1986 Suzuki 1400SV Intruder Owner's Manual

The 1986 Suzuki 1400SV Intruder is a powerful V-twin cruiser motorcycle featuring a 1360cc four-stroke engine, shaft drive system, electronic ignition, front disc and rear drum brakes, comprehensive instrumentation, and classic cruiser styling. This manual covers safety information, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for proper ownership and care of your motorcycle.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 1360cc V-twin engine, shaft final drive, electronic ignition, comprehensive instrumentation, front disc brake, rear drum brake.

FeatureDescription
Engine1360cc 4-stroke V-twin, air-cooled
Transmission5-speed constant mesh
Final DriveShaft drive
IgnitionElectronic (transistorized)
BrakesFront disc, rear drum
SuspensionTelescopic front forks, dual rear shocks
Fuel Capacity4.0 gallons (15 liters)
Seat Height28.3 inches (720mm)
Weight584 lbs (265 kg) wet
InstrumentationSpeedometer, odometer, trip meter, warning lights

Safety Information

Always wear proper protective gear and follow safe riding practices.

  1. Always wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
  2. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.
  3. Perform pre-ride inspection: tires, brakes, lights, controls, fluid levels.
  4. Allow engine to warm up before riding.
  5. Ride defensively and be aware of road conditions.

WARNING! Motorcycles offer no crash protection. Always ride within your skill limits and obey traffic laws.

Controls and Instruments

Left handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signal switch, horn button, high/low beam switch. Right handlebar: Front brake lever, engine stop switch, starter button, throttle.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators, oil pressure warning light.

Fuel valve: ON, RES, PRI positions. Ignition switch: OFF, ON, PARK positions. Choke lever: Located on left side of carburetor.

Specifications

Operation and Riding

Starting procedure: Turn fuel valve to ON, ignition to ON, shift to neutral, pull choke, press starter button.

  1. Pre-ride inspection: Check tires, brakes, lights, controls, fluid levels.
  2. Starting: Ensure neutral, apply choke when cold, press starter.
  3. Warm-up: Allow engine to reach operating temperature before riding.
  4. Shifting: Use clutch smoothly, shift decisively through gears.
  5. Braking: Use both brakes together for maximum stopping power.

Tip: Practice emergency braking and evasive maneuvers in safe, controlled environment.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

ItemEvery 600 miEvery 4000 miEvery 8000 mi
Engine oilChangeChangeChange
Oil filter-ReplaceReplace
Air filterCheckClean/ReplaceClean/Replace
Spark plugsCheckReplaceReplace
Brake fluidCheckReplaceReplace
Drive shaft oil-ChangeChange
Tire pressureCheckCheckCheck
Chain adjustmentCheckAdjustAdjust

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Engine oil change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with recommended oil.

  1. Oil change: Drain plug on bottom of crankcase, 3.7 quarts with filter.
  2. Air filter: Remove side cover, clean foam element in solvent.
  3. Spark plugs: NGK D8EA, gap 0.024-0.028 inches.
  4. Brake adjustment: Front self-adjusting, rear via adjuster nut.
  5. Tire pressure: Front 28 psi, rear 32 psi (check when cold).
  6. Battery: Check fluid level, keep terminals clean and tight.

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids and genuine Suzuki parts.

Storage and Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

  1. Fill fuel tank and add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Change oil and filter.
  3. Remove battery and store on trickle charger.
  4. Inflate tires to maximum pressure and elevate off ground.
  5. Cover with breathable motorcycle cover.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in carburetors - drain float bowls.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, compressionCheck fuel valve, choke, spark plugs, battery
Poor performanceDirty air filter, carb issuesClean air filter, check carburetor synchronization
Electrical problemsBattery, connectionsCheck battery voltage, clean terminals, test charging system
Brake issuesWorn pads, air in linesInspect brake pads, bleed hydraulic system
Unusual noisesLoose components, wearCheck exhaust, chain, bearings for looseness or wear

Service: Contact authorized Suzuki dealer for complex repairs.

Warranty Information

1986 Suzuki motorcycles are covered by a limited warranty. Contact your Suzuki dealer for specific warranty terms and conditions. Keep all maintenance records for warranty claims.

For technical support and parts, contact your local Suzuki dealer or Suzuki Customer Relations at 1-714-572-7900.

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