400ex headgasket question

[tstucky]

Headgasket on my 400ex is leaking so I started tearing it down but am now stuck.. I've got it down to where the cam assembly and tensioner chain needs to come off but i can't figure out how to do it. On my crf450r there are 4 8mm bolts and the whole assembly lifts right out, but i'm not sure how to get it out of the 400. I'm assuming once I can get that out, there are 4 bolts that hold the head on and I can remove and throw the new gasket in right??

I don't have the factory manual so I'm just guessing but if someone would be kind enough to scan that section of the manual (head/topend removal) I could probably figure it out. Or if anyone has advice/pics that would be great too. Thanks!

Tim

[lghickman21]

down beside the starter is where it is at. I am assuming you already knew that. Thee is two bolts that hold it in the heads are 8mm. to take the tension off there is a philips head screw to take out then you have to a small flat head and turn it to the right i believe to take the tension off. hope that helps.

[ZSK]

I'd remove the exhaust, it just clears everything up. You need to remove the cam chain tensioner first. It's on the back of the motor on the clutch side, two 8mm head bolts hold it on. After the tensioner is removed, unbolt the cam sprocket from the cam. Use a zip tie around the sprocket and chain to hold timing in the proper place. You need to pull the dowel pins out and pull the bearings off of the cam. Once out there are four nuts that hold the head on. Note if your's has washers and where they go. It's not hard at all, just note where things are when you pull it apart.;)

Tensioner

http://servicehonda.com/hard%20parts/atv/trx400ex%2099-04/cam_chain-tensioner.jpg

Head

http://servicehonda.com/hard%20parts/atv/trx400ex%2099-04/cylinder_head.jpg

Cover

http://servicehonda.com/hard%20parts/atv/trx400ex%2099-04/cylinder_head_cover.jpg

[ride_red666]

take out the 2 timing cover on the left case. turn the crank until the t lines up with the mark. this is tdc, then do everything ZSK said

[tstucky]

Thanks guys, With your help I got it all torn down no problems.. Now it's time for a 440 kit!!