spark plug removal tool????

[flintlock28]

I 've had my 2004 Yz 450f for three weeks now. I decided yesterday to pull the spark plug. and inspect it/replace it. I had a heck of a time using a conventional socket that would work with my extensions and torque wrench due to the tight clearances. Does Yamaha offer a proper tool? or is there an Aftermarket part that will do the job better?? please tell me what you use. Don ?

[DPW]

I assume you bought the bike used right? Yamaha provides the spark plug tool and a couple of jets when you buy the bike new.

If the bike is running good right now I wouldn't worry the plug.

[flintlock28]

Yes, I bought the bike used with about 50 hours trail riding only. Funny thing yesterday when I pulled the plug it was almost only finger tight!! I'm suprised I didn't feel anything strange. The plug looked good, primarily tan colored and a little black, but I've been riding on some slower trails lately. Anyway, Is the Yamaha tool decent? or is there a better aftermarket?? I'm not taking the plug out again using the Half-azzed method of an extension cocked at an angle, too much chance of stripping. Don

[grayracer513]

Motion Pro tools, available at most MC shops, makes a neat little plug socket/extension combo that works nicely. The extension has a 14mm hex at the top, a 1/4" drive socket, and is cross-drilled, so you have at least three options as to how to turn the wrench.

[flintlock28]

Thanks grayracer....I'll look into that Don

[biznet1]

I just use a standard sparkplug socket, a universal and a small extension. Works fine.

[WheelsUp]

Careful with the supplied tool. The pin that connects the hinge is a bit long and can touch the sides of the hole, causing fine shavings of aluminum (magnesium?) to fall into the spark plug hole.

My factory tool is in my fender bag with the spare plug, but it will be used only in the event that the bike WILL NOT run and get me home.

I use a standard spark plug socket, universal, and extension on a 3/8 ratchet.

Put the universal on the socket, drop the socket into the hole, THEN put the extension into the hole and into the universal.

It's a lot easier to remove the seat, remove the tank mounting bolts, and have a buddy lift the tank slightly. I can change a plug this way in 5 minutes.

[arel451]

I use a piece of rubber tubing that fits snugly over the plug. I can feel if its threading in properly and snug it up with the plug wrench and extension. Works well for retrieving the plug out if the hole as well.

[grayracer513]

I use a standard spark plug socket, universal, and extension on a 3/8 ratchet.

Put the universal on the socket, drop the socket into the hole, THEN put the extension into the hole and into the universal.

The Motion Pro extension is made withe the square drive male end rounded over some, so that it works as a universal, but with limited range. That eliminates the "3rd" piece that an added in universal joint would be. Several tool manufacturers make extensions like that, so you could just buy one to use with your standard plug socket. What attracted me to the Motion Pro was that their extension did not require me to carry a 3/8 ratchet in my tool bag in order to use it. Plus, because it's a flex joint, the plug, socket, and extension can be inserted or removed all at the same time, so you don't have to assemble and disassemble the tools while using them.

There are probably some other good ones, too.

[sirthumpalot]

Go to Sears and get a set of wobbler extensions. It's a standard extension but the far end is somewhat rounded and allows the socket to swivel a few degrees. Get a nice long one like 12" so the top is above the frame. Also get a spark plug socket with a rubber ring on the inside (to hold on to the plug). Now your spark plug changes will be a breeze, and there's plenty of room for the torque wrench because the extension is over the top of the frame.

[913YZ426MXer]

Any auto part store (Hi/Lo "O'Reilly", AutoZone, etc.....) have a "T" handled ? sparkplug removal tool typically located in their "off brand" portion of the tool section.

During my last sp change I ran into the same dilemma, though this tool made it much easier to handle. (Forgot to add, this tool runs about 4-5 buck!)

Good luck.

[MotoGoalie]

I just use a standard sparkplug socket, a universal and a small extension. Works fine.

Yep, this is the best setup. I just bought some spare sets from Ace and carry one complete unit in my offroad kit and one at home.

BTW, my FIL owns an Ace hardware.....PM me if you guys would like some stuff for 15% over invoice, ie really cheap.

[jdd123]

One of the auto parts stores, Autozone or Checker also sells a spark plug socket with a universal already on it. It works fine. I still prefer the cheap socket you get with the bike. Wrap electrical tape around the pin and you wont scrape anything.