🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Yamaha

Model:

YFM350 Big Bear 2WD

Model Nickname:

Big Bear

Production Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Chassis Code:

Not specified in product data, typically internal Yamaha codes like 3X3*

Vehicle Type:

All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)

Drivetrain:

2WD (Two-Wheel Drive)

👋 Introduction

Target User:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Yamaha dealerships

Value Proposition:

Comprehensive, dealership-level repair information for cost-effective maintenance and repair

Alternative Sources:

eBay CD auctions, expensive physical manuals, online forums (often incomplete or unverified)

Key Advantages:

Instant access, digital format flexibility, cost-effectiveness compared to physical copies or professional labor

Diagnostic Tools:

Focus on enabling users to diagnose and fix issues themselves

Repair Guidance:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for a wide range of repair tasks

Maintenance Planning:

Information to establish and follow a regular maintenance schedule

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Adobe Acrobat)

Delivery Method:

Instant Digital Download

Page Count:

Estimated 300-500 pages (typical for this type of manual, not explicitly stated)

File Size Consideration:

High-speed internet recommended due to potentially large file size

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, reassembly, tuning, diagnostics

General Information:

Vehicle identification, safety precautions, tool recommendations, torque specifications

Transmission:

Operation, maintenance, repair, lubrication, internal components

Chassis:

Frame inspection, repair, components

Steering:

System components, adjustments, repair, wheel alignment

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, linkages, maintenance, repair

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, brake pads, rotors, lines, bleeding procedures, adjustments

Lubrication:

Lubrication points, fluid types, capacities, schedules

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, starting system, charging system, battery, troubleshooting

Frame:

Frame integrity checks, damage assessment, repair procedures

Fuel System:

Carburetor tuning and overhaul, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump operation (if applicable)

Battery:

Maintenance, testing, replacement, charging procedures

Clutch:

Operation, maintenance, adjustment, repair (if applicable for belt-driven CVT or manual)

Seats System:

Seat removal, installation, associated components

Locks:

Ignition lock, steering lock (if applicable), related mechanisms

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, indicator lights, wiring, bulb replacement

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, adjustments

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation

Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, or component rebuilds

Inspection:

Visual inspections, wear checks, functional tests

Adjustment:

Carburetor synchronization, brake adjustments, clutch cable tension (if applicable)

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for troubleshooting and repair

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems

Rebuild Capability:

Full engine and transmission rebuild instructions, including tolerances and specifications

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific procedures

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners

Schematics:

Detailed diagrams for all major systems

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Compatibility:

PC and Mac compatible

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (standard for modern manuals)

Printability:

Printable sections or entire manual

Reproducibility:

High-resolution for clear printing of diagrams and text

Binding Recommendation:

Recommended for use in 3-ring binders

Paper Recommendation:

Printable on standard paper, oil-resistant paper recommended for frequently referenced sections

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled

Displacement:

348cc (Approximate, based on YFM350 lineage)

Bore X Stroke:

Specifics would be in the manual, typically around 82mm x 67.2mm for this displacement

Compression Ratio:

Likely around 9.2:1 to 10.0:1 (specific to this model year)

Horsepower:

Estimated 15-20 HP (typical for this class of ATV, exact figure in manual)

Torque:

Estimated 20-25 lb-ft (typical for this class of ATV, exact figure in manual)

Carburetor Type:

Mikuni VM Series (likely VM33 or similar) or Keihin

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating typically 87 RON/91 AKI

Ignition System:

CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic (likely with Hi/Lo range and Reverse, part of the Ultramatic system)

Clutch Type:

Automatic centrifugal clutch with V-belt drive (CVT)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios for Hi, Lo, Reverse, and Forward gears detailed in the manual

Drive Modes:

2WD

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear axle

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 76.2 inches (1935 mm) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Width:

Approx. 41.7 inches (1059 mm) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Height:

Approx. 43.3 inches (1100 mm) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 48.4 inches (1230 mm) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 498 lbs (226 kg) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (220 mm) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Rack Capacity Front:

Approx. 30.9 lbs (14 kg) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Rack Capacity Rear:

Approx. 66.1 lbs (30 kg) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

Towing Capacity:

Approx. 1,014 lbs (460 kg) (typical for the model, exact in manual)

🛡️ Safety Features

Atv Safety Standards:

Adherence to relevant industry safety standards (e.g., ANSI, ATVA)

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, Parking brake

Lighting:

Headlight, Taillight/Brake light for visibility

Frame Construction:

Robust steel frame for durability and rider protection

Ergonomics:

Designed for stable and controlled operation

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic, focused on functionality. Typically includes odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, neutral indicator, reverse indicator, oil pressure light.

Driver Assistance Features:

None typical for this era of utility ATV; focus is on mechanical reliability and off-road capability.

Connectivity Features:

N/A

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 1,000 km or 6 months (typical for Yamaha ATVs, consult manual for precise interval)

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 500 km or as needed based on operating conditions (consult manual)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 1,000 km or annual inspection (consult manual)

Engine Oil Type:

Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.8 L (1.9 US qt) without filter change, 2.0 L (2.1 US qt) with filter change (verify in manual)

Gearbox Oil Type:

Yamalube Gear Oil (or equivalent SAE 80 API GL-4)

Gearbox Oil Capacity:

Specify capacity for final drive and transmission gearbox if separate (consult manual)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid

Carburetor Clogging:

Common in carbureted vehicles stored for extended periods or with poor fuel quality; manual provides cleaning and tuning procedures.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time; manual details inspection and replacement.

Drive Belt Wear:

CVT drive belts require periodic inspection and replacement; manual covers inspection intervals and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Yamaha Motors Corporation:

Global leader in motorcycle, marine, and powersports manufacturing, known for reliability and innovation.

Big Bear Lineage:

The Big Bear series has a long-standing reputation for robust build quality and reliable off-road performance. The YFM350 models represent a core segment of Yamaha's utility ATV offerings.

Manufacturing Location:

Typically manufactured in Japan or other Yamaha global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Atv Industry Recognition:

Yamaha's Big Bear series is widely recognized for its durability, reliability, and strong resale value in the utility ATV market.