Positioning:
The Yamaha VMAX 700 VX700 was a high-performance snowmobile targeting riders seeking power and aggressive trail riding capability. This manual supports owners and technicians in maintaining and repairing these performance-oriented machines.
Competitors:
Competed with similar displacement performance snowmobiles from Arctic Cat (e.g., Thundercat), Ski-Doo (e.g., Mach Z), and Polaris (e.g., RMK/Trail models of similar engine size).
Features:
Powerful 700cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine, performance-oriented suspension, aggressive styling, focus on rider comfort for longer rides.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetion), exhaust system.
Drive Train:
Clutch, primary drive, secondary drive, chaincase, gearbox (if applicable), drive belt, track system inspection and maintenance.
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, battery, charging system, starter, CDI unit, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (telescopic, trailing arm), rear suspension (ProAction, etc.), skis, steering system, shocks, lubrication points, alignment.
Bodywork:
Hood removal, panel replacement, decals, seat, handlebars, controls, safety features.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, lubrication, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, track tensioning, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (if applicable), diagnostic charts.
Repair And Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, bodywork repairs.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization and adjustment, chain tension, track alignment, steering linkage adjustment, brake lever free play.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider checks to full engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and component tolerances.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, parallel-twin (typically)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 73.0 mm x 80.0 mm (verify in manual)
Fuel Induction:
Dual Mikuni VM Series Carburetors (e.g., VM34)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 6.8:1 to 7.0:1 (verify in manual)
Horsepower:
Estimated 115-130 HP (varies by tune and specific model variant, manual will provide exact figures)
Torque:
Estimated 80-90 ft-lbs (verify in manual)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual, typically 87-91)
Oil Mixture:
Premix or Oil Injection system (Manual will specify type and oil requirements)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. Manual will cover brake pad replacement, fluid bleeding, caliper service, and master cylinder maintenance.
Throttle Control:
Thumb throttle with safety cable and return spring. Manual details cable adjustment and inspection.
Kill Switch:
Emergency engine stop switch (lanyard-style or handlebar-mounted). Manual covers testing and replacement.
Headlight Taillight:
Integrated lighting system for visibility. Manual includes bulb replacement and troubleshooting.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, odometer, trip meter. Manual details gauge cluster removal and diagnostics.
Engine Management:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) unit for spark timing. Manual covers testing and replacement of CDI and related sensors.
Initial Service:
Break-in service typically around 500 miles or 10 hours (refer to manual for exact break-in procedure and first service interval).
Annual Maintenance:
Annual inspection of track, suspension, engine, and electrical systems. Lubrication of moving parts, check of drive belt condition.
Spark Plugs:
Replacement typically every 2,000-3,000 miles or as per manual recommendations (e.g., NGK BR9ES or equivalent).
Drive Belt:
Inspection for wear and damage at every service. Replacement recommended based on mileage (e.g., 3,000-5,000 miles) or visible wear.
Engine Oil Injection:
Yamaha Premium Performance 2-Stroke Oil (or equivalent meeting Yamaha's specifications, e.g., API TC, JASO FD). Manual will specify exact type and grade.
Coolant:
Permanent type antifreeze (e.g., ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio. Manual will specify capacity and type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify the exact requirement and bleeding procedure.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt, carbides on skis, clutch wear (weights, rollers, springs), shock absorbers, seat upholstery, track lugs.
Engine Specific:
Potential for crank seal leaks, exhaust pipe joint leaks, carburetors requiring periodic cleaning and adjustment due to fuel quality variations. Manual will detail troubleshooting.
Electrical Specific:
Wiring harness connections can corrode in damp environments; CDI unit failures can occur with age. Manual provides diagnostic flowcharts.
Heritage:
Yamaha has a long history of producing high-quality snowmobiles, known for their robust engines and innovative chassis designs. The VMAX line has consistently represented Yamaha's performance offerings.
Evolution:
The 700cc VMAX models evolved from earlier 600cc and 700cc twins, often featuring enhancements in power delivery, suspension travel, and rider comfort. The VX700 represents a specific iteration within this successful lineage.
Production Era:
Late 1990s (1997-1999).