Segment:
Mid-size cruiser motorcycle.
Key Competitors Era:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha Virago series, Suzuki Intruder series of the late 1990s.
Design Philosophy:
Classic cruiser styling with V-twin engine, emphasis on comfortable riding and a timeless aesthetic.
Intended Users:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or understand the mechanics of their Kawasaki VN800-B3.
Utility For Owners:
A vital resource for owners and mechanics to perform satisfactory after-sales service, maintenance, and repairs, ensuring the vehicle remains in optimum condition.
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetors, fuel pump, lines), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, transmission disassembly/assembly, final drive (shaft drive).
Chassis Suspension:
Frame, front fork (telescopic), rear suspension (swingarm, shock absorbers), steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, hydraulic components, pad replacement, bleeding.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting system, starting system, ignition system components, instrumentation.
Bodywork Components:
Fuel tank, seat, fenders, side covers, handle bars, controls.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, periodic servicing, oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though VN800 has shaft drive), brake fluid changes.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, identification of common issues, corrective actions for various symptoms.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, valve clearance adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment.
Diagnostic Information:
Includes diagnosis and testing procedures for various systems and components.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete engine and component rebuilds.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Pictorial diagrams, exploded diagrams, detailed drawings, photographs illustrating procedures and components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special service tools required for specific repair operations.
Specifications:
Detailed service data, factory specifications, allowable limits, torque values for all components.
File Format Details:
PDF, enabling viewing on various operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux).
Printability:
All pages are printable.
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (or compatible PDF reader).
Completeness Statement:
100% complete and intact, no missing or corrupt pages/sections.
Ease Of Use:
Prepared for simplicity and ease of understanding, suitable for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.
Completeness Guarantee:
Product guarantees a complete and intact manual, ensuring no missing pages or sections for effective repair work.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, liquid-cooled, V-twin
Displacement:
77.0 cu in (1,261 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Undisclosed in product info, typically found in manual.
Horsepower:
Approx. 53 hp @ 5,000 rpm (estimated for the era, specific figure in manual).
Torque:
Approx. 61 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (estimated for the era, specific figure in manual).
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely dual Keihin CVK carburetors).
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled.
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (CDI).
Length:
Approx. 92.7 inches (2,355 mm) (typical for model).
Width:
Approx. 33.5 inches (850 mm) (typical for model).
Height:
Approx. 44.5 inches (1,130 mm) (typical for model).
Dry Weight:
Approx. 474 lbs (215 kg) (typical for model).
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 gallons (12 liters) (typical for model).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (specific interval in manual).
Valve Check Interval:
Usually around 6,000-7,500 miles (specific interval in manual).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 recommended (confirm with manual).
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki All Weather Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (confirm with manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (confirm with manual).
Carburetor Issues:
Potential for carburetor gumming if not regularly used or maintained, leading to rough idling or starting problems.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Requires periodic inspection and lubrication of the shaft drive system to prevent wear.
Electrical Connections:
As with any older motorcycle, checking for corroded electrical connections is advisable.
Kawasaki Motorcycle Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for performance and reliability in motorcycles, particularly with their V-twin cruiser offerings.
Vn800 Lineage:
The VN800 Vulcan series was introduced in the mid-1990s, filling a popular cruiser niche for Kawasaki. The VN800-B3 represents a specific model year within this successful line.
Manufacturing Period:
The VN800 Vulcan was produced for several years, with model year updates like the B3.
