Segment:
Performance Crossover/Mountain Snowmobile
Era:
Late 1990s performance snowmobile era
Competitors:
Arctic Cat ZR series, Ski-Doo Mach Z, Polaris Indy/XLT models of similar displacement
Off Road Capability:
Designed for deep snow and challenging mountain terrain
Engine Performance:
Emphasis on powerful two-stroke engines for climbing and acceleration
Suspension Design:
Advanced long-travel suspension systems for superior ride and handling in varied conditions
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, drive system (clutch, chaincase)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), skis, track, steering system, braking system
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, charging system, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes
Bodywork:
Body panels, seats, controls, storage
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, adjustments, inspections
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission repair, suspension overhaul, electrical system troubleshooting and repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Restoration:
Comprehensive guidance for complete disassembly and reassembly
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve induction
Displacement:
Approx. 597cc
Bore X Stroke:
Specifics require manual review, typically in the 70-80mm bore range
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM series carburetors (e.g., VM34 or VM38)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed valve induction
Displacement:
Approx. 698cc
Bore X Stroke:
Specifics require manual review, typically in the 80-83mm bore range
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM series carburetors (e.g., VM38 or VM40)
Horsepower 600:
Estimated 115-130 HP (dependent on tuning and specific model year)
Horsepower 700:
Estimated 130-145 HP (dependent on tuning and specific model year)
Torque:
Significant low-end and mid-range torque for climbing
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended, higher octane for optimal performance)
Oil Injection:
Yamaha Autolube (automatic oil injection system)
Oil Type:
Yamaha Premium 2-Stroke Outboard/Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent API-TC certified oil)
Length:
Typically around 110-120 inches (specifics vary by year/trim)
Width:
Typically around 48 inches (specifics vary by year/trim)
Height:
Typically around 45-50 inches (specifics vary by year/trim)
Storage:
Integrated storage compartment behind seat
Dry Weight:
Estimated 450-500 lbs (specifics vary by year/trim)
Width:
Standard 15 inches
Length:
Standard 133-136 inches
Lug Height:
Typically 1.5 to 2.0 inches for mountain performance
Crash Test:
N/A (Snowmobiles are not subject to automotive crash testing standards)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brake, often with a lightweight caliper and vented rotor
Throttle Limiter:
Not standard, but a common aftermarket safety accessory
Handwarmers And Thumbwarmer:
Standard, adjustable heat settings
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, taillight, brake light
Kill Switch Lanyard:
Standard tether cord safety switch
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, warning lights.
Lighting Control:
Manual headlight dimmer/selector.
Reverse Gear:
Some models may have a manual reverse system, others may not.
Diagnostic Ports:
Basic diagnostic capabilities via connector for specific sensor checks and potentially basic ECU interaction if equipped.
Oil Change:
Not applicable for 2-stroke oil injection system; monitor oil reservoir level regularly.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 1,000-2,000 miles or annually; refer to manual for specific plug gap and type.
Clutch Inspection And Cleaning:
Recommended annually or every 1,000 miles, particularly after aggressive use.
Track Tension Adjustment:
Check every 500 miles or as needed.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific capacity, typically around 3-4 liters.
Chaincase Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (GL-4 75W-90 or equivalent)
Chaincase Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual, typically around 200-250 ml.
Carburetor Icing:
Common in cold, humid conditions; manual provides troubleshooting for this.
Drive Clutch Wear:
Wear on buttons, rollers, and belt; manual covers inspection and replacement.
Suspension Bushings And Bearings:
Wear over time, requiring lubrication and replacement; manual details procedures.
Arctic Cat Clutch Roller Upgrade:
Some owners upgrade to more durable Arctic Cat clutch rollers; manual may reference compatibility or allow for such modifications.
Manufacturer:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, Japan
Specialization:
Long history in motorsports, including motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles
Predecessors:
Yamaha Exciter series, Vmax models
Successors:
Yamaha Apex, Nytro series
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan, with some assembly potentially in North America
Market Introduction:
The Mountain Max line was Yamaha's response to the growing demand for dedicated mountain sleds in the mid-to-late 1990s.
Industry Awards:
Specific awards for the Mountain Max are not widely publicized, but it was a highly regarded model in its class for performance and handling.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally positive for its intended purpose, praised for its climbing ability and suspension.
Emissions:
Meets EPA emissions standards for the respective model years.
