PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT6-86EAU19652Checking the spark plugsThe spark plugs are important enginecomponents, which should be checkedperiodically, preferably by a Yamahadealer. Since heat and deposits willcause any spark plug to slowly erode,they should be removed and checkedin accordance with the periodic mainte-nance and lubrication chart. In addition,the condition of the spark plugs can re-veal the condition of the engine.The porcelain insulator around the cen-ter electrode of each spark plug shouldbe a medium-to-light tan (the ideal colorwhen the vehicle is ridden normally),and all spark plugs installed in the en-gine should have the same color. If anyspark plug shows a distinctly differentcolor, the engine could be operating im-properly. Do not attempt to diagnosesuch problems yourself. Instead, havea Yamaha dealer check the vehicle.If a spark plug shows signs of electrodeerosion and excessive carbon or otherdeposits, it should be replaced.Before installing a spark plug, the sparkplug gap should be measured with awire thickness gauge and, if necessary,adjusted to specification.Clean the surface of the spark pluggasket and its mating surface, and thenwipe off any grime from the spark plugthreads.TIPIf a torque wrench is not available wheninstalling a spark plug, a good estimateof the correct torque is 1/4–1/2 turnpast finger tight. However, the sparkplug should be tightened to the speci-fied torque as soon as possible.NOTICEECA10840Do not use any tools to remove or in-stall the spark plug cap, otherwisethe ignition coil coupler may getdamaged. The spark plug cap maybe difficult to remove because therubber seal on the end of the cap fitstightly. To remove the spark plugcap, simply twist it back and forthwhile pulling it out; to install it, twistit back and forth while pushing it in.Specified spark plug:NGK/CR9EK1. Spark plug gapSpark plug gap:0.6–0.7 mm (0.024–0.028 in)Tightening torque:Spark plug:12.5 Nm (1.25 m·kgf, 9.0 ft·lbf)