Target User:
Recreational riders, hunters, farmers, and those needing a dependable workhorse.
Key Competitors:
Honda Foreman, Kawasaki Prairie, Polaris Sportsman.
Model Highlights:
Known for its ruggedness, reliability, selectable 4WD, and comfortable ride.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical knowledge for owners and technicians to maintain and repair the YFM400 Big Bear, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling system, ignition system, fuel system (carburetor tuning and maintenance), exhaust system, emissions control.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (CVT), gearcase, drive shafts, differentials (if applicable), clutches, maintenance, and repair procedures.
Chassis Suspension:
Frame inspection and repair, front and rear suspension (A-arms, shocks, bushings), steering system (handlebar, steering shaft, tie rods).
Braking System:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, hydraulic fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, pad replacement, rotor inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), lighting system (headlights, taillights, indicators), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), CDI unit, sensors.
Bodywork Plastics:
Fender removal and installation, seat removal, fuel tank and shroud maintenance, handlebar assembly, grip replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, lubrication points, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable), brake adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification (e.g., starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major systems like the engine, transmission, and suspension.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for engine performance issues, electrical system faults, and drivetrain problems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive guides for full engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension component replacement.
Specifications Tolerances:
Precise technical data including torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 71.5 mm
Valve Clearance Intake Cold:
0.09 - 0.14 mm (0.0035 - 0.0055 in)
Valve Clearance Exhaust Cold:
0.12 - 0.17 mm (0.0047 - 0.0067 in)
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 21 HP @ 5500 RPM (Industry standard, specific Yamaha figures may vary slightly)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 24 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (Industry standard, specific Yamaha figures may vary slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor
Carburetor Model:
Mikuni BSR33/1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 AKI (Octane Rating)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
13.5 L (3.57 gal)
Engine Oil Type:
Yamalube 4 (or equivalent SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
2.20 L (2.32 US qt)
Engine Oil Capacity Wo Filter:
2.00 L (2.11 US qt)
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR6HSA / DENSO U20FSR-U
Spark Plug Gap:
0.6 - 0.7 mm (0.024 - 0.028 in)
Transmission Type:
Automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drive System:
Shaft drive, Selectable 4WD with 2WD/4WD switch
Gear Reduction Ratio Low:
3.596:1
Gear Reduction Ratio High:
2.888:1
Final Drive:
Bevel gear and drive shaft
Gearcase Oil Type:
Yamalube Gear Oil (or SAE 80 hypoid gear oil)
Gearcase Oil Capacity:
0.42 L (0.44 US qt)
Safety Certification:
Meets ANSI standards for recreational ATVs (American National Standards Institute).
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear.
Parking Brake:
Handlebar-mounted mechanical parking brake.
Lighting:
Dual 30W Krypton headlights, 8W/23W brake/tail light.
Hand Guards:
Integrated hand guards for rider protection.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation panel (speedometer, odometer, hour meter, fuel gauge, 2WD/4WD indicator).
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited; primarily relies on rider input and mechanical capabilities. Selectable 4WD is a key feature.
Connectivity Options:
None (No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).
Initial Service:
First service recommended at 10 hours or 1 month of operation (check oil, tighten fasteners, inspect air filter).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or if conditions are dusty, clean more frequently. Replace as needed.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Inspect every 3,000 km (1,800 miles). Replace if necessary.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years or 18,000 miles (11,000 miles).
Coolant Type:
Not applicable (Air-cooled engine)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
CVT belt wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, carburetor jetting issues in varied altitudes.
Potential Problems:
Carburetor flooding/poor idling (requires cleaning/adjustment), drive shaft spline wear under heavy use, rear differential seal leaks.
Manufacturer Heritage:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, established in 1955, is a global leader in powersports vehicles, renowned for innovation, quality, and performance.
Big Bear Lineage:
The Big Bear line has a long history, evolving from earlier utility ATV models, emphasizing durability and user-friendliness.
Yfm400 Introduction:
The YFM400 Big Bear was introduced in the early 2000s, building upon the success of previous Big Bear models with updated styling and features.
Production Period:
YFM400 Big Bear models were produced roughly between 2000 and 2006.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Yamaha.