Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range 4x4 utility ATV
Competitors 2000:
Honda FourTrax 300 4x4, Suzuki QuadRunner 250 4x4, Kawasaki Bayou 300 4x4
Feature 1:
Yamaha's reliable 250cc engine
Feature 2:
True 4x4 drivetrain for enhanced traction
Feature 3:
Comfortable riding position and utilitarian design
Feature 4:
Front and rear cargo racks for utility
Engine:
Starting (cold/warm), warming up, engine break-in, oil specifications, spark plug inspection, carburetor adjustment, idle speed adjustment, valve clearance adjustment
Transmission Drivetrain:
Shifting, drive select lever operation, reverse driving, transfer gear oil specifications, final gear oil specifications, differential gear oil specifications
Brakes:
Front brake lever free play adjustment, rear brake adjustment, front and rear brake shoe inspection
Electrical:
Main switch, handlebar switches, indicator lights, battery (fluid replenishment), fuse replacement, headlight beam adjustment, replacing headlight bulb
Chassis Suspension:
Rear shock absorber adjustment, tires (pressure measurement, wear limit), front axle boots inspection
Controls Features:
Throttle lever, speed limiter, front brake lever, rear brake pedal and lever, parking brake, shift pedal, drive select lever, recoil starter, fuel tank cap, fuel cock, starter choke, seat, storage box, front carrier, rear carrier
Pre Operation:
Pre-operation checks
Operation:
Starting a cold engine, starting a warm engine, warming up, to start out and accelerate, to decelerate, riding your vehicle, turning your vehicle, climbing uphill, riding downhill, crossing a slope, crossing through shallow water, riding over rough terrain, sliding and skidding
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance, lubrication, engine oil replacement, transfer gear oil replacement, final gear oil replacement, differential gear oil replacement, battery fluid replenishment, fuse replacement, spark plug inspection, air filter cleaning, spark arrester cleaning, wheel removal and installation, front axle boots inspection, brake shoe inspection, cable inspection
Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting chart, common problems
Depth:
Comprehensive for owner operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostics typical of a service manual.
Type:
Air-cooled, SOHC, 4-stroke
Displacement:
230cc (approximate)
Bore X Stroke:
67.0mm x 66.0mm (estimated)
Compression Ratio:
9.1:1 (estimated)
Horsepower:
Approx. 17-20 HP (estimated)
Torque:
Approx. 13-15 lb-ft (estimated)
Carburetor:
Mikuni VM26SS (likely)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or SAE 10W-30 API SE, SF, SG type motor oil)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.7L (1.8 US qt) with filter change (estimated)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh with automatic clutch and reverse
Drive System:
Shaft drive, On-Demand 4WD
Transfer Gear Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or SAE 80 API GL-4)
Final Gear Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or SAE 80 API GL-4)
Differential Gear Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or SAE 80 API GL-4)
Segment Safety:
ATVs are inherently risky; adherence to manual instructions is critical.
Active Safety 1:
Four-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability
Active Safety 2:
Throttle limiter for controlled acceleration
Passive Safety 1:
Handlebar-mounted controls for intuitive operation
Passive Safety 2:
Durable chassis construction
Essential Guidance:
Always wear a helmet, eye protection, gloves, and appropriate apparel. Read and understand the owner's manual before operating.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 600 miles (1000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 120 miles (200 km) or 6 months (more frequently in dusty conditions)
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 600 miles (1000 km) or 6 months
Gear Oil Change:
Every 1200 miles (2000 km) or 12 months
Engine Oil:
Yamalube 4 (or SAE 10W-30 API SE, SF, SG type)
Gear Oil:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or SAE 80 API GL-4)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Common Wear Items:
Brake shoes/pads, tires, spark plug, air filter, drive belts (if applicable to later models), wheel bearings.
Potential Problems:
Carburetor cleaning/adjustment may be needed over time, especially if fuel is left sitting. CDI unit or ignition system issues can occur with age. Suspension wear and tear.