Historical Significance:
The Honda Fourtrax 250 was a pivotal model in the early development of the utility ATV market, establishing Honda's reputation for reliability and ruggedness.
Key Competitors Era:
Competed against models from Yamaha (like the YFM200 Moto-4) and Suzuki during its production run.
Selling Points:
Known for its dependable engine, robust chassis, and comfortable rider ergonomics for its time.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform accurate repairs and maintenance, preventing costly mistakes and ensuring longevity of the ATV.
Primary Users:
Honda Fourtrax 250 owners, DIY mechanics, ATV enthusiasts, restoration projects.
Engine System:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, performance checks, lubrication, cooling system, ignition system, starting system, charging system.
Transmission System:
Manual transmission repair, clutch operation and adjustment, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication.
Drivetrain System:
Shaft drive operation, differentials, axle maintenance and repair, CV joint servicing.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension design, shock absorber inspection and replacement, steering knuckle, control arm servicing, wheel alignment.
Braking System:
Drum brake system maintenance, adjustment, shoe replacement, hydraulic system (if applicable on later models, though likely drum on this era), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition coil, CDI unit, battery, starter motor, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), fuses, switches.
Fuel System:
Carburetor removal, cleaning, adjustment, fuel tank, fuel line maintenance, fuel filter replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fenders, handlebars, control cables.
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine design, cylinder head cooling fins, fan maintenance (if applicable).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, chain/drive shaft lubrication, air filter cleaning, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical problems.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation for all major systems.
Repair Instructions:
Detailed repair procedures for worn or damaged components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Covers basic to intermediate diagnostics, fault finding, and systematic troubleshooting.
Rebuild Procedures:
Includes procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Provides detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurement tolerances for critical components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes comprehensive, easy-to-read wiring diagrams for electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, OHV, air-cooled
Engine Displacement:
246 cc (Cubic Centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
68.0 mm x 68.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (Approximate, can vary slightly by specific sub-model/year)
Horsepower Output:
Approximately 16-18 HP @ 6,500 RPM (Estimate based on typical specifications for this engine size and era)
Torque Output:
Approximately 14-16 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM (Estimate)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin carburetor (specific model varies, e.g., PD4A or similar)
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank, 26mm carburetor bore
Ignition Type:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 API SE or SF classification motorcycle oil (preferred)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.6 US qt (1.5 Liters) (Check manual for exact figure)
Cooling Method:
Forced Air Cooling (Cylinder head and barrel cooling fins)
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual with automatic clutch
Reverse Gear:
Yes, typically a dedicated reverse gear.
Clutch Operation:
Semi-automatic clutch actuation (leverless operation).
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 SAE 80W gear oil (or equivalent motorcycle transmission oil)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.6 US qt (0.55 Liters) (Check manual for exact figure)
Overall Length:
Approximately 73.2 inches (1859 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 42.5 inches (1080 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 42.7 inches (1085 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 47.2 inches (1199 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 320 lbs (145 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 2.6 US gallons (9.8 Liters), including 0.5 gallon reserve
Front Tire Size:
AT23x8-11 (or similar)
Rear Tire Size:
AT24x10-9 (or similar)
Rear Brake Type:
Drum (with integrated parking brake)
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or 6 months (typical, check manual for exact)
Spark Plug Check Interval:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or annually
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Every 500 km (300 miles) or more frequently in dusty conditions
Transmission Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or annually
Engine Oil Viscosity Recommendation:
10W-30 (suitable for most operating temperatures)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (if hydraulic elements are present; typically drum brakes on this model)
Common Wear Items:
Brake shoes, steering tie rods, carburetor jets (clogging), suspension bushings, starter motor brushes.
Carburetor Performance:
Can be prone to gumming up if fuel sits for extended periods; requires periodic cleaning and adjustment.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues; manual will cover troubleshooting.