Vehicle Type:
All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)
Generation Name:
First Generation
Applicable Model Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Chassis Codes Covered:
YFB250
Positioning:
The Yamaha Timberwolf 250 YFB250 was positioned as a reliable and versatile mid-size utility ATV, suitable for recreational trail riding, light farm work, and hunting applications. It offered a balance of performance, durability, and ease of use.
Competitors:
Competed with similar offerings from Honda (e.g., FourTrax 300), Kawasaki (e.g., Bayou 300), and Suzuki (e.g., QuadRunner 250/300) during its production run.
Features:
Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations, robust air-cooled engine, comfortable seating, reliable shaft drive (on 4WD models), straightforward maintenance, and Yamaha's reputation for build quality.
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor), exhaust system, transmission (gearbox and clutch operation), driveline (shafts, differentials for 4WD).
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection and repair, front and rear suspension (shocks, springs, A-arms), steering system (handlebar, tie rods, steering knuckles).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, repair, and bleeding (likely drum or disc brakes depending on specific model variant covered).
Electrical And Ignition:
Ignition system troubleshooting, battery and charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter motor, wiring diagrams.
Body And Trim:
Body panels, fenders, racks, seat, handlebar assembly, graphics.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug maintenance, lubrication points, pre-ride inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major mechanical and electrical parts.
Technical Adjustments:
Carburetor adjustment, valve clearance checks and adjustments, brake adjustments, suspension adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics).
Format Details:
Searchable PDF document, allowing for quick access to specific information via keywords. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.
Quality:
High-resolution digital scans, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographs.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled
Displacement:
230cc to 250cc (specific variants may vary slightly, typically around 230cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Commonly around 68.5mm x 64mm (verify with manual for specific year/model).
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 9.2:1 to 9.6:1 (verify with manual).
Valve Configuration:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder.
Horsepower:
Estimated 15-20 HP (actual figures vary by year and specific tuning).
Torque:
Estimated 14-17 lb-ft (actual figures vary by year and specific tuning).
Carburetor Type:
Mikuni constant velocity (CV) carburetor, typically a 30mm or 32mm size.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating of 87.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 gallons (10 liters).
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled.
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition).
Transmission Type:
Automatic transmission with Yamaha's Ultramatic V-belt system (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission).
Gear Selection:
Forward, Neutral, Reverse (F-N-R).
Optional Transmission:
None (all models used the Ultramatic CVT).
Drive System:
Shaft drive (on 4WD models) with selectable 2WD/4WD engagement. 2WD models have rear shaft drive.
Gear Reduction:
High and Low range gears (selectable within the CVT system).
Overall Length:
Approximately 73.6 inches (1870 mm).
Overall Width:
Approximately 41.9 inches (1065 mm).
Overall Height:
Approximately 42.3 inches (1075 mm).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 49.2 inches (1250 mm).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 467 lbs (212 kg) for 2WD, 498 lbs (226 kg) for 4WD (verify with manual).
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 6.7 inches (170 mm).
Front Rack Capacity:
Typically around 45 kg (99 lbs).
Rear Rack Capacity:
Typically around 65 kg (143 lbs).
Crash Test Ratings:
Not Applicable (ATVs are not subject to the same crash testing standards as passenger vehicles).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, or drum brakes depending on the specific model variant. Parking brake system.
Lighting:
Dual halogen headlights, brake light, taillight.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame designed for off-road durability.
Ergonomics:
Comfortable seat and handlebar position for rider control and stability.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 1000 km (620 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Initial break-in oil change often recommended earlier.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 500 km (310 miles) or 6 months, clean or replace as needed. More frequent cleaning in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 3000 km (1860 miles) or 24 months. Inspect and gap at 1000 km (620 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 3000 km (1860 miles) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (SAE 10W-30) or equivalent API SE, SF, or SG class oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.60 liters (1.7 US qt) without filter change, 1.70 liters (1.8 US qt) with filter change. (Verify with manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Gear Oil Type:
Yamaha Gear Oil or equivalent SAE 80W hypoid gear oil.
Gear Oil Capacity:
Approximately 160 ml (5.4 US fl oz) for rear differential (4WD models).
Common Wear Items:
CVT belt wear, carburetor jetting issues (clogging), aging electrical connectors, rear differential seals on 4WD models, suspension bushings.
Carburetor Performance:
Carburetors can be sensitive to fuel quality and require periodic cleaning and adjustment to maintain optimal performance, especially in varying altitudes.
Cooling System Maintenance:
While air-cooled, ensuring good airflow through the cylinder fins by keeping them clean is crucial for preventing overheating.
Heritage:
Yamaha has a long and storied history in powersports, particularly with motorcycles and ATVs, known for engineering excellence and reliability.
Timberwolf Lineage:
The Timberwolf 250 was a significant model in Yamaha's ATV lineup, filling the mid-size segment and serving as a predecessor to more advanced models. It emphasized practicality and durability over high-performance features.
Production Period:
Produced from the early 1990s through the early 2000s, with this manual covering the initial generation's key years (1992-2000).
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly potentially occurring in other Yamaha global facilities.
Industry Awards:
While specific awards are not readily documented for this model, Yamaha ATVs from this era were generally recognized for their durability, reliability, and value in the utility segment.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally well-regarded by owners for its workhorse capability and longevity, though less sporty than some competitors.
Safety Certifications:
Meets applicable safety standards for ATVs as mandated by regulatory bodies at the time of manufacture.