How important is it to have the valves adjusted on a new Raptor. I have about 15 hours on it now. I have changed the oil and filter once. They are not making any sounds that would lead me to think there is any problems.

 

Signs of a needed valve adjustment are loss of power and hard starting. I adjust the valves EVERY 30hrs, roughly every other oil change. If you dont adj. the valves you lose power, wear out the valves quicker and put more strain on the starter/one-way.

 

I have to run the choke for a while now before it gets hot enough to run properly. Don't know if that has anything to do with it or not. It does seem like the power has dropped a little...I thought I was just being paranoid. Oh yea sometimes when its cold it will die (with the choke on) and I hear a loud pop in the engine. It has only done this twice though. I may just be paranoid but I am trying to learn to troubleshoot 4 strokes better. I think I'll call the Yamaha shop tomorrow to set up an appointment. Sorry if I sound dumb but all I have ever had is 2 strokes. YZ 80,125,250, then Blaster and finally 250R. This is my first 4 stroke. Thanks for helping me out.

 

You should do it yourself, the dealer will try to rape you with the regular maintenance. Just go here and learn how to do it. You will save yourself a TON of money.

 

WOW!! Thats a detailed link. I'll pick up a feller gauge tomorrow and give it a try. Thanks again.

 

If you are pretty mechanicaly inclined then do it yourself, but if you aren't very familiar with 4 strokes you should take it to a mechanic that you trust. The thing about valve adjustments and crooked mechanics is they can say they adjusted your valves when actually they never even checked them. Some mechanics will let you look when they have the cover off so you can see whats in there. It all depends on the shop.
If you do it yourself, make sure you are on the proper stroke or you will be making it worse.