About the Yamaha XS400S Special
Use the XS400SH catalog as a documented SOHC Special reference; verify the complete model code, year, market and fitted assemblies.
The Special designation needs the complete Yamaha model code behind it. For example, Yamaha’s XS400SH parts catalog shows a single camshaft, two intake and two exhaust valves, separate carburetor assemblies, a front disc caliper and a rear drum. That provides a useful SOHC Special reference when separating engine and brake parts from the later XS400R Seca.
Keep the year with each repair
The featured XS400S overhaul gasket set lists 1980–1982. The selected rear shoes, disc-pad product, front master-cylinder kit and individual clutch plate list 1980–1981. The gasket’s later year does not extend the brake or clutch coverage.
Compare the original engine and brake arrangement with what is fitted now. A changed front end, rear wheel or master cylinder needs identification at the component level.
Identify the model and plan the repairXS400S Special: engine generation and brake positions
Factory XS400SH reference
Single-cam twin identification
The factory catalog shows one camshaft and two intake/two exhaust valves. Use the full model code and fitted engine to distinguish it from the XS400R Seca engine application.
Front disc and rear drum
Two different friction parts
The SH catalog separates front disc-caliper parts from rear drum shoes. Match the actual position and assembly; a changed wheel or brake can require a different product.
1982 application boundary
Gasket coverage is not brake coverage
The featured gasket set lists XS400S 1980–1982. The four selected brake/clutch products list 1980–1981 only.
| Repair | Listed years | Ordering distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Engine overhaul gaskets | 1980–1982 | Confirm the installed engine and actual set contents. |
| Rear drum shoes | 1980–1981 | Match the rear hub, shoe profile and cam/pivot. |
| Disc pads and front master-cylinder kit | 1980–1981 | The pads service the caliper; the kit services the front master cylinder. |
| Individual clutch plate | 1980–1981 | Confirm plate type, stack position and quantity. |
Frame, engine and fitted componentsYamaha XS400S Special identification checklist
- Record the complete frame/VIN, engine marking, model year and original market.
- Check the installed engine against the overhaul gasket outline, cover joints and openings.
- Identify the rear drum and front brake independently; compare shoe dimensions or pad shape to the actual assembly.
- If handlebars or controls were changed, record master-cylinder markings, lever interface and hose routing before buying internals.
Contact PartsNMore with your model, year and clear component photos.

