How to Change the Front Brake Pads on a Yamaha YFZ450R
When the brake pads wear down, your ATV loses stopping power and it can eventually damage your brake rotors.
Changing the front brake pads on a Yamaha ATV is a simple maintenance task that’s essential to keeping you in complete control out on the trail. Watch the video above and follow the steps below to change the front brake pads on a Yamaha YFZ450R.
Tools and Parts Needed – YFZ450R Front Brake Pads Change
Tools
- 3/8th ratchet
- Ratchet extension
- 12mm socket
- 5mm Allen
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Torque wrench
NOTE: The brake pads on a Yamaha Grizzly YFZ450 differ slightly from the left and right side, so be sure to get the correct pad kit for each side.
Front Brake Pad Replacement on a Yamaha YFZ450R
Step 1. Use a jack to get your ATV off the ground, then remove the wheel and spacer.
NOTE: Make sure not to lose the washers behind the lug nuts.
Step 2. Loosen the two 5mm Allen pivot pins that go through the brake pads while the caliper is still in place.
PRO TIP: You don’t have to remove the pins yet, but they’re easier to break loose with the caliper still attached.
Step 3. Remove the two 12mm bolts that hold the caliper in place, then lift the caliper away from the rotor.
Step 4. Insert a flat-blade screwdriver between the brake pads, and turn it to pry the pads apart. This will push back the pistons inside the caliper, making room for the new brake pads.
Step 5. Remove the two pivot pins you loosened in Step 2, and lift the brake pads out.
Step 6. Use some contact cleaner to clean off the caliper for the new pads.
PRO TIP: You should do the same thing for the pivot pins.
Step 7. Insert the inside pad first, followed by the outside pad.
REMINDER: There are separate part numbers for the right side brake pads and the left side brake pads. Also, the outside pad is distinguished by the C-shaped hook on it, which rests over the collar for the caliper mounting bolt.
Step 8. Insert the pivot pins.
NOTE: Just like when you loosened the pivot pins, it’s easier to tighten them once the caliper is mounted. Thread them into place for now.
Step 9. Use your hands to spread the brake pads apart, then slide the caliper back into place over the brake rotor.
Step 10. Replace the 12mm bolts that attach the caliper, and torque them to 20 foot-pounds.
Step 11. Apply Threadlocker red to the threads on the two pivot pins, then torque them to 12 foot-pounds.
Step 12. Reinstall the spacer and wheel removed in Step 1, and torque the wheel nuts to 32 foot-pounds. Repeat the whole process for the other side of your ATV and you’re done!
