING THE COOLANT LEVEL
Do not remove the radiator cap
"1", drain bolt and hoses when the
engine and radiator are hot. Scald-
ing hot fluid and steam may be
blown out under pressure, which
could cause serious injury. When
the engine has cooled, place a
thick towel over the radiator cap,
slowly rotate the cap counter-
clockwise to the detent. This pro-
cedure allows any residual
pressure to escape. When the
hissing sound has stopped, press
down on the cap while turning
counterclockwise and remove it.
Hard water or salt water is harmful
to the engine parts. You may use
distilled water, if you can't get soft
water.
1. Place the machine on a level
place, and hold it in an upright po-
sition.
2. Remove:
• Radiator cap
3. Check:
• Coolant level "a"
Coolant level low→Add coolant.
1. Radiator
CHANGING THE COOLANT
Do not remove the radiator cap
when the engine is hot.
Take care so that coolant does not
splash on painted surfaces. If it
splashes, wash it away with water.
1. Place a container under the en-
gine.
2. Remove:
• Seat
• Left side cover
3. Remove the catch tank hose from
the catch tank and drain the tank
of its coolant.
4. Remove:
• Coolant drain bolt "1"
5. Remove:
• Radiator cap
Drain the coolant completely.
6. Clean:
• Cooling system
Thoroughly flush the cooling sys-
tem with clean tap water.
7. Install:
• Copper washer
• Coolant drain bolt
8. Fill:
•Radiator
• Engine
To specified level.
• Do not mix more than one type of
ethylene glycol antifreeze con-
taining corrosion inhibitors for
aluminum engine.
• Do not use water containing im-
purities or oil.
Nut (exhaust pipe):
20 Nm (2.0 m•kg, 14
ft•lb)
Bolt (exhaust pipe):
20 Nm (2.0 m•kg, 14
ft•lb)
Silencer clamp:
16 Nm (1.6 m•kg, 11
ft•lb)
Bolt (silencer):
30 Nm (3.0 m•kg, 22
ft•lb)
Coolant drain bolt:
10 Nm (1.0 m•kg, 7.2
ft•lb)
Recommended coolant:
High quality ethylene
glycol anti-freeze con-
taining anti-corrosion
for aluminum engine
Coolant "1" and water
(soft water) "2" mixing ra-
tio:
50%/50%
Coolant capacity:
1.0 L (0.88 Imp qt, 1.06
US qt)

3-14
ENGINE
5. Inspect:
• Air filter element
Damage→Replace.
6. Apply:
• Foam-air-filter oil or equivalent oil
to the element
• Squeeze out the excess oil. Ele-
ment should be wet but not drip-
ping.
• Wipe off the oil left on the element
surface using a clean dry cloth. (Ex-
cess oil in the element may ad-
versely affect engine starting.)
7. Install:
• Air filter guide "1"
• Align the projection "a" on filter
guide with the hole "b" in air filter el-
ement.
• Apply the lithium soap base grease
on the matching surface "c" on air
filter element.
8. Install:
• Air filter element "1"
Align the projection "a" on filter guide
with the hole "b" in air filter case.
9. Hook:
•Binder "1"
Hook the binder "1" so that it contacts
the filter guide projections "a".
CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL
LEVEL
1. Stand the machine on a level sur-
face.
• When checking the oil level make
sure that the machine is upright.
• Place the machine on a suitable
stand.
Never remove the oil tank cap just
after high speed operation. The
heated oil could spurt out. causing
danger. Wait until the oil cools
down to approximately 70°C
(158°F).
2. Idle the engine more than 3 min-
utes while keeping the machine
upright. Then stop the engine and
inspect the oil level.
3. Remove:
• Oil tank cap "1"
4. Inspect:
• Oil level
Check that the engine oil is above
the level mark "a" and that the oil
does not come out when the
check bolt "1" is removed.
Below the level mark "a"→Add oil
through the filler cap hole until it is
above the level mark "a".
Oil comes out at the check bolt→
Drain the oil until it stops coming
out.
When inspecting the oil level, do not
screw the oil level gauge into the oil
tank. Insert the gauge lightly.
• Engine oil also lubricates the
clutch and the wrong oil types or
additives could cause clutch
slippage. Therefore, do not add
any chemical additives or use en-
gine oils with a grade of CD "a"
or higher and do not use oils la-
beled "ENERGY CONSERVING
II" "b"
• Do not allow foreign materials to
enter the crankcase.
(For USA and CDN)
(Except for USA and CDN)
Recommended oil:
Yamalube 4, SAE10W-
40 or SAE20W-50
Yamalube 4-R,
SAE10W-50
API service SG type or
higher, JASO standard
MA
Recommended oil:
SAE10W-30, SAE10W-
40, SAE15W-40,
SAE20W-40 or
SAE20W-50
API service SG type or
higher, JASO standard
MA
4

3-15
ENGINE
5. Start the engine and let it warm up
for several minutes.
When the oil tank is empty, never
start the engine.
6. Idle the engine more than 10 sec-
onds while keeping the machine
upright. Then stop the engine and
add the oil to the maximum level.
7. Install:
• Oil tank cap
CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL
1. Start the engine and let it warm up
for several minutes.
2. Stop the engine and place an oil
pan under the drain bolt.
3. Remove:
• Engine guard "1"
• Oil tank plug "2"
• Oil filler cap "3"
• Drain bolt (with gasket) "4"
• Oil filter drain bolt (O-ring) "5"
• Drain bolt (with gasket) "6"
Drain the crankcase and oil tank
of its oil.4. If the oil filter is to be replaced dur-
ing this oil change, remove the fol-
lowing parts and reinstall them.
Replacement steps:
a. Remove the oil filter element cov-
er "1" and oil filter element "2".
b. Check the O-rings "3", if cracked
or damaged, replace them with a
new one.
c. Install the oil filter element and oil
filter element cover.
5. Install:
• Gaskets
• Oil filter drain bolt
• Drain bolt (right crankcase)
• Drain bolt (left crankcase)
6. Fill:
• Engine oil7. Install:
• Oil filler cap "1"
8. Inspect:
• Engine (for oil leaks)
• Oil level
Refer to "CHECKING THE EN-
GINE OIL LEVEL".
CHECKING THE OIL PRESSURE
1. Check:
• Oil pressure
Checking steps:
a. Slightly loosen the oil pressure
check bolt "1".
b. Start the engine and keep it idling
until oil starts to seep from the oil
pressure check bolt. If no oil
comes out after one minute, turn
the engine off so it will not seize.
c. Check oil passages and oil pump
for damage or leakage.
d. Start the engine after solving the
problem(s) and recheck the oil
pressure.
e. Tighten the oil pressure check
bolt.
Oil filter element cover:
10 Nm (1.0 m•kg, 7.2
ft•lb)
Oil filter drain bolt:
10 Nm (1.0 m•kg, 7.2
ft•lb)
Drain bolt (right crank-
case):
20 Nm (2.0 m•kg, 14
ft•lb)
Drain bolt (left crank-
case):
20 Nm (2.0 m•kg, 14
ft•lb)
Oil quantity:
Periodic oil change:
0.95 L (0.84 Imp qt,
1.00 US qt)
With oil filter replace-
ment:
1.0 L (0.88 Imp qt, 1.06
US qt)
Total amount:
1.2 L (1.06 Imp qt, 1.27
US qt)
Oil pressure check bolt:
10 Nm (1.0 m•kg, 7.2
ft•lb)