How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F Dirt Bike

How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F

Why replace the clutch on a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F?

The 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F is a 450cc fourstroke enduro machine built for aggressive trail and woods riding. Its wet, multiplate clutch endures heavy loads launches, technical lowspeed work, sand and prolonged slipping which can lead to fading performance. Common symptoms that justify a clutch kit replacement include slipping under throttle, dragging gears, inconsistent lever feel, hard or missed shifts, and a lever that suddenly feels soft or tight. Replacing worn plates and springs restores power transfer, throttle response and crisp shifting.

System notes for this generation

This EC 450F uses a wet multiplate clutch with a manual cable actuation common to this era. That means you'll check cable free play and routing as part of the job cable stretch or binding can mimic worn components. The wet design requires oil presence and correct plate soaking before assembly for reliable engagement.

Tools & consumables

• Metric sockets and wrenches, clutch holding tool or soft strap
• Torque wrench (for final fasteners) do not rely on guesswork
• Clean engine oil (fresh) and a drain pan
• New clutch kit (friction & steel plates, springs, pressure plate if included)
• Clean rags, parts cleaner, small brush
• Container for small fasteners and a permanent marker or masking tape for orientation marks

Preparation

Park the bike on solid ground and secure it upright on a stand. Work with a cool engine. Clean the clutch cover area to prevent dirt entering the case when opened. For a wet clutch job drain the oil into a pan this avoids contaminating the oil with clutch debris and makes plate removal cleaner. Note the routing and condition of the clutch cable at the lever and at the clutch arm.

Removing the clutch cover & plates

• Loosen the clutch cable free play to relieve pressure on the pushrod.
• Remove the clutch cover bolts and carefully lift the cover straight off some oil will remain, so keep the drain pan below and a rag ready.
• Mark the relative position of the pressure plate to the basket with a scribe or tape to aid reassembly orientation.
• Loosen the clutch spring bolts evenly in a crisscross pattern to relieve the pressure plate without cocking it. Remove springs, spring seats and pressure plate.
• Pull out the friction and steel plates in order, keeping them stacked as removed so you can confirm the sequence and count against the new kit instruction. Note any burnt steels, glazed frictions or plate thickness loss visually.

Inspecting internal components

With the plates removed, inspect the clutch basket fingers for notching or hooked edges where plates contact. Check the inner hub splines for burrs or wear. Spin the basket excessive wobble or bearing play indicates deeper service. Examine friction plates for glazing, oil contamination, or uneven wear. Hold steel plates up to light to spot warping or heat discoloration. Compress each spring by hand to compare free length and tension uneven springs should be replaced.

Preparing new parts

Soak all new friction plates in the recommended engine oil for at least 15-30 minutes so they are fully lubricated. This helps prevent initial slippage and premature wear. Lay out the new steels and frictions in the expected alternation and doublecheck the plate count against the kit and bike's original stack. Replace the thrust washer and inspect the pushrod end for wear repair any scored or mushroomed parts before reassembly.

Reassembly plates to cover

• Install plates in the proper order typically alternating friction then steel. Make sure each plate seats fully into the basket and hub splines.
• Install the pressure plate, spring seats and new springs. Tighten spring bolts gradually in a crisscross pattern to get even compression across the plate. Do not overtighten snug them evenly until the spring seats sit flush.
• Rotate the clutch actuator a few revolutions while pushing the lever (or operating the clutch arm) to ensure smooth movement and correct seating of the pack.
• Refit the clutch cover with a clean gasket or sealing surface. Tighten cover bolts evenly in a cross pattern.

Oil refill & cable adjustment

Refill with the correct oil for your EC 450F. Let the bike sit briefly so oil migrates into the clutch pack. If your bike uses a cable clutch, set the free play at the lever a small amount of free play at the perch prevents constant partial engagement. Check the cable at the throttle and along its routing for smooth movement and lubricate or replace a binding cable. For consistent engagement, operate the lever several times and recheck free play after a short test run.

Breakin and verification

Return the bike to neutral and start it. Let it warm to normal operating temperature and work the clutch multiple times offthrottle. Perform short, easy gear engagements and light rides for the first 20-30 minutes to seat the new plates. Avoid highload launches until the plates have fully bedded in. After the initial ride recheck cable free play and clutch cover bolts.

Maintenance advice tied to riding

On a 450cc enduro like the EC 450F, aggressive starts, technical lowspeed work and sand can accelerate plate wear. Regular oil changes and using the correct oil viscosity reduce heat and friction damage. If you ride in hot or dusty conditions frequently, inspect the clutch more often notching of the basket and reduced spring tension are the most common wear items you'll encounter.

Final checks

• Confirm smooth lever travel and predictable engagement across the pull range.
• Listen for chatter or grabbing this can indicate misstaged plates or inadequate soak time.
• Verify shifts under light load before returning to aggressive riding.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Clutch Kits for a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Baskets for a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Springs for a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F Dirt Bike.

Shop Inner Hubs and Pressure Plates for a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Covers for a 2014 GAS GAS EC 450F 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.