Model Nickname:
Thundercat
Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Engine Variant Covered:
All RJ model variants
Chassis Code:
4WD (typically, specific to market variations)
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system
Fuel System:
Carburetor system (jetting, synchronization, overhaul), fuel pump, fuel lines
Ignition System:
CDI unit, spark plugs, ignition timing, wiring diagrams
Transmission:
Gearbox internal components, clutch operation and adjustment, shift mechanism
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, suspension geometry, steering head bearing maintenance
Suspension Front:
Front forks (disassembly, reassembly, fluid replacement, seal replacement), spring rates
Brakes Front:
Brake caliper service, brake pad replacement, rotor specifications, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), battery maintenance, lighting system
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, thermostat, fan operation, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe inspection, muffler maintenance
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, body panel repair and replacement
Rear Shock ABSorber:
Rear shock adjustment, linkage maintenance, bearing lubrication
Rear Brake System:
Rear brake caliper service, brake pad replacement, rotor specifications, bleeding procedures
Instrumentation:
Speedometer, tachometer, indicators, troubleshooting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake fluid flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, electrical system fault finding
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Installation:
Accessory installation guides, aftermarket part fitment considerations
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to full engine and chassis disassembly/reassembly
Diagnostic Level:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, specifications for electrical testing
Type:
4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve inline-four
Bore X Stroke:
62.0 mm x 49.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.7:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 94-98 hp @ 11,000 rpm (variant dependent)
Torque:
Approx. 45-47 lb-ft @ 9,000 rpm (variant dependent)
Carburetor Type:
4 x Mikuni CV (Constant Velocity) carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
4.76 US gallons (18 liters)
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG or higher, JASO MA) SAE 10W-40
Oil Capacity W Filter:
3.6 US qt (3.4 L)
Coolant Type:
50% Ethylene Glycol and 50% Distilled Water Mixture
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, coolant temperature warning light, oil pressure warning light, neutral indicator
ABS:
Not typically equipped with ABS during this generation.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (pre-smartphone era motorcycle)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Cleaning Or Replacement:
Every 6,000 miles (10,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km)
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Every 600 miles (1,000 km) or after riding in wet conditions
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Specification:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG or higher, JASO MA) SAE 10W-40
Coolant Specification:
50% Ethylene Glycol and 50% Distilled Water Mixture
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Fork Oil Type:
Yamaha Fork Oil (or equivalent SAE 10W)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, chain and sprockets, fork seals, brake pads
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to rectifier/regulator failure; intermittent electrical connections (stator)
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can require frequent synchronization and cleaning due to their complexity
Suspension Performance:
Stock suspension may be considered soft by aggressive riders; fork internals can wear