Segment:
Performance Snowmobiles
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, recreational riders, and professional mechanics.
Key Competitors Era:
Arctic Cat (e.g., Thundercat), Ski-Doo (e.g., Mach series), Polaris (e.g., XCR series).
Performance Heritage:
The VMAX series is renowned for its powerful engines and performance-oriented design, often referred to as 'muscle sleds'.
Manual Advantage:
Provides comprehensive, manufacturer-specific information crucial for maintaining and repairing these high-performance machines accurately.
Systems Covered:
Engine, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (CVT), drive train, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes, electrical system (ignition, lighting, charging), chassis, body panels, instruments, accessories.
Procedures Included:
Disassembly, repair, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, maintenance, adjustments, specifications, diagrams, torque values, wiring schematics.
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 400-500 pages (typical for this era and scope)
Manual Type:
Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly, including cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing components, and valve train (if applicable).
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni VM series likely) tuning, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel pump operation, fuel tank, fuel lines, and filters.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant flow, thermostat operation, and flushing procedures.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump operation, oil injection system (if applicable), oil reservoir, and oil change procedures.
Transmission Drivetrain:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system, including primary and secondary clutch inspection, service, and replacement. Drive belt inspection and replacement. Chaincase lubrication and maintenance.
Suspension Steering:
Front ski suspension (e.g., trailing arm or telescopic), rear suspension (e.g., slide rail), shock absorber service, steering linkage, and handlebar assembly.
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brake system, caliper service, master cylinder, brake lines, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Ignition:
CDI ignition system, ignition coils, spark plugs, troubleshooting ignition issues, wiring diagrams, lighting system (headlights, taillights, brake lights), charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator).
Chassis Bodywork:
Frame inspection, tunnel, skis, track maintenance, seat removal, hood removal, and body panel alignment.
Instruments Controls:
Speedometer, tachometer, warning lights, throttle cable, brake lever, and hand warmer controls.
Routine Maintenance:
Spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, drive belt inspection, chaincase oil change, track tension adjustment, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues such as no-start conditions, poor performance, electrical failures, and braking problems.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, carburetor overhauls, clutch servicing, suspension repairs, and electrical component replacement.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Yamaha-specific or common automotive tools required for specific procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Comprehensive diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause tables, and electrical troubleshooting flowcharts.
Rebuild Completeness:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine, transmission, and component rebuilds, including component tolerances and specifications.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Exploded diagrams for all major assemblies, clearly illustrating part identification and order of disassembly/assembly. Wiring diagrams are also included.
Engine Type 500:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve, triple cylinder
Engine Type 600:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve, triple cylinder
Engine Type 700:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve, triple cylinder
Bore Stroke 500:
Approx. 73.0 mm x 64.0 mm
Bore Stroke 600:
Approx. 73.0 mm x 73.0 mm
Bore Stroke 700:
Approx. 80.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Horsepower 500:
Approx. 95-100 HP
Horsepower 600:
Approx. 110-115 HP
Horsepower 700:
Approx. 125-130 HP
Carburetion:
Triple Mikuni VM series carburetors (e.g., VM34 or VM38)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum, premium recommended for optimal performance)
Oil System:
Yamaha Acci-Dent 2-stroke oil injection system
Overall Length:
Varies by specific model, typically around 110-115 inches
Overall Width:
Varies by specific model, typically around 45-48 inches
Track Width:
Varies by specific model, typically around 39-42 inches
Dry Weight:
Varies by specific model, typically around 500-550 lbs
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 6.4 gallons (including reserve)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (oil injection reservoir)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 1,000-1,500 miles or annually. Check manual for specific NGK part number (e.g., BR9ES or similar).
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect before each ride for wear, cracks, and proper tension. Replace as needed.
Chaincase Oil Change:
Every 1,000-1,500 miles or annually. Use recommended Yamalube Gear Oil or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-5.
Clutch Service:
Inspect primary and secondary clutches for wear, damage, and proper movement at 2,000-3,000 mile intervals or as needed.
Engine Oil:
Yamaha Acci-Dent 2-stroke oil (or equivalent API-TC certified 2-stroke oil for injection).
Chaincase Oil:
Yamalube Gear Oil 80W-90 API GL-5 or equivalent.
Coolant:
Yamaha All-Weather Biodegradable Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific type).
Clutch Wear:
Primary and secondary clutch wear, particularly roller bearings and clutch sheaves, is common with high mileage. Proper maintenance is key.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can become gummed up if not stored properly, leading to starting and running issues. Regular cleaning and proper fuel stabilizer use is recommended.
Crankshaft Seals:
Leaking crankshaft seals can lead to air leaks, poor performance, and excessive oil consumption.
