Positioning:
The 1991 Yamaha YZ250 was a top-tier motocross machine, known for its potent 2-stroke power delivery and competitive chassis. This manual targets owners and mechanics seeking in-depth knowledge for maintaining and repairing this specific model.
Competitors:
Competed directly with other 250cc motocross bikes of the era, such as the Honda CR250R, Kawasaki KX250, and Suzuki RM250.
Bike Features:
Liquid-cooled 2-stroke engine, aggressive styling, advanced suspension for its time, strong performance characteristics favored by racers.
Value Proposition:
Essential for anyone looking to perform in-depth maintenance, diagnosis, or restoration on a 1991 Yamaha YZ250, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Workshop Procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Maintenance Schedules, Technical Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-500 pages (typical for this era and type of manual)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Top-end rebuild (cylinder, piston, rings), bottom-end rebuild (crankshaft, bearings), carburetor tuning and overhaul, ignition system (CDI, spark plug), cooling system (air-cooled), exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox overhaul, gear selection mechanisms, lubrication.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring replacement), rear shock absorber service and adjustment, swingarm and linkage maintenance, steering system overhaul.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic brake system service (fluid replacement, caliper overhaul, master cylinder maintenance), brake pad replacement, rotor inspection.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system maintenance, ignition coil testing, battery maintenance, component testing (switches, sensors).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank maintenance, fuel line inspection, fuel filter replacement (if applicable), carburetor jetting and settings.
Bodywork And Frame:
Panel removal and installation, seat maintenance, handlebar and control adjustments, frame inspection.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance checks, lubrication points and intervals, filter replacements, fluid level checks, general tune-up procedures.
Repair:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for all major components, component-specific repair instructions, troubleshooting guides for common failures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trees for common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and operational anomalies.
Technical Data:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine timings, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic information.
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve inducted
Displacement:
249cc (approx.)
Bore X Stroke:
Refer to Manual for Specific Dimensions (e.g., 68.0 mm x 68.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Refer to Manual for Specific Ratio (e.g., 7.9:1)
Horsepower:
Approx. 45-50 HP (estimated, actual figures vary)
Torque:
Refer to Manual for Specific Torque Figures
Carburetor Model:
Mikuni VM Series (e.g., VM38SS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline with 2-stroke oil premix
Premix Ratio:
Refer to Manual for Recommended Ratio (typically 20:1 or 32:1)
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Type:
Premix or Autolube system (refer to manual for specific configuration)
Type:
6-speed constant mesh manual transmission
Type:
N/A (Standard configuration for this model)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
Refer to Manual for Specific Gear Ratios
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamalube 10W or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80 hypoid gear oil (refer to manual for exact specification)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Refer to Manual for Specific Capacity (e.g., 0.8 L)
Overall Length:
Refer to Manual for Specific Dimensions
Overall Width:
Refer to Manual for Specific Dimensions
Overall Height:
Refer to Manual for Specific Dimensions
Wheelbase:
Refer to Manual for Specific Wheelbase
Dry Weight:
Approx. 98 kg (216 lbs) (typical for this model)
Wet Weight:
Refer to Manual for Specific Wet Weight
Front Tire Size:
80/100-21 46M (typical)
Rear Tire Size:
110/90-18 61M (typical)
Front Wheel:
21-inch spoke wheel
Rear Wheel:
18-inch spoke wheel
Air Filter Cleaning:
After every few rides, depending on conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Spark Plug Inspection:
Regular inspection and replacement as needed (refer to manual for recommended replacement interval).
Oil Change Transmission:
Every 10-15 hours of operation or annually (refer to manual for precise interval).
Fork Oil Change:
Recommended every 15-20 hours of operation or annually.
Piston Ring Replacement:
Typically recommended every 30-50 hours of hard riding for optimal performance, or as indicated by compression loss.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix of distilled water (refer to manual for exact specification).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).
2 Stroke Oil Type:
High-quality 2-stroke racing oil designed for premix or injection systems (refer to manual).
Common Problems:
Worn crankcase seals leading to air leaks, carburetor jetting sensitivity to altitude and temperature, clutch wear, suspension seal leaks, exhaust power valve sticking (if equipped).
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly clean the air filter, check for air leaks, maintain correct fuel/oil mix, adjust carburetor for conditions, and perform timely transmission oil changes.
Heritage:
Yamaha has a long and successful history in motorcycle racing, particularly in motocross, with the YZ series being a cornerstone of their off-road performance lineup.
Evolution:
The YZ250 has undergone continuous evolution since its inception, with each generation introducing advancements in engine technology, suspension, and chassis design. The 1991 model represented a significant iteration in this development cycle.
Production Period:
The YZ250 has been in continuous production for decades, with the 1991 model belonging to a generation that saw strong competition and refinement.
Racing Impact:
YZ models have a storied racing history, contributing to numerous championships and setting performance benchmarks in their respective classes.