1986 Honda 250SX Manual

The 1986 Honda 250SX is a three-wheeled all-terrain vehicle featuring a 246cc four-stroke engine, five-speed transmission with reverse, shaft drive, front and rear suspension, front and rear hydraulic brakes, electric start, and utility rack. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Basic Maintenance Procedures 7. Troubleshooting 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 246cc OHC air-cooled engine, five-speed transmission with reverse, shaft drive system, front and rear suspension, hydraulic disc brakes.

Feature	Description
Engine	246cc four-stroke, air-cooled, OHC
Transmission	5-speed with reverse
Drive System	Shaft drive
Suspension	Front and rear independent suspension
Brakes	Front and rear hydraulic disc
Starting System	Electric start with backup recoil
Fuel Capacity	2.6 gallons
Utility Rack	Front and rear cargo racks
Tires	Front: 23x8-11, Rear: 22x11-8
Weight	348 lbs

Safety Information

Always wear proper safety gear and follow operating guidelines.

Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
Never carry passengers - designed for one rider only.
Avoid paved surfaces - not designed for road use.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts during operation.
Do not operate on public roads or highways.

WARNING! ATVs can be hazardous to operate. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Always complete safety training course.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Starting: Turn key to ON, set choke if cold, press brake, push start button.
Shifting: Use left foot lever - neutral between 2nd and 3rd gears.
Reverse: Come to complete stop, pull reverse lever, shift to R position.
Brakes: Use both front and rear brakes together for maximum stopping power.
Lights: Headlight, taillight, and neutral/reverse indicator lights.

CAUTION! Always use both brakes. Practice in open area before riding in challenging terrain.

Specifications

Engine Type: 246cc air-cooled four-stroke OHC
Bore x Stroke: 66mm x 72mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Carburetor: 24mm piston valve
Ignition: CDI
Transmission: 5-speed with reverse
Drive Train: Shaft drive
Suspension Travel: Front 5.9 in, Rear 6.7 in
Brakes: Dual hydraulic disc
Dimensions: 72.4" L x 42.5" W x 42.1" H
Ground Clearance: 6.7 inches

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Service Item	Every 100 mi	Every 500 mi	Every 1000 mi
Engine Oil	✓	✓	✓
Oil Filter		✓
Air Filter	✓		✓
Spark Plug		✓
Brake Fluid	✓		✓
Drive Shaft Oil			✓
Valve Clearance			✓

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Engine Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 1.9 quarts 10W-40.

Air Filter: Remove cover, clean foam element with solvent, re-oil with air filter oil.
Spark Plug: Remove old plug, gap to 0.6-0.7mm, install new NGK DR8ES-L plug.
Brake Inspection: Check pad wear, fluid level, bleed if spongy.
Tire Pressure: Maintain 3.5 psi front, 3.0 psi rear for normal riding.
Drive Chain: Lubricate every 100 miles, adjust tension as needed.

Tip: Always use genuine Honda parts for optimal performance and reliability.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, compression	Check fuel level, spark plug, choke setting, battery charge
Hard shifting	Clutch adjustment	Adjust clutch cable free play to 10-20mm
Poor performance	Air filter, carburetor	Clean air filter, check carburetor jets
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Check battery voltage, clean terminals, test stator
Brake problems	Fluid, pads, air in system	Check fluid level, pad wear, bleed brakes if needed

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for complex repairs.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine 10 minutes, turn fuel valve OFF.
Battery: Remove battery, store fully charged in cool, dry location.
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure, elevate off ground if possible.
Cleaning: Wash thoroughly, apply protectant to plastic and rubber parts.
Cover: Use breathable cover in dry, well-ventilated area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor float bowl - drain completely.

Warranty Information

1986 Honda 250SX includes limited warranty coverage. Consult your dealer for specific terms. Always use genuine Honda parts to maintain warranty coverage. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims.

For technical support or parts: Contact authorized Honda dealer or American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Customer Relations at 1-800-999-1009.