Market Segment:
Muscle Cruiser, Sport Touring
Competitors 1986:
Honda Magna, Suzuki Cavalcade, Kawasaki Voyager
Defining Characteristics:
Powerful V-four engine, distinctive styling, shaft drive
Ideal User:
Owners and mechanics performing maintenance and repairs on the 1986 VMAX
Value For Owner:
Essential for maintaining performance, longevity, and correct operation of the VMAX
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, troubleshooting, specifications
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, cleaning, fuel pump, fuel lines
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, CDI unit
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant flow, thermostat, fan operation
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, clutch service, shifting mechanism
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joints, final drive gearcase
Suspension:
Front fork overhaul, rear shock absorber service, adjustment
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, caliper service, brake pad replacement, bleeding
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter, battery, charging system
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, component removal/installation, fairings
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic servicing to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
V-Four, 4-stroke
Displacement:
1198 cc (73.1 cu.in.)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 77 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 145 hp @ 9000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
Approx. 95 lb-ft @ 8000 rpm (approx.)
Carburetors:
Four Mikuni BS36 'side-draft' carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15 L (3.96 US gal)
Safety Certification:
Meets applicable DOT and EPA standards for motorcycles
Braking System Front:
Dual hydraulic disc brakes
Braking System Rear:
Single hydraulic disc brake
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, turn signals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or API SE, SF, SG, SAE 20W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.7 L (3.9 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based) with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, fork seals, driveshaft U-joints
Potential Electrical Issues:
Aging wiring harnesses, stator output degradation
Yamaha Motor History:
Yamaha Motor Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of motorcycles, marine products, and other motorized products, founded in 1955.
Vmax Debut:
The VMAX was introduced in 1985 as the V-Max and quickly became an icon for its performance and styling.
1986 Updates:
The 1986 model (VMX12G) refined the initial design, establishing its legendary status.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
