I'm about to replace my KLX shift star an was wondering if the bike needs to be in gear or neutral for doing this. I've searched the shop manual and did not find that information.

Thank you!

 

It shouldn't matter.

Ride on
Brewster

 

Doesn't matter-the part has a dowel that indexes it so you can only put on one way. Take your time and pay attention when you take it apart. It's an easy task.

 

ok thank you guys!

 

I did it today. It was not fun. I'm not that bad with a ratchet. Even if I already had disassembled and reassembled a couple of top ends in the past without too much trouble, It took me much more time than I thought it would. I've red somewhere it's supposed to be a two hours job taking your time. In my case I opened the shed at 3:15 and closed the door at 7:30 (with a 15min break to eat 2 pizza slices).

Three things made me loose my time :

1- The skid plate. I had to remove it to access the nut in the lower right corner. It took me some time to realize it.

2- The dirt. I was working outside cause I don't have a garage yet. I was always finding myself cleaning part because dirt was getting in the engine (Yes I cleaned the bike real good before).

3- The cover itself. It was hard to get it off. Oil was everywhere and it was stuck. You got the picture.

All in all I'm glad I did it. I had the faulty shift star. It still looks brand new thought. At least I'll be riding with peace of mind, not worrying about that shift star.

 

Good news! It's really easier to shift now. Just for that, it's worth the effort.