Market Position:
The Yamaha Tri-Z 250 was a high-performance, specialized three-wheeler ATV designed for sport riding, particularly in sand dune environments. It occupied a niche but significant segment of the ATV market in the mid-1980s.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other performance ATVs of the era, including models from Honda (like the ATC250R) and Suzuki. The Tri-Z was known for its powerful engine and aggressive styling.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Powerful 246cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke engine, long-travel suspension, disc brakes, and a reputation for being a capable and exciting sport ATV.
Key Features Of Manual:
Detailed illustrations, clear step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting assistance, factory specifications, used by professional technicians, DIY friendly.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, performance tuning, carburetor adjustment, fuel system, lubrication, ignition system, cooling system (radiator, coolant), exhaust system (muffler).
Transmission:
Gearbox, primary reduction gear, clutch, transmission fluid, gear shifting mechanisms.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front forks, rear suspension (struts, swingarm, linkage), steering system, wheels, tires.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, brake fluid, brake pads, rotors, hydraulic system.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (magneto, coil, plug), starting system (kickstart, starter), lighting, switches, battery, rectifier, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical problems (no spark).
Bodywork And Plastics:
Panels, fenders, seat, handlebars, plastics.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, preventative maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for repairing, rebuilding, and restoring all major components.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides for diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon problems.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying the root cause of issues.
Technical Depth:
Complete coverage from basic adjustments to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical system diagnosis.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, liquid-cooled
Displacement:
239cc (actual displacement often cited as 243cc or 246cc depending on source and tuning)
Bore X Stroke:
68.0 mm x 64.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
6.7:1 (typical for this era, can vary slightly)
Carburetor:
Single Mikuni VM34SS (often cited as 34mm)
Horsepower:
Approximately 24-26 HP (at the crankshaft, estimations vary)
Torque:
Not explicitly stated in common documentation, but significant for its class.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with 2-stroke oil mixture (pre-mix)
Oil Viscosity Recommendation:
2-stroke specific oil (Yamaha recommends Yamalube 2, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-40 for general use, consult manual for specifics).
Cylinder:
Single cylinder
Crankshaft:
Forged crankshaft
Valves:
Reed valve induction
Camshaft:
N/A (2-stroke engines typically do not have camshafts in the traditional sense; rely on reed valves).
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Magneto:
Internal magneto ignition
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific transmission oil change intervals (typically every 1000-2000 km or annually). Pre-mix ratio is critical.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Regular inspection and cleaning, especially in dusty conditions. Manual specifies frequency.
Spark Plug Maintenance:
Inspect and gap spark plug at regular intervals (e.g., every 1000 km or annually). Manual specifies plug type and gap.
Engine Oil Type:
2-stroke specific, pre-mix. Refer to manual for exact Yamaha specifications or equivalent high-quality 2T oil.
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamaha recommends SAE 10W-30 API SE or SF. Consult manual for precise specifications and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze (ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water. Refer to manual for ratio and type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues:
Common issues for this era of 2-stroke ATVs can include carburetor jetting sensitivity, reed valve wear, clutch engagement issues, cooling system leaks (hose degradation), and electrical component failures (e.g., CDI unit). Overheating can occur if cooling system is not maintained.
Tire Pressure Front:
Specific PSI will be detailed in the manual, typically around 4-6 PSI for dune riding.
Tire Pressure Rear:
Specific PSI will be detailed in the manual, typically around 2-4 PSI for dune riding.
Spark Plug Gap:
Refer to manual for exact specification, typically around 0.6-0.7 mm (0.024-0.028 in).
Valve Clearance:
N/A (2-stroke engine).
Carburetor Pilot Jet Size:
Refer to manual for specific jet sizes and tuning.
Carburetor Main Jet Size:
Refer to manual for specific jet sizes and tuning.
Carburetor Mixture Screw Setting:
Refer to manual for proper idle mixture adjustment.
Torque Specs:
Comprehensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners (engine, chassis, suspension, etc.) are provided in the manual.
Brand Heritage:
Yamaha has a long history in powersports, known for its innovation and performance in motorcycles, ATVs, and marine products. Their expertise in 2-stroke engine technology is well-established.
Model Evolution:
The Tri-Z (YTZ250) was a successor and evolution from earlier Yamaha sport ATVs, incorporating liquid cooling and a 6-speed transmission for improved performance and reliability. It represented Yamaha's commitment to the sport ATV segment.
Production Period:
The YTZ250 model was primarily produced in 1985, with minor updates sometimes referred to as '1985.5'.