Description:
The Yamaha VMAX is an iconic muscle cruiser, renowned for its powerful V4 engine and distinctive styling. This manual caters to owners and mechanics looking to maintain and repair this legendary machine.
Comparable Models:
Honda Magna V4, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Intruder series (though the VMAX occupied a unique performance niche)
Vehicle Highlights:
Massive V4 engine, iconic 'muscle bike' styling, strong acceleration, shaft drive
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and carry out repairs, saving on professional service costs and ensuring proper upkeep.
Engine:
V-Four 2-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, V4
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni 35mm CV) service, tuning, and diagnosis
Ignition System:
CDI, timing, troubleshooting
Transmission:
5-speed, clutch assembly, gearbox operation, maintenance
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system inspection and maintenance
Suspension:
Front telescopic forks (preload, damping adjustments), rear Monoshock (linkage, preload adjustments)
Brakes:
Front dual disc, Rear single disc, hydraulic system service, pad replacement, bleeding
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, lighting, starter motor, battery service
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, thermostat, coolant specifications and service
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, fairings, seat, tank removal and installation
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug checks, lubrication, chain adjustment (if applicable to later models, though 94 is shaft drive), air filter service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension fork rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component replacement
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and reinstallation
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Type:
1198cc, 70 cubic inch, Liquid-cooled, 70-degree V-Four, DOHC, 16-valve
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Horsepower Est:
145 hp @ 8000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Est:
94 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Carburetors:
Four Mikuni BST35CV constant-velocity carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating 87
Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent API SG, SAE 20W-40) motorcycle oil
Oil Capacity W Filter:
4.6 L (4.9 US qt)
Type:
Constant mesh 5-speed
Gear Ratios:
1st: 2.133, 2nd: 1.587, 3rd: 1.250, 4th: 1.045, 5th: 0.879
Clutch Type:
Wet, multiple-disc
Transmission Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or equivalent SAE 80 API GL-4)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
0.35 L (0.37 US qt)
Safety Features:
N/A (Motorcycle, primary safety relies on rider skill and maintenance)
Braking System:
Front: Dual Hydraulic Disc, Rear: Hydraulic Disc
Lighting:
Halogen Headlight, LED Taillight, Incandescent Turn Signals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months
Oil Filter Replacement:
Every 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months (concurrent with oil change)
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 6,000 miles (10,000 km)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km)
Shaft Drive Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Coolant Type:
Yamaha Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors), mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, fork seals, aging rubber components (hoses, intake boots)
Carburetor Trouble:
Potential for gumming if fuel sits, requiring cleaning and synchronization.
Cooling System:
Regular coolant flushes are important to prevent corrosion and maintain efficiency.
Yamaha Legacy:
Yamaha Motor Company, founded in 1955, has a rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and performance.
Vmax Development:
The VMAX, initially codenamed 'Project X', debuted in 1985 as a radical concept bike brought to production, redefining the power cruiser segment.
Production Period:
First Generation: 1985-2007 (with various updates)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
