How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2013 Yamaha YZ85

Shop parts for a 2013 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Why replace the clutch on a 2013 Yamaha YZ85?

The 2013 Yamaha YZ85 is a lightweight motocross machine with a wet, multiplate clutch and cable actuation. Common clutch symptoms that justify replacement include slipping under hard acceleration, dragging when released, inconsistent lever feel, hard or jerky shifts, and a lever that loses its normal engagement point. Because the YZ85 is a youth motocross bike, aggressive starts, frequent clutch slipping in tight tracks or sand, and high heat during sustained racing accelerate wear. Replacing the clutch restores crisp throttle response, full power transfer to the rear wheel, and smooth shifts.

Tools, parts & prep

  • New clutch kit designed for 2013 Yamaha YZ85 (friction plates, steel plates, pressure plate, springs if included)
  • Basic metric hand tools, clutch holding tool or strap, socket set, torque wrench (for general fasteners), pliers
  • Fresh engine oil compatible with wet clutches and the correct capacity for the YZ85
  • Clean rags, parts tray, drain pan, and a small brush
  • Workstand or level, and a serviceable clutch cable (inspect while you're in there)

Overview of clutch components to inspect

Know what you'll check as you disassemble this prevents surprises.

  • Clutch cover look for damaged sealing surface and oil residue from past leaks.
  • Pressure plate check for heat spots, warping or grooving.
  • Clutch springs confirm even free length and no corrosion or sagging.
  • Friction plates glaze, uneven wear, or reduced thickness; burned or hardened surfaces signal replacement.
  • Steel drive plates discoloration, warping or excessive scoring.
  • Clutch hub & basket inspect basket fingers for notching where plates engage and inner hub splines for rounded or worn teeth.
  • Thrust washer & pushrod smooth faces and free movement; look for pitting or excessive wear.

Step 1 Prepare the bike

  • Set the 2013 Yamaha YZ85 on a stable stand and warm the engine slightly to thin oil for draining.
  • Drain the engine oil into a pan if you prefer to remove oil before opening the clutch cover the YZ85 uses the engine sump for clutch lubrication, so draining reduces mess and allows inspection of oil condition.
  • Clean the clutch cover area so dirt doesn't fall into the clutch as you work.

Step 2 Remove clutch cover and disassemble

  • Loosen and remove the clutch cover bolts, keeping a hand over the cover to avoid dropping small parts. Remove the cover and gasket or carefully peel the sealant.
  • With the cover off, note the clutch pushrod, thrust washer, and the pressure plate retaining bolts or nut. Use a clutch holding method to stop the basket from turning a strap around the engine or a holding tool works well.
  • Remove the clutch springs evenly in a cross pattern to relieve pressure progressively; pull the pressure plate off once springs are removed.
  • Slide out friction and steel plates in order, keeping them stacked and noting orientation on the YZ85 these alternate plate types in a stack with the splined plates engaging the hub.

Step 3 Inspect basket, hub and plates

  • Inspect basket fingers for notching where the steel plates contact the basket. Minor scoring is normal; pronounced notches mean the basket is likely due for replacement.
  • Check inner hub splines for sheared or rounded peaks, which cause clutch drag and inconsistent engagement.
  • Lay steel plates flat on a smooth surface to check for warping and look for blueing that indicates overheating. Check friction plates for glazing, burned spots or thinning.
  • Examine thrust washer and pushrod for pitting; any roughness will cause drag or noisy operation.

Step 4 Prepare new plates and reassembly order

  • Soak new friction plates in fresh engine oil for at least 15-30 minutes for full saturation wet clutches need oil in the friction material before use.
  • Clean steel plates and basket with a lintfree cloth if reusing them. Replace steel plates if warped or heavily discolored.
  • Reinstall plates in the correct alternating order start with the inner driven plate that fits the hub if that was the original layout. Keep the stack aligned so splines engage smoothly with the hub and basket.

Step 5 Reinstall pressure plate & springs

  • Seat the pressure plate over the plate stack and align any locating tabs or pin holes.
  • Install clutch springs evenly. Tighten the spring bolts gradually in a crisscross pattern to seat the pressure plate without distortion tighten until snug and then final snugness until all springs are compressed equally.
  • Doublecheck that the pushrod and thrust washer are seated and free to move when the clutch lever is actuated.

Step 6 Refit clutch cover, refill oil, and adjust

  • Fit a new gasket or fresh sealant and reinstall the clutch cover. Tighten cover bolts progressively in a star pattern to avoid warping the cover.
  • Refill the engine with the correct type and quantity of oil. Clean oil improves clutch lifeold or wrong oil can cause slipping or drag.
  • For the cableactuated clutch on the YZ85, set free play at the lever usually a small amount of free play at the lever tip to ensure full engagement when released. Inspect the cable for fraying, kinks or binding; replace if needed. Improper cable tension can mimic a worn clutch, so confirm cable routing is smooth through the lever and actuator.

Breakin and final checks

  • With the engine at idle, pull the clutch lever several times to confirm smooth engagement and full return. Wheel the bike slowly in gear to confirm no dragging or slipping.
  • Perform a short, easy breakin ride with moderate clutch use avoid aggressive launches for the first few miles so the new friction material seats properly.
  • After the first short ride, retorque visible fasteners, recheck oil level, and confirm lever free play. Monitor clutch behavior over the next few outings; a new kit should promptly restore consistent engagement and improved throttle response.

Why correct installation matters for the YZ85

On a 2013 Yamaha YZ85 used for motocross, the clutch transfers the compact engine's power during launches and technical sections. A correctly installed wet, multiplate clutch delivers predictable engagement, reduces rider fatigue, and keeps the smalldisplacement motor in the powerband. Pay attention to cable routing, oil condition, and basket/hub wear during replacement those items most commonly determine whether the new kit performs like new or returns early symptoms.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Clutch Kits for a 2013 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Baskets for a 2013 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Springs for a 2013 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Inner Hubs and Pressure Plates for a 2013 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Covers for a 2013 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.