1986 Honda Fat Cat Manual

The 1986 Honda Fat Cat is a rugged, versatile ATV designed for off-road adventures with its distinctive fat tires, reliable 4-stroke engine, and durable construction. This manual covers essential information for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Assembly 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Procedures 7. Riding Instructions 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-stroke air-cooled engine, fat low-pressure tires, manual transmission, front and rear suspension, electric start with backup kick starter.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	4-stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	198cc
Transmission	5-speed manual with reverse
Tire Size	Front: 25x12-9, Rear: 25x12-9
Starting System	Electric with kick starter backup
Suspension	Telescopic front fork, swingarm rear
Brakes	Drum brakes front and rear
Fuel Capacity	2.4 gallons
Weight	298 lbs
Seat Height	31.5 inches

Installation & Assembly

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on level ground with proper tools.

Handlebar installation: Attach handlebars to triple clamp, tighten bolts to specification.
Wheel mounting: Install front and rear wheels, ensuring proper alignment.
Battery connection: Connect positive then negative terminals, secure battery.
Fluid checks: Verify engine oil level, add fuel as needed.

WARNING! ATV is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are properly torqued.

First-Time Setup

Complete pre-ride inspection before initial operation.

Fluid levels: Check engine oil, brake fluid, coolant if applicable.
Tire pressure: Inflate to recommended PSI (front: 3.6 psi, rear: 3.6 psi).
Battery: Charge fully before first use.
Controls: Verify throttle, brakes, clutch operation.
Break-in period: Follow recommended break-in procedure for first 10 hours.

CAUTION! Always wear proper safety gear. Never operate without helmet and protective clothing.

Specifications

Engine: 198cc 4-stroke SOHC air-cooled single cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 66mm x 58mm
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Fuel System: Carburetor
Ignition: CDI
Transmission: 5-speed manual with reverse
Final Drive: Chain
Suspension Travel: Front: 5.9 in, Rear: 5.9 in
Ground Clearance: 7.1 inches
Dimensions: 76.4" L x 42.5" W x 42.9" H

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before riding.

Main Controls: Throttle, front/rear brake levers, clutch lever, gear shift lever, ignition switch, choke, fuel valve.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator. Starting Procedure: Turn fuel valve ON, set choke for cold starts, pull clutch, press start button or use kick starter. Shifting: Use clutch for smooth gear changes. Always start in neutral.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Engine oil: Change every 100 hours or 6 months
Oil filter: Replace with oil change
Air filter: Clean every 50 hours, replace as needed
Spark plug: Check gap every 100 hours, replace annually
Chain: Lubricate regularly, adjust tension as needed
Brakes: Check pads/shoes, fluid level monthly
Tires: Check pressure before each ride, inspect for damage

Tip: Keep maintenance log for service intervals.

Riding Instructions

Proper riding technique ensures safety and extends vehicle life.

Mounting: Approach from left side, maintain three points of contact.
Starting: Ensure in neutral, apply brakes, start engine.
Shifting: Pull clutch, shift smoothly, release clutch gradually.
Braking: Use both brakes evenly, avoid locking wheels.
Turning: Lean into turns, look where you want to go.
Hills: Approach straight on, maintain momentum.
Obstacles: Stand on pegs, keep weight centered.
Stopping: Shift to neutral, apply parking brake on inclines.

WARNING! Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Always ride responsibly.

Safety Features

Key safety systems: Engine cutoff switch, neutral safety switch, parking brake, reflectors.

Care & Storage

Proper storage prevents damage and maintains readiness.

Short-term: Clean after use, check fluid levels, cover vehicle. Long-term: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine briefly, disconnect battery, store in dry location. Cleaning: Use mild soap and water, avoid high-pressure spray near seals and bearings.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor. Drain or use stabilizer.

Regulatory Information

EPA/CARB compliant for off-road use only. Not for highway use. Always follow local regulations for ATV operation. For support, contact Honda Customer Service at 1-866-784-1870 or visit www.honda.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, compression	Check fuel valve, choke setting, spark plug, battery charge.
Poor performance	Air filter, carburetor	Clean air filter, check fuel flow, adjust carburetor.
Hard shifting	Clutch adjustment, oil level	Adjust clutch cable, check transmission oil.
Brakes weak	Pads, fluid, adjustment	Inspect brake pads, check fluid level, adjust cables.
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Test battery, check all electrical connections.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 seconds to reset electrical system.

Service: 1-866-784-1870; www.honda.com