1986 Yamaha Golf Cart Manual

The 1986 Yamaha Golf Cart is a reliable gas-powered utility vehicle featuring a 4-stroke engine, forward/reverse transmission, electric start with backup pull-start, 8-inch wheels with turf-friendly tires, bench seating for two, cargo rack, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, specifications, troubleshooting, and safety guidelines.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-stroke gasoline engine, Forward/Neutral/Reverse transmission, Electric start system, Pull-start backup, Bench seat, Cargo rack, Headlights, Horn.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	4-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine
Transmission	Forward/Neutral/Reverse selector
Starting System	Electric start with pull-start backup
Seating	Bench seat for two passengers
Cargo Capacity	Rear rack with 200 lb capacity
Wheels/Tires	8-inch wheels with turf tires
Lighting	Headlights and taillights
Brakes	Mechanical drum brakes front and rear
Fuel Tank	5-gallon capacity
Speed Control	Variable speed pedal

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Prepare for initial operation.

Battery installation: Connect positive then negative terminals; secure battery in tray.
Fuel system: Add fresh unleaded gasoline to 5-gallon tank.
Tire pressure: Inflate all tires to 15 PSI recommended pressure.
Pre-operation check: Verify oil level, brake function, and tire condition.

WARNING! Cart is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure parking brake is engaged during setup.

First-Time Operation

Complete pre-operation checklist before starting engine.

Starting procedure: Turn key to ON, ensure in Neutral, press brake, turn to START.
Driving: Select Forward or Reverse, release parking brake, press accelerator gradually.
Stopping: Release accelerator, apply brake pedal, engage parking brake.
Shutdown: Turn key to OFF, remove key, engage parking brake.

CAUTION! Always operate on flat, stable surfaces during initial use. Avoid steep inclines.

Specifications

Engine: 4-stroke, 286cc air-cooled gasoline
Transmission: Forward/Neutral/Reverse
Starting System: Electric with pull-start backup
Fuel Capacity: 5 gallons unleaded gasoline
Seating Capacity: 2 persons
Cargo Capacity: 200 lbs on rear rack
Tires: 8-inch turf tires
Brakes: Mechanical drum brakes
Lighting: Headlights and taillights
Dimensions: 90" L x 48" W x 66" H

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard includes: Ignition switch, Forward/Neutral/Reverse lever, Accelerator pedal, Brake pedal, Parking brake, Headlight switch, Horn button.

Instrument Panel: Key switch (OFF/ON/START), Gear indicator lights, Headlight indicator.

Operation: Turn key to ON position, select gear direction, release parking brake, press accelerator to move. Brake pedal for stopping, parking brake for secure parking.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check tire pressure, brake function, fuel level
Monthly: Check battery terminals, clean air filter
Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, inspect spark plug
Every 100 hours: Check brake adjustment, lubricate chassis
Seasonal: Winterize if storing, check battery charge

Tip: Keep maintenance log for service records.

Engine Operation

4-stroke gasoline engine operation procedures.

Starting: Ensure in Neutral, parking brake engaged, turn key to START
Warm-up: Allow 30 seconds at idle before driving
Driving: Smooth acceleration, avoid sudden stops
Shutdown: Allow brief cool-down at idle before turning off
Pull-start: Use if battery dead - pull cord steadily

WARNING! Never operate in enclosed spaces due to carbon monoxide risk.

Safety Features

Parking brake: Mechanical lock for secure parking. Neutral safety: Prevents starting in gear. Speed governor: Limits maximum speed for safety.

Care & Storage

Clean exterior with mild soap and water. Store in dry location. For long-term storage: Add fuel stabilizer, disconnect battery, inflate tires to proper pressure.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure washers on electrical components. Keep away from open flames.

Regulatory Information

Designed for golf course and private property use only. Not intended for public road use. Emissions compliant with 1986 standards. Copyright © 1986 Yamaha Motor Corporation. For support, contact Yamaha customer service or authorized dealers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug, battery charge
Poor performance	Air filter, fuel quality	Clean/replace air filter, use fresh fuel
Brakes not working	Adjustment, wear	Adjust brake cables, inspect brake shoes
Battery dead	Charging system	Check battery connections, use pull-start
Transmission issues	Linkage, fluid	Check shift linkage, inspect for leaks

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

Service: Contact authorized Yamaha service center for major repairs.