How to Replace the Spark Plugs on a Yamaha R6
by Chris GillilandYamaha's YZF-R6 has been a favorite among track-day riders and racers. Praised for its agility and lightweight frame, the R6 has earned a reputation for performance. While the bike is rock solid on the street or track, the mass centralization techniques employed by Yamaha's engineers complicate basic maintenance chores. Simple tasks, such as spark plug replacement, require removal of the R6's plastic bodywork, forcing many owners to rely on their Yamaha dealer to do the work for them. However, learning to change the plugs yourself can yield a tremendous savings.
Step 1
Remove the rider's seat, using an Allen head socket to unscrew the two mounting bolts at the rear of the seat.
Step 2
Unbolt the fuel tank. Use an Allen head socket to remove the pair of bolts securing the front of the fuel tank and the single bolt at the base of the fuel tank. Lift the tank upwards and disconnect the two wiring harnesses from the tank. Disconnect the fuel lines, taking note of their location and arrangement. Set the tank aside.
Step 3
Remove the air box cover by removing the bolt closest to the handlebars. Lift the cover away and disconnect the hose clamps. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the pair of screws that secure each intake duct to the air box and pull off the hose clamps. Pull the air box out of the frame and remove the head shield hidden beneath the air box.
Step 4
Disconnect and remove the ignition coils one at a time. Using a spark plug socket, unscrew and remove the spark plugs from the cylinder. Coat the threads of the new spark plugs with anti-seize compound and carefully screw them into the cylinder. Do not over-tighten the spark plugs. Reinstall the ignition coils and connect them to their wiring harnesses.
Step 5
Reinstall the heat shield and lower air box. Reconnect the air ducts and hose clamps before installing the air box cover. Reconnect the fuel lines and harnesses to the fuel tank. Remount the rider's seat.
References
- "The Professional Motorcycle Repair Program;" Professional Career Development Institute; 1995
Things You'll Need
- Allen sockets
- Socket wrench
- 10mm wrench
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Spark plug socket
- Anti-seize compound
- Spark plugs, CR9EK (4)
Writer Bio
An avid motorcyclist, Chris Gilliland has immersed himself into the two-wheeled world while balancing work life and raising three daughters. When he is not managing the parts department of a local, multi-line motorcycle dealership, Gilliland can often be found riding, writing or working on his motorcycle blog, Wingman's Garage.
