Target User:
DIY enthusiasts, ATV owners, repair shops seeking factory-accurate information.
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level detail for a specific, older model, offering more accuracy and depth than generic online guides.
Content Scope:
Comprehensive teardown, rebuild, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.
Visuals:
Includes pictures and part diagrams.
Technical Data:
Features torque specs and detailed procedures.
Usability:
Searchable and printable format enhances user experience.
Support:
Free replacement offered by seller.
Engine:
Complete engine teardown, rebuild, internal components, lubrication, cooling, ignition system, starting system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (including jetting, idle, mixture screw), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Gearbox, clutch, drive shaft, reverse gear, primary reduction gear.
Chassis Suspension:
Front forks, rear suspension (swingarm, shock absorbers, linkage), steering system, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, brake pads, rotors, hydraulic lines, brake levers/pedals.
Electrical:
Ignition system (magneto, coil, spark plug), charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), battery, starter motor, switches (lights, kill switch), wiring diagrams.
Bodywork Cosmetics:
Plastics, fenders, seat, handlebars, body panels, lighting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, chain adjustment (if applicable), battery maintenance, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Identification of common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation (if applicable), no-spark diagnosis.
Repair Rebuild:
Complete engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension repair, brake system servicing, electrical component replacement.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle and mixture adjustment, valve clearance adjustment (if applicable), brake lever/cable adjustment.
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement instructions (e.g., stator, starter, shocks), accessory installation guidance.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and overhaul procedures. Includes detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
Specific values would be detailed in the manual, typically around 62.0 x 62.0 mm
Valve Configuration:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Estimated 12-15 HP (specific figure available in manual)
Torque:
Estimated 10-12 lb-ft (specific figure available in manual)
Carburetor Type:
Single Carburetor (likely Mikuni VM series, specific model in manual)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 US gallons (including reserve) - specific value in manual
Overall Length:
Approximately 73.2 inches (1859 mm) - specific value in manual
Overall Width:
Approximately 41.1 inches (1045 mm) - specific value in manual
Overall Height:
Approximately 42.0 inches (1067 mm) - specific value in manual
Dry Weight:
Approximately 368 lbs (167 kg) - specific value in manual
Curb Weight:
Not explicitly stated, but typically close to dry weight for ATVs without many fluids.
Payload Capacity:
Specific values not generally provided for this era of ATVs, but typically sufficient for rider and light cargo.
Front Rack Capacity:
Typically around 20-30 lbs - specific value in manual
Rear Rack Capacity:
Typically around 40-50 lbs - specific value in manual
Front Tire Size:
22x10-10 - specific size in manual
Rear Tire Size:
22x10-10 - specific size in manual
Wheel Base:
Approximately 48.0 inches (1220 mm) - specific value in manual
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 5.5 inches (140 mm) - specific value in manual
Safety Certifications:
ATV safety standards of the era (e.g., ANSI standards for off-highway vehicles).
Braking System:
Drum brakes front and rear (specifics in manual)
Engine Braking:
Present via CVT system.
Handlebars:
Grip-style throttle, hand brake levers.
Body Protection:
Front bumper, plastic body panels.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight/brake light.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 100 hours or annually - specific interval detailed in manual.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 20 hours or as needed based on conditions - specific interval detailed in manual.
Spark Plug Check:
Every 50 hours or annually - specific interval detailed in manual.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 200 hours or annually - specific interval detailed in manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher recommended - specific viscosity and API rating in manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.6 US quarts (1.5 liters) without filter change, 1.7 US quarts (1.6 liters) with filter change - exact capacity in manual.
Gear Oil Type:
Specific gear oil grade recommended in manual (often GL-4 or GL-5).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended - specific type in manual.
Carburetor Issues:
Clogging due to ethanol in modern fuels, idle issues, mixture problems.
Electrical Issues:
Stator failure, rectifier/regulator issues, starting system problems common in older vehicles.
Suspension Wear:
Worn bushings, shock absorber degradation over time.
Drive Train Wear:
CVT belt wear (if applicable, though this model likely uses a clutch/gear system), universal joint wear on driveshaft.
Kawasaki Atv Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long history in off-road vehicles, including ATVs, with models like the Prairie and Bayou being well-regarded for their utility and durability.
Bayou Series Introduction:
The Bayou series was introduced in the mid-1980s as Kawasaki's entry into the utility ATV market, competing with brands like Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki.
Bayou 185 Positioning:
The Bayou 185 was positioned as an entry-level to mid-range utility ATV, suitable for light recreational use, farming, and trail riding.
Production Period:
1985-1988 (with variations for specific model years)
Manufacturing Location:
Likely manufactured by Kawasaki in Japan or a subsidiary location.
