How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2017 Yamaha TTR50 Dirt Bike

How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2017 Yamaha TTR50

Overview why replace the clutch on a TTR50

The 2017 Yamaha TTR50 is a youth trail/motocross-style 49cc machine that uses a small wet centrifugal clutch system designed for low-speed, forgiving power delivery. Symptoms that point to clutch replacement include slipping under acceleration, dragging or grabbing at low RPM, inconsistent engagement, hard or jerky shifting into the single-speed gearbox, and an overall mushy or vague lever/feel (if an aftermarket manual conversion is present). Replacing worn clutch parts restores crisp throttle response, reliable power transfer and smooth engagement important for beginner riders and parents who want predictable launches and low-speed control.

Prepare the bike

• Park on a stable stand or level ground with the engine cool.
• Disconnect the battery if you'll be removing electrical components near the cover.
• Clean the area around the clutch cover to keep dirt out of the transmission when opened.
• Drain transmission oil if the clutch lives in the crankcase area that requires oil removal collect and dispose of oil responsibly.
• Gather tools: basic socket set, ratchet, screwdrivers, small pick, soft mallet, clean rags, new clutch kit, fresh oil and a container to soak friction parts in.

Removing the clutch cover and exposing the clutch

Remove the right-side engine/gearbox cover screws in an organized pattern. Keep bolts in order so you can reassemble in the same locations. Work slowly and pry the cover loose gently there may be a gasket or O-ring that you'll reuse or replace. With the cover off you'll see either a centrifugal clutch assembly or a small wet multi-plate pack depending on how your TTR50 is equipped; both designs on this model family share wet operation but differ in shoes vs. plates.

Disassemble the clutch assembly

• Inspect the clutch bell/basket for scoring, heat discoloration or notching where shoes/plates contact.
• If the TTR50 uses centrifugal shoes, remove the retaining fasteners or clips holding the shoe assembly. Note the orientation and any shims or thrust washers.
• For multi-plate configurations, remove the pressure plate, springs or retaining nut carefully, remembering spring locations and order.
• Pull out friction elements and steel drive plates one at a time keep the order and orientation exactly as removed to ensure correct reassembly.

Inspection checklist what to look for

• Friction surfaces: glazing, thinning, deep grooves or uneven wear. Friction pieces should have consistent thickness and a textured surface, not mirror-smooth glazing.
• Steel plates (if present): look for blueing, warping or heavy heat discoloration that indicates slipping. Lay a plate on a flat surface and roll to check for warp visually.
• Clutch bell/basket or shoe contact area: examine for notching or deep grooves where shoes or plates engage. Light wear is normal on a youth bike, but heavy notching harms engagement.
• Springs: check free length and evenness. Springs that look compressed, rusty or uneven can allow inconsistent engagement replace with kit springs if included.
• Hub splines and inner hub: ensure splines are not rounded or excessively worn. Minor wear can be cleaned; heavy wear requires replacement.
• Thrust washers, pushrod, and bearings: check for play and scoring; these small parts help align the clutch and push evenly against the pressure surface.
• Oil condition: if oil is dark, burnt or contains metal particles, change it. Using clean, correct viscosity oil helps clutch life on the TTR50.

Preparing new components

If your replacement parts include friction plates, soak them in fresh transmission oil for at least 15-30 minutes prior to installation. For centrifugal shoe systems, wipe new shoes with oil and ensure any supplied bushings or pins are lubricated. Confirm you have the correct clutch kit for the 2017 Yamaha TTR50 generation and that all included springs, plates and washers are present.

Reinstalling the clutch correct order and even preload

• Install the clutch pack in the exact order removed alternately stack friction and steel plates for plate systems, or reinstall shoes and retainers in their original positions for centrifugal setups.
• Seat the pressure plate or clutch bell onto the hub. If springs are part of the assembly, install them evenly tighten retaining hardware gradually in a crisscross pattern so the pressure plate seats squarely.
• For springed setups, compress springs evenly. For centrifugal setups, ensure shoes move freely and return properly when the drum is rotated by hand.
• Confirm the pushrod and thrust washer are correctly oriented. Any lateral play should be minimal and even across the assembly.

Finishing reassembly

• Replace the clutch cover gasket or O-ring as needed and install the cover, tightening bolts by hand first to align the gasket. Tighten progressively to seat the cover evenly.
• Refill transmission/engine oil to the correct level using the recommended type for your TTR50 clean oil protects the clutch and extends life.
• If your bike uses a manual-style lever conversion or aftermarket cable, adjust clutch cable free play now small amounts of free play prevent drag and ensure full engagement. For factory centrifugal systems, confirm the throttle and engine idle allow smooth engagement at low RPM.

Post-install checks and break-in

• With the bike still on the stand, spin the rear wheel and blip the throttle to verify smooth engagement and no odd noises.
• Start the engine and test clutch operation through gentle low-speed runs; avoid full-throttle launches for the first miles to allow proper seating of new friction materials.
• Recheck oil level after the initial warm-up and again after a short break-in ride.

Riding context why maintenance matters on a 49cc youth trail bike

On a small-displacement trail bike like the 2017 Yamaha TTR50, abusive starts, sand, tight woods riding and elevated temperatures accelerate wear on friction parts and springs. Proper clutch service brings back predictable low-speed control crucial for teaching riders and building confidence. Using fresh oil and replacing springs or plates when they show clear wear prevents heat-related glaze and keeps power delivery linear rather than slipping under load.

Final tips

• Keep fasteners and small parts organized during disassembly so reassembly is straightforward.
• If basket fingers or splines show heavy wear, replace the worn component rather than relying only on new friction parts.
• After any clutch work, give the bike a careful test ride in a safe area to confirm restored engagement and adjust as necessary.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Clutch Kits for a 2017 YAMAHA TTR50 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Baskets for a 2017 YAMAHA TTR50 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Springs for a 2017 YAMAHA TTR50 Dirt Bike.

Shop Inner Hubs and Pressure Plates for a 2017 YAMAHA TTR50 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Covers for a 2017 YAMAHA TTR50 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.