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Hot Cams stage 3 starter strain issue

7shmz

New member
Joined
Apr 10, 2025
Messages
2
Got a YFZ450R, making DIY mods and I'm hitting a wall..

Here's my setup:
2009 YFZ450R
13:1 CP Piston +3mm
Ported Head
Hot Cams Stage 3
DASA Exhaust

Got everything buttoned up but my starter's got some issues, it feels like way too much compression..

I followed Hot Cams instructions and used the stock timing marks, but noticed these "retard" lines on the cams.. I'm thinking timing the exhaust cam using that line might just be the fix.

Concerned about valve clearance.. the starter strain is insane, don't want to damage my rebuild. Anyone experienced this before?
 
I've got the same bike setup, so something's probably off with the timing, so maybe try adjusting it The retard lines on the cams might be the issue, but you need to be careful with it, valve clearance is critical here. If you're cranking too hard, you could be bending valves or damaging your rebuild, so don't rush into anything, you might need to take a step back and recheck everything before you end up messing it all up.
 
Got a YFZ450R, making DIY mods and I'm hitting a wall..

Here's my setup:
2009 YFZ450R
13:1 CP Piston +3mm
Ported Head
Hot Cams Stage 3
DASA Exhaust

Got everything buttoned up but my starter's got some issues, it feels like way too much compression..

I followed Hot Cams instructions and used the stock timing marks, but noticed these "retard" lines on the cams.. I'm thinking timing the exhaust cam using that line might just be the fix.

Concerned about valve clearance.. the starter strain is insane, don't want to damage my rebuild. Anyone experienced this before?
Retarding the exhaust cam by one tooth could certainly ease the strain on the starter. Make sure to check the valve clearance and the compression release too, if those aren't right, starting might become a real hassle. If it's still hard to crank over, it could be a good idea to get a professional to take a quick look to prevent any damage to your rebuild.
 
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