Positioning:
The Yamaha VMAX is a legendary 'muscle bike' known for its raw power, distinctive styling, and V4 engine.
Competitors:
Competed with other high-performance motorcycles of its era, often considered in a class of its own due to its unique characteristics.
Engine Configuration:
Longitudinal V4 engine, a hallmark of the VMAX.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on power delivery, distinctive cruiser-meets-sportbike styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, crucial for owners of this iconic machine.
Engine System:
Engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, carburetion, cooling system.
Transmission System:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shift mechanism.
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, starting system, charging system, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Braking System:
Brake fluid, caliper maintenance, rotor inspection, master cylinder, brake lines.
Suspension System:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber maintenance, linkage lubrication.
Steering System:
Handlebar assembly, steering head bearing service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, coolant specifications, thermostat operation.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, component mounting, swingarm service.
Exhaust System:
Muffler inspection, pipe routing, clamp torque.
Body And Trim:
Panel removal and installation, fairing components, seating.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug checks, brake fluid flushes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, fault finding procedures for common issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Carburetor Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling the VMAX's signature Mikuni carburetors.
Valve Adjustment:
Specifications and procedures for checking and adjusting valve clearances.
Fork Seal Replacement:
Guidance on replacing worn front fork oil seals.
Electrical Component Testing:
Procedures for testing the stator, regulator/rectifier, starter motor, etc.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including troubleshooting flowcharts and electrical schematics.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed rebuild procedures for major components like the engine and transmission.
Digital Format Features:
Searchable text, hyperlinked table of contents, printable pages.
Print Quality Description:
High-resolution diagrams and clear, legible text.
Binding Type Description:
For printed manuals: Professional binding (e.g., spiral bound or stitched) for durability in workshop environments.
Paper Type Description:
For printed manuals: Durable, coated paper to resist grease and workshop fluids.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, V-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1198 cc (73.1 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
76.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 145 HP @ 9000 rpm (rated at crankshaft)
Torque Est:
Approx. 94 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm (rated at crankshaft)
Carburetion:
Four Mikuni BDSR37 carburetors with Y.C.C.S. (Yamaha Computer Controlled Carburetor System)
Fuel Type Recommended:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher
Oil Type Spec:
Yamalube 4 20W-40 or equivalent API SG, JASO MA
Oil Capacity W Filter:
4.2 Liters (4.4 US qt)
Coolant Type:
Yamaha Coolant 50% solution or equivalent antifreeze/coolant
Ignition System:
TCBI (Transistor Controlled By Ignition)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9E or Denso U27ESR-N
Spark Plug Gap:
0.7 - 0.8 mm (0.028 - 0.031 in.)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multiple-disc, cable-actuated
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 2.46, 2nd: 1.84, 3rd: 1.46, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.04)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil 80W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5 equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
0.24 Liters (0.25 US qt)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months.
Air Filter Check:
Check every 6,000 km (3,700 miles); clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Check every 24,000 km (15,000 miles).
Coolant Specifications:
Yamaha Coolant 50% solution or equivalent.
Carburetor Sync:
Carburetors require periodic synchronization for optimal performance.
Charging System:
Stator and regulator/rectifier can be potential failure points over time, especially with high mileage.
Clutch Wear:
Heavy use can lead to clutch wear, requiring adjustment or replacement.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Regular lubrication of the shaft drive is essential to prevent wear.
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and performance.
Vmax Introduction:
The original VMAX (VMX1200) was introduced in 1985 and quickly became an icon.
Second Generation Changes:
The 2000 model falls within the second generation, which received updates over its long production run, often focused on refinements rather than radical redesigns.
Production Period:
The VMAX (VMX1200) was produced from 1985 until 2007, with the 2000 model being a well-established variant.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically manufactured in Japan.