How to Set Yamaha R6 Cam Timing
Setting the cam timing on a Yamaha YZF-R6 is a quick job that can be done with a handful of tools and a couple of parts, once the engine is removed from the Yamaha motorcycle.
Watch the video above and follow the steps below to set the cam timing on a Yamaha R6 motorcycle.
Tools and Parts - Yamaha R6 Cam Timing Setting
- Ratchet and extension
- 8mm, 14mm sockets
- 5mm Allen
Yamaha R6 Cam Timing Setting Steps
Step 1. Remove the bolts holding the cylinder head cover in place on top of the motor, followed by the cover itself.
Step 2. Remove the oil pump cover, which is located at the lower right front of the motor.
NOTE: Keep a note of where the various brackets and retaining clips are located so you can reinstall them on the correct bolts.
Step 3. Remove the spark plugs to make turning the engine over much easier.
Step 4. Look for the timing mark (T-mark) on the timing chain rotor, and the mark on the crankcase to the left of the sprocket. Rotate the timing chain rotor clockwise using a 14mm socket on the rotor nut, until the T-mark and the engine mark are aligned.
Step 5. Check if the engine is at top dead center (TDC) by looking at the camshaft lobes closest to the timing chain. If the lobes are pointing up, the engine is at TDC. If the lobes are pointing down, the engine is at bottom dead center, and you'll have to rotate the timing chain rotor again until the marks are aligned.
Step 6. Check if the timing marks on the two cam chain sprockets are level with the crankcase. If the T-mark is properly aligned, the engine is at TDC and if the timing chain rotor timing marks are level with the crankcase, the cam timing is correctly set. If the cam chain sprocket timing marks aren't level with the crankcase, the timing is incorrectly set and will need to be adjusted.
Step 7. To adjust the cam timing, lift the cam chain sprockets off their camshafts, then lift the chain off the sprockets and move the chain accordingly. Usually if the timing is not set right, it's because the cam chain has jumped a tooth on a sprocket, so the necessary chain adjustment will be small.
Step 8. Reinstall the oil pump cover, the cylinder head cover and the spark plugs. Install a new oil pump cover gasket and cylinder head cover gasket, and replace the old spark plugs with a new set.
Watch the video above to learn how to install the cylinder head on a Yamaha R6 motorcycle.
