Motorcycle Class:
Mid-size four-cylinder sportbike, popular in the early 1980s for its blend of performance and street usability.
Key Competitors:
Honda CB450DX, Yamaha XJ400, Kawasaki GPZ400.
Engine Layout:
DOHC inline-four cylinder engine, known for smooth power delivery and a distinctive exhaust note.
Handling:
Tuned for a balance of sport riding and everyday comfort, typically featuring a competent suspension system for its era.
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners and technicians to maintain, repair, and preserve the operational integrity and value of the GSX400F.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system
Fuel System:
Carburetor removal, cleaning, adjustment, fuel lines, fuel tank
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, CDI unit, coils
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear shift mechanism
Drivetrain:
Final drive chain adjustment, sprocket wear inspection
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, caliper maintenance, brake fluid replacement
Suspension:
Front forks (damping, seals, oil), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starter motor, battery maintenance, charging system
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, removal/installation of body panels, seat, handlebars
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure, wheel bearing inspection, spoke tensioning (if applicable)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts for common performance issues
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation
Repair Procedures:
Detailed guidance on fixing worn or damaged components
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor synchronization, valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing
Performance Tuning:
Guidance on optimizing engine performance within specifications
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and digital viewing
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity
Physical Binding:
N/A (for digital format, but if printed, would be spiral-bound or similar for lay-flat use)
Physical Paper:
N/A (for digital format, but if printed, would typically be durable paper for workshop use)
Engine Type:
4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve per cylinder, air-cooled inline-four
Displacement:
398 cc (24.3 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
54.0 mm x 41.2 mm (approx.)
Power Output:
Approximately 46-50 PS (33-37 kW) at 10,500 rpm (varies by market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approximately 34-36 Nm (25-26.5 lb-ft) at 9,500 rpm (approx.)
Carburetion:
Four Mikuni VM20SS or similar constant-velocity carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating 90 (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF motorcycle-specific engine oil
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 liters (2.7 US qt) with filter change
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic advance
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9E or Denso equivalent
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,145 mm (84.4 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 760 mm (29.9 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,440 mm (56.7 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 179 kg (395 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 198 kg (436 lbs) with all fluids
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 16.0 liters (4.2 US gal), including reserve
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings were not standardized or widely published in this era)
Braking System:
Front: Dual hydraulic disc brakes. Rear: Single hydraulic disc brake.
Suspension Stability:
Tuned suspension for predictable handling under acceleration and braking.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights. Basic but functional for the era.
ABS:
N/A (Anti-lock Braking Systems were not available on this model).
Smart Features:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features).
Efi:
N/A (Carbureted engine management system).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact Suzuki recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,200 miles). (Refer to manual for exact Suzuki recommendation).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-12,000 km (6,200-7,500 miles). (Refer to manual for exact Suzuki recommendation).
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and check tension every 500-1,000 km (300-600 miles).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific Suzuki recommendation).
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W fork oil, capacity specified per fork leg in manual.
Carburetor Issues:
Diaphragm degradation and jet clogging are common issues due to age and fuel quality. Requires regular cleaning and rebuilding.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded connectors, aging wiring insulation, and rectifier/regulator issues can manifest. Thorough inspection of the wiring harness is crucial.
Suspension Wear:
Front fork seals and bushings can wear, leading to leaks. Rear shock absorbers may lose damping over time.
Engine Gaskets:
Aging engine gaskets can lead to minor oil leaks, particularly around the cylinder head and crankcase.
Suzuki Legacy:
Suzuki has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles across various classes.
Gsx Series Context:
The GSX series represented Suzuki's push into multi-valve, DOHC engines during the early 1980s, offering a significant performance upgrade over previous models.
Production Period:
The GSX400F variant was primarily produced for the Japanese domestic market (JDM) and some export markets in the early to mid-1980s.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
