Market Position:
The 1997 Yamaha Mountain Max was positioned as a high-performance, mountain-specific snowmobile, designed for aggressive riding in deep snow and challenging terrain. It competed against other premium mountain sleds from manufacturers like Ski-Doo and Arctic Cat.
Competitive Analysis:
The Mountain Max line was known for its robust chassis, powerful engines, and rider-forward ergonomics, offering a balanced package for both climbing and descending mountain trails. Its liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engines provided reliable power delivery.
Key Features:
Powerful 600cc and 700cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engines, advanced Pro-Action suspension system for superior ride and handling, lightweight chassis for maneuverability, comfortable rider position, reliable Yamaha build quality.
Systems Covered:
Engine (600cc & 700cc variants), Fuel System, Ignition System, Drive System (Clutch, Belt, Track), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Chassis, Bodywork, Carburetion, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Recoil Starter, Electric Starter (if equipped).
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Major Component Overhaul, Engine Rebuild, Clutch Adjustment & Replacement, Carburetor Service & Tuning, Suspension Service, Brake System Bleeding & Repair, Electrical Diagnostics, Chassis Lubrication, Track & Skidframe Maintenance, Belt Replacement & Inspection, Snowmobile Setup & Adjustment.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to detailed engine disassembly, internal component specifications, and advanced diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type 600:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve, parallel twin.
Bore X Stroke 600:
73 mm x 73 mm
Engine Type 700:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve, parallel twin.
Bore X Stroke 700:
82 mm x 64.2 mm
Horsepower 600:
Approximately 100-110 HP (varies slightly by tuning and specific model variant).
Horsepower 700:
Approximately 115-130 HP (varies slightly by tuning and specific model variant).
Fuel System:
Carbureted. Typically dual Mikuni VM series carburetors (e.g., VM34 or VM36 for 600, VM38 or VM40 for 700).
Ignition System:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic advance.
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled with thermostat-controlled fan and radiator.
Lubrication System:
Oil injection system (Yamaha Autolube) for premixing oil with fuel, plus crankcase lubrication.
Transmission Type:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with YVTC (Yamaha Variable Transmission Control) for optimal power delivery.
Clutch System:
Yamaha Primary Drive Clutch (often a G-drive clutch) and Secondary Driven Clutch (often a roller cam clutch).
Gear Ratios:
Variable, managed by the CVT system.
Drive Chain Type:
Enclosed chaincase with oil lubrication.
Exterior Length:
Approximately 115-120 inches (292-305 cm), dependent on track length.
Exterior Width:
Approximately 45-47 inches (114-119 cm) at the skis.
Track Length:
Typically 133-136 inches (338-345 cm).
Track Width:
Typically 15 inches (38 cm).
Lug Height:
Standard mountain lugs, often 1.5 - 2.0 inches (38-51 mm).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 450-500 lbs (204-227 kg).
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Snowmobiles are not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA in the same way as passenger cars).
Active Features:
Hydraulic disc brake, kill switch tether cord, rearview mirrors.
Passive Features:
Reinforced chassis construction, adequate lighting (headlights, taillights, brake lights).
Initial Service:
First service typically around 10-20 hours or 300-500 miles (500-800 km), focusing on clutch inspection, drive belt check, lubrication, and general inspection.
Regular Maintenance:
Includes checking and adjusting chain tension, inspecting and replacing drive belts as needed, greasing suspension and steering components, checking coolant levels, cleaning air filters, inspecting spark plugs, and verifying carburetor settings at intervals specified in the manual (e.g., every 100-200 hours).
Engine Oil Type:
Specific 2-stroke synthetic or semi-synthetic oil blended with gasoline. The manual will specify Yamaha's recommended oil or equivalent JASO FD or ISO-L-EGD certified oil.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50 mix) for freeze protection. Manual will specify specific requirements.
Chaincase Oil:
Yamaha Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 80 or 85W-90 gear oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Known Issues:
Common for older 2-stroke engines to experience wear on crank seals, piston rings, and cylinder walls. Clutch wear and belt slippage can occur with heavy use. Carburetor tuning can be sensitive to altitude and temperature. Yamaha's oil injection systems generally reliable but require proper maintenance.
Spark Plug Recommendation
Spark Plug Type:
Typically NGK BR9ES or equivalent.
Drive Belt Recommendation
Drive Belt Part Number:
Yamaha part numbers vary, but common replacements often include belts like Yamaha 8CE-17641-00-00 or Gates 02-2007 (verify exact fitment).
Brand Heritage:
Yamaha has a long and storied history in snowmobiling, dating back to the 1960s. The brand is renowned for its engineering prowess, reliable engines, and innovative designs, particularly in the high-performance and mountain segments.
Model Evolution:
The Mountain Max series was Yamaha's flagship offering for aggressive mountain riding. Building on previous chassis and engine technologies, the 1997 models represented a refinement of their mountain-specific platform, aiming to provide enhanced performance and handling in deep powder and steep ascents.
Production Years:
The Yamaha Mountain Max line was produced for several years, with significant iterations and updates throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s. The 1997 model year was a key year in its development.
