Market Position:
The Yamaha RD350 of this era was a celebrated performance sportbike, known for its potent two-stroke engine and agile handling. This manual serves the passionate owners and restorers who maintain these iconic machines.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restorers, and owners seeking to maintain their RD350 to factory specifications.
Competitive Analysis:
In its time, the RD350 competed with other performance-oriented sportbikes from manufacturers like Suzuki (RG series), Kawasaki (GPz series), and Honda (CBR series), offering a distinct two-stroke character and a strong enthusiast following.
Key Features:
Genuine factory manual, comprehensive coverage of all major systems, detailed step-by-step instructions with illustrations, advanced troubleshooting guide, wiring diagrams, downloadable and printable format.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour in shop labor costs.
Coverage Areas:
Complete factory service repair manual covering all aspects of maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair for Yamaha RD350 models from 1984-1986.
All Styles Covered:
Yes, the manual explicitly states 'ALL STYLES COVERED' for the 1984-1986 range.
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact number not specified but described as comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Manual Origin:
Actual Genuine Factory Repair Service Manuals (not third-party alternatives).
Delivery Method:
Digital Download link provided on checkout page after payment.
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Systems Covered:
General Information, Fuel System, Cooling System, Engine Top End, Clutch, Engine Lubrication System, Engine Removal/Installation, Crankshaft/Transmission, Wheels/Tires, Final Drive, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Frame, Electrical System, Appendix, Wiring Diagrams, Engine Management Systems.
Engine Top End:
Cylinder head, cylinder block, pistons, piston rings, reed valves, exhaust system, YPVS system.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (CDI), charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), lighting, starter motor, battery, wiring harness, diagnostic indicators.
Procedures Included:
Diagnosis of engine fault symptoms, repair approach evaluation, parts testing techniques, wiring diagram tracing and verification, understanding engine management systems, common fixes, pre-emptive maintenance tips, complete repair procedures, step-by-step instructions, advanced troubleshooting.
Tune Up Procedures:
Detailed procedures for carburetor synchronization, ignition timing adjustment, and YPVS system calibration for optimal performance.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures, including crankshaft and transmission overhaul.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and traceable wiring diagrams are included, essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical system issues.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers fundamentals to advanced diagnostics and repairs, mirroring information available to factory-trained technicians. Suitable for detailed rebuilds and restoration.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Advanced troubleshooting guide to diagnose and correct problems, including specific fault symptom analysis and repair strategies.
Searchable Text:
Yes, PDF format allows for easy searching of keywords and phrases within the document.
Print Quality:
High Resolution, Printable without restriction
Illustrations Quality:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos with enlarged insets for detailed part identification.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - printable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - user printable on desired paper)
Primary Engine:
2-stroke, parallel-twin cylinder, reed valve induction, liquid-cooled (specific engine codes vary by market, e.g., 4LO for some models).
Engine Cooling:
Liquid-cooled
Displacement:
Approximately 347cc
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 64.0 mm x 54.0 mm
Horsepower Approximate:
50-60 HP (depending on market and tuning)
Torque Approximate:
Approximately 35-40 Nm
Fuel System:
Dual Mikuni carburetors (typically VM34SS or similar) with Yamaha's patented YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System) for improved power delivery across the rev range.
Ypvs Description:
Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) electronically controlled exhaust port timing for improved torque and a broader powerband.
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable (motorcycle; safety ratings based on rider skill and adherence to safe riding practices)
Active Features:
Responsive braking system (dual front discs, single rear disc), balanced chassis for agile handling.
Passive Features:
Rider protection is primary (helmet, gear); the motorcycle itself is designed with a robust frame and components for stability.
Service Intervals:
The manual provides detailed schedules for routine maintenance, including oil changes (pre-mix or oil injection), spark plug checks, chain adjustments, brake inspections, and engine decarbonization, typically on intervals measured in thousands of miles or annual checks.
Engine Oil Type:
2-stroke engine oil, typically JASO FD or API TC rated, mixed with gasoline at specified ratios or via the autolube system. Specific oil injector oil specifications are detailed in the manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity and specific specifications are detailed.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid, depending on caliper specifications. Manual will specify exact requirement.
Transmission Oil Type:
Gear oil, typically SAE 80 or 90 GL-4 specification. Capacity and replacement intervals are detailed.
Known Issues:
Potential issues can include wear on reed valves, carburetor jetting sensitivity, exhaust port carbon buildup (especially with YPVS), premature crank bearing wear if lubrication is inadequate, and electrical component reliability over time. This manual addresses all these.
Common Fixes:
Provides common fixes and step-by-step guidance for addressing typical wear-and-tear issues, common part failures, and performance degradation.
Brand Heritage:
Yamaha has a long and storied history in motorsports and performance motorcycles, particularly known for its innovative two-stroke technology and racing success.
Model Evolution:
The RD350 lineage traces back to the iconic RD350 'Pistons Port' and evolved through various iterations, with the 1984-1986 models representing the RD350LC II/YPVS generation, which significantly enhanced performance and handling with the introduction of the Power Valve System.
Production Period:
The RD350 series was in production for many years globally, with the specific 1984-1986 models being a significant update to the line.
