Timing Belt Tips/Tricks/Guides

I paid for my service but recommend investigating the following while you have the engine cracked:
1. Denso starter
2. Chain/ sprocket upgrade
3. Clutch judder fix

Good luck

4. Aprilia coil swap as well.

If you are out of warranty I think you should definitely include this in your service. It will prevent the dreaded Christmas tree light dash which is very expensive to replace.

Use a paint pen and make the marks where everybodys how to video shows. Count teeth. Take spark plugs out and it will be easier . You can make the cam gear lock tool using a piece of paper and a dirty finger. Trim it out and transfer it to wood/aluminum/steel/plastic. Or just 2 flat pieces of wood/metal/plastic and a bolt. 1 cut to fit on the top 10 & 2 position and the other @ 4 & 8. Drill a hole through both pieces first and once in place snug the bolt up. Or just buy the locking tool.
It's really not all that hard to do. The part I don't like is the measuring with a guitar tuner. I would prefer an actual positive measurement .

You got this. We are here if you need us. ....

Can the timing belt covers be removed without removing the gas tank? I've heard of some people finding their belts to be out of spec in as little as 5000 miles, or less than 1/3 the way to the next belt service. Would be nice to check and re-tension them between changes like we used to do on older models, but removing the tank seems like a chore.