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View Full Version : question crankshaft hole cap / timing mark hole cap 86 350X


sweetip2000
03-22-2013, 04:18 PM
Anyone know what tool to use to get these caps off ?
Gonna do the valve adjust and cant seem to get the caps unscrewed.
whyzee
03-22-2013, 05:15 PM
Only thing I have ever found to fit is a really big washer and I use a pair of visegrips to hold it. Unfortunately I have had them stick and resorted to the tapping with a screwdriver which of course ruins them. I am also curious to see what the correct way/tool is.
sweetip2000
03-22-2013, 05:37 PM
yeah I am lookin around for things that might fit and dont want to tear up
BTW is that your YZ in your avatar pic ?
whyzee
03-22-2013, 05:45 PM
that's me at Southwick but I am on an RM250 in that pic.
Yamaha_Rules69
03-22-2013, 09:27 PM
I used an impact screwdriver on mine, with the biggest standard screwdriver bit that came with it. It came with 2 phillips, 2 standard and is a Craftsman. It seems like the hitting/turning force works very well for these, even though the bit does not fit perfectly. Be sure to push in hard, turn, then hit the driver with a hammer.
jb2wheels
03-22-2013, 09:44 PM
Once you get em out, replace with 400ex plugs - they have a hex head.
sweetip2000
03-22-2013, 10:28 PM
400ex plugs ok. for now i will have to improvise cause I don't have an impact screwdriver
Flyingw
03-22-2013, 11:36 PM
Just use the widest flat tip screwdriver in the slot and tap the handle with a mallet as you're twisting on it.
tripledog
03-23-2013, 06:18 AM
I used the end of a box end wrench from a motorcycle tool kit (it was just the right thickness). I clamped some Vice Grips at a 90 degree angle to the wrench so I would be able to turn it. I initially tried my impact driver, but to no avail.
sweetip2000
03-23-2013, 03:21 PM
Going to the honda stealer now to pick up an o ring for the carb insulator. 20 miles on the motorcycle. 42 degrees. very windy. I will give your suggestions a go after I get back and defrost. thanks
Dirtcrasher
03-23-2013, 03:35 PM
The large washer/vice grips works well.

If that doesn't work, I use a small BRASS punch/drift and tap it in the loosen direction. Once it moves, go back to the washer trick.

Grease the threads and o-rings when you go to reinstall it.

It may have been my 86/87 200X that I put new hex plugs in but the material was too thin and I broke one.

They don't have to be super tight.