1986 Honda Fourtrax Manual 250

The 1986 Honda Fourtrax 250 is a versatile all-terrain vehicle featuring a 246cc four-stroke engine, shaft drive system, electric start, reverse gear, independent rear suspension, and durable construction. This manual covers safety precautions, operation procedures, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for proper ownership and care of your ATV.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Operation Instructions 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Basic Maintenance Procedures 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 246cc four-stroke engine, shaft drive, electric start, reverse gear, independent rear suspension, front and rear racks.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	246cc air-cooled four-stroke OHC
Drive System	Shaft drive with reverse
Starting System	Electric start with backup recoil
Suspension	Independent rear suspension
Brakes	Front and rear drum brakes
Fuel Capacity	2.6 gallons
Transmission	5-speed with reverse
Tires	Front: 22x11-8, Rear: 22x12-9
Load Capacity	330 lbs total
Dry Weight	396 lbs

Safety Precautions

Always wear proper safety gear and follow operating guidelines.

Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.
Do not carry passengers - designed for one rider only.
Avoid paved surfaces - not designed for road use.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! ATV can be hazardous to operate. Always follow safety guidelines and never exceed your skill level.

Operation Instructions

Proper starting and operating procedures for optimal performance.

Pre-ride inspection: Check tires, controls, lights, oil level.
Starting: Turn fuel valve ON, set choke, turn key to START position.
Shifting: Use clutch lever, shift smoothly through gears.
Reverse: Come to complete stop, shift to reverse position.
Stopping: Apply both brakes evenly, downshift progressively.

CAUTION! Allow engine to warm up before operating. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 246cc 4-stroke OHC, air-cooled
Bore x Stroke: 66.0mm x 72.0mm
Compression Ratio: 9.2:1
Carburetor: 22mm piston valve
Ignition: CDI electronic
Transmission: 5-speed with reverse
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension Travel: Front 5.9 in, Rear 6.7 in
Ground Clearance: 6.7 inches
Fuel: Unleaded gasoline 86 octane or higher

Controls and Instruments

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Handlebar Controls: Throttle, front brake lever, clutch lever, ignition switch, light switch, choke lever.

Foot Controls: Shift lever, rear brake pedal.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, neutral indicator, reverse indicator, high beam indicator.

Fuel System: Fuel valve (ON, OFF, RESERVE), fuel cap.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long service life and reliability.

Before each ride: Check tire pressure, controls, lights.
Monthly: Check battery, clean air filter, lubricate cables.
Every 6 months: Change engine oil, check brake pads.
Annually: Change final drive oil, inspect suspension.
Every 2 years: Replace spark plug, check valve clearance.

Tip: Keep detailed maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Essential maintenance tasks for proper ATV care.

Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 10W-40.
Air Filter: Remove cover, clean foam element with solvent, re-oil.
Tire Pressure: Maintain 3.5 psi front, 3.5 psi rear for normal use.
Chain Adjustment: Check slack, adjust to 1-1.5 inches of play.
Brake Adjustment: Check lever travel, adjust if excessive play.
Battery: Check electrolyte level, clean terminals, test voltage.

WARNING! Always support ATV securely when performing maintenance. Use proper tools.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage procedures for extended periods of non-use.

Clean thoroughly and apply wax to painted surfaces.
Change oil and filter before storage.
Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Elevate tires off ground to prevent flat spots.
Cover with breathable fabric cover.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in carburetor. Drain or use stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage for 6 months from date of purchase. Covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or accident damage. Keep purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, compression	Check fuel valve, spark plug, choke setting.
Poor performance	Dirty air filter, clogged carb	Clean air filter, inspect carburetor.
Hard shifting	Low oil, clutch adjustment	Check oil level, adjust clutch cable.
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Test battery voltage, clean connections.
Overheating	Low oil, dirty fins	Check oil level, clean cooling fins.

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for major repairs. Use genuine Honda parts for best performance.

Support: Honda Customer Service 1-800-999-1009