How to Install a Clutch Kit on a 2012 Yamaha YZ85

Shop parts for a 2012 YAMAHA YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Why replace the clutch on your 2012 Yamaha YZ85

The 2012 Yamaha YZ85 is a youth motocross 85cc twostroke designed for aggressive starts and tight track work. Those riding conditions plus high rpm launches and heavy slipping in sand or tight woods accelerate wear on the wet multiplate clutch. Symptoms that point to a replacement include slipping under load, dragging or poor disengagement, inconsistent lever feel, hard or missed shifts, and a generally soft or grabby throttle response. Proper clutch installation restores immediate power transfer, crisp throttle response and predictable shifting.

Tools & prep

  • Basic socket set, combination wrenches and screwdrivers
  • Clutch holding tool or clean rag to stop rotation
  • Small magnet or pick for springs & clips
  • Clean catch pan and fresh 2stroke oil (if you choose to change oil)
  • New clutch kit (friction plates, steel plates, springs) sized for YZ85 2012

Understand the 2012 YZ85 clutch system

The 2012 YZ85 uses a cableoperated wet multiplate clutch. That means plates run in engine oil, and the lever tension comes through a cable to a pressure plate assembly. Before tearing the clutch apart, verify the cable is not the cause of the problem cable stretch or binding can mimic worn friction plates.

Step 1 Prepare the bike

  • Warm the engine briefly to thin the oil, then move the bike to a stable stand on level ground.
  • Disconnect the clutch cable at the lever to give slack, then slide the cable out of the clutch arm.
  • If you prefer, drain a portion of the crankcase oil to avoid a mess when removing the cover not mandatory, but cleaner. Catch oil in a pan.
  • Clean the outside of the clutch cover to keep dirt from entering the case once opened.

Step 2 Remove clutch cover

  • Remove bolts holding the clutch cover. Keep bolts organized to reuse.
  • Carefully pry the cover free; expect some oil to drain. Inspect the cover gasket and replace if damaged.
  • Note the orientation of the pushrod, thrust washer and any oil passages as you remove parts.

Step 3 Remove springs and pressure plate

  • Loosen the clutch spring bolts in a crisscross pattern a little at a time to relieve pressure evenly.
  • Remove all springs and the pressure plate. Count springs and confirm the new kit has the same number and type.
  • Set springs and bolts aside in order so reassembly is straightforward.

Step 4 Remove old plates and inspect components

  • Slide out friction plates and steel drive plates, keeping their order if reusing steels. For a full clutch kit replacement, new plates will be installed in the same alternating order.
  • Inspect friction plates for glazing, uneven wear or burnt surfaces. Glazing appears shiny and smooth rather than textured. Deep wear grooves or thinning means replace.
  • Check steel plates for blueing, warping or deposits. Slight discoloration can be normal; severe heat discoloration or warping indicates replacement.
  • Examine clutch basket fingers for notching where plates engage. Notching causes dragging and poor engagement. Small notches can be smoothed with a file; severe notching means replacement.
  • Inspect the clutch hub splines and inner hub for rounded or damaged splines that allow plate slippage under load.
  • Confirm the thrust washer and pushrod are flat, free of burrs and seated correctly. Any scoring or wear on the pushrod end or washer can affect actuation.
  • Look for any oil leaks around the slave area or cover mating surface and clean mating surfaces thoroughly.

Step 5 Prepare new plates

Because the YZ85 uses a wet clutch, soak new friction plates in fresh 2stroke engine oil briefly before installation to improve initial engagement. Steel plates do not need soaking but should be clean and free of burrs.

Step 6 Reinstall clutch pack

  • Install plates in the correct alternating order friction, steel, friction until the pack is complete. Ensure each plate seats fully against the hub and basket.
  • Confirm that the final plate aligns with the pressure plate and that there is no binding when rotating the assembly by hand.

Step 7 Reinstall springs & pressure plate

  • Place the pressure plate over the clutch pack and start the spring bolts by hand.
  • Tighten the spring bolts gradually in a crisscross pattern to compress springs evenly. Tighten until snug you should feel spring resistance without forcing.
  • Recheck that the clutch pack rotates smoothly and that there is no excessive play in the hub.

Step 8 Reassemble cover & refill oil

  • Clean the cover sealing surface and replace the gasket if needed. Reinstall the clutch cover and bolt it down evenly.
  • If you drained oil, refill with the correct type and quantity for the YZ85 engine and run the engine briefly to circulate oil through the clutch.

Step 9 Cable adjustment & lever feel

  • Reconnect the clutch cable and set free play at the lever to a small, responsive amount so the clutch fully engages with minimal travel. Proper cable tension prevents dragging and premature wear.
  • Check for smooth lever travel; a binding cable or seized sheath will make the new clutch feel inconsistent and should be serviced or replaced.

Final checks & ride testing

With the bike on the stand, shift through the gears and verify clutch engagement and disengagement. On a short test ride, pay attention to throttle response, takeoff bite and smooth shifting. New clutch plates should deliver firmer, more immediate power transfer and cleaner shifts when correctly installed.

Notes on wear patterns & riding context

YZ85 riders who launch aggressively in motocross or spend long sessions in sand and tight woods will accelerate friction plate wear. Overheating from improper oil choice or long slipping at low speeds also shortens clutch life. Regular inspection and correct free play adjustment are the simplest ways to extend clutch life between replacements.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Clutch Kits for a 2012 YAMAHA YZ85 Dirt Bike.

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Shop Clutch Springs for a 2012 YAMAHA YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Inner Hubs and Pressure Plates for a 2012 YAMAHA YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Covers for a 2012 YAMAHA YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.