Positioning:
The Kawasaki KXT250 Tecate 3 was a highly competitive performance-oriented ATV (all-terrain vehicle) in its era, often referred to as a 'trike' due to its three-wheel configuration. This manual is essential for owners and enthusiasts looking to maintain and repair these capable machines.
Competitors:
Competed against other performance ATVs of the era such as Yamaha's Tri-Z, Honda's ATC series, and Suzuki's LT series. The Tecate was known for its powerful two-stroke engine and agile handling.
Vehicle Highlights:
Powerful two-stroke engine, aggressive styling, performance-oriented suspension, lightweight chassis, distinctive three-wheel design.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Carburetor (including main jet, slow jet, mixture screw adjustment), fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable)
Ignition System:
Stator, flywheel, ignition coil, spark plug, timing, troubleshooting 'no spark' issues
Drive Train:
Transmission, clutch, chain drive, sprocket replacement, lubrication
Suspension:
Front forks (including hydraulic components, seals), rear suspension linkage, swingarm, shocks, adjustment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, brake pads, rotors, hydraulic lines, caliper maintenance, adjustment
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lights (front, rear), switches, battery charging, stator output, rectifier (if applicable)
Bodywork And Chassis:
Frame, fenders, plastics, seat, handle bars, cables (throttle, clutch), storage
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (coolant, gear oil), lubrication, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for common issues such as starting problems, 'no spark', poor running conditions, transmission issues, suspension problems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuilds, carburetor rebuilds, suspension overhauls, brake system repairs
Installation:
Instructions for installing various parts and accessories, although the primary focus is on repair and maintenance.
Depth:
Complete workshop-level coverage, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and procedures for full rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Two-stroke, liquid-cooled (likely, common for performance models of this era)
Displacement:
249 cc (approx.)
Bore X Stroke:
Specifications available within the manual
Compression Ratio:
Specifications available within the manual
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Estimated 20-30 HP range (typical for class, specific figures in manual)
Torque:
Specifications available within the manual
Carburetor Model:
Likely a single Mikuni VM series carburetor (e.g., VM34 or similar), specific model and jetting in manual
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with appropriate two-stroke oil pre-mix ratio
Fuel Mixture Ratio:
Typically 20:1 or 32:1, check manual for exact specification
Overall Length:
Specifications available within the manual
Overall Width:
Specifications available within the manual
Wheelbase:
Specifications available within the manual
Dry Weight:
Specifications available within the manual (typically around 300-350 lbs)
Fuel Capacity:
Specifications available within the manual (likely around 2-3 gallons)
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific intervals for engine oil (transmission/clutch lubrication).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for recommended intervals and types.
Air Filter Maintenance:
Frequent cleaning or replacement recommended based on operating conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
Two-stroke specific pre-mix oil, SAE 10W-30 or similar motorcycle oil for shared crankcase lubrication (verify in manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), specific capacity in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific type).
Common Problems:
Carburetor clogging, ignition system issues (weak spark), suspension seal leaks, clutch wear, engine decarbonization due to two-stroke nature.
Tire Pressures:
Specific pressures for front and rear tires listed in manual.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, suspension, wheels) provided in manual.
Valve Clearance:
N/A (Two-stroke engine does not have valves in the traditional sense).
Kawasaki Atv History:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing robust and performance-oriented motorcycles and ATVs, with the Tecate line representing a significant entry into the performance ATV market.
Tecate Line:
The Tecate 3 was a successor to earlier Kawasaki ATVs, built to compete in the burgeoning sport ATV segment, offering enhanced performance and handling.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (typical for Kawasaki vehicles of this era)
