1987 Honda Shadow VT700 Manual PDF

The 1987 Honda Shadow VT700 is a mid-size cruiser motorcycle featuring a 697cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine, shaft drive system, and classic cruiser styling. This manual covers all aspects of ownership including specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and repair instructions. Below are key sections for technical data, routine maintenance, engine service, electrical systems, and troubleshooting.

1. Features and Specifications 2. Routine Maintenance 3. Engine Service 4. Electrical System 5. Fuel System 6. Brake System 7. Suspension and Steering 8. Drive System 9. Troubleshooting 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty and Support

Features and Specifications

Key components: 697cc V-twin engine, shaft final drive, hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, dual exhaust system.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	697cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin
Bore x Stroke	76mm x 77mm
Compression Ratio	9.6:1
Fuel System	Two 34mm constant velocity carburetors
Ignition System	Transistorized electronic
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Front Brake	Single hydraulic disc
Rear Brake	Single hydraulic disc
Fuel Capacity	3.4 gallons (12.8 liters)
Seat Height	28.3 inches (720mm)
Dry Weight	476 lbs (216 kg)

Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Oil Change: Every 4,000 miles - Use 10W-40 motorcycle oil
Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
Air Filter: Clean every 8,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs: Replace every 8,000 miles - NGK DPR8EA-9
Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years - DOT 4
Coolant: Replace every 2 years - 50/50 ethylene glycol
Drive Shaft: Lubricate every 16,000 miles

WARNING! Always use motorcycle-specific lubricants and fluids. Never use automotive oil.

Engine Service

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance and repair.

Valve Clearance: Check every 8,000 miles - Intake: 0.004 in, Exhaust: 0.005 in
Cam Chain: Adjust every 16,000 miles
Cylinder Compression: Standard: 170-200 psi, Minimum: 142 psi
Carburetor Sync: Synchronize every 8,000 miles
Cooling System: Check radiator and hoses for leaks

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Electrical System

Battery: 12V 14Ah - Keep terminals clean and tight
Charging System: Three-phase AC generator
Starter: Electric starter with reduction gear
Fuses: Main fuse 30A, sub fuses 10A and 15A
Headlight: 12V 60/55W halogen
Turn Signals: 12V 21W
Brake Light: 12V 21/5W

Fuel System

Carburetor maintenance and fuel system components.

Carburetor Specifications: Main jet #115, Slow jet #38, Float level 14.5mm

Fuel System Service: Clean fuel filter every 16,000 miles, Check fuel lines for cracks, Adjust idle speed to 1000 ± 100 rpm, Check choke operation for smooth cold starts.

Brake System

Front and rear brake maintenance procedures.

Brake Pads: Replace when worn to 1mm thickness
Brake Discs: Minimum thickness 3.5mm front, 4.0mm rear
Brake Fluid: Use DOT 4, replace every 2 years
Brake Lines: Inspect for cracks and wear
Brake Lever: Free play 10-20mm

Tip: Always bleed brakes after fluid replacement to remove air bubbles.

Suspension and Steering

Front fork and rear shock maintenance.

Front Fork Oil: Replace every 16,000 miles - 10W fork oil
Fork Oil Capacity: 435ml per leg
Rear Shock: Check for oil leaks and proper damping
Steering Head: Adjust bearings every 8,000 miles
Wheel Bearings: Repack with grease every 16,000 miles
Tire Pressure: Front 28 psi, Rear 32 psi (cold)

WARNING! Always support motorcycle securely when working on suspension components.

Drive System

Shaft drive maintenance and service.

Final Drive: Check oil level every 4,000 miles, Replace final drive oil every 16,000 miles - 80W-90 gear oil, Universal Joint: Lubricate every 16,000 miles, Drive Shaft Splines: Lubricate with moly grease during tire changes.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Dirty carburetor, weak battery	Clean carburetor, charge/replace battery
Poor idle	Clogged pilot jets, vacuum leak	Clean carburetor, check intake seals
Overheating	Low coolant, stuck thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat
Electrical failure	Blown fuse, bad connection	Check fuses, clean connections
Brake drag	Stuck caliper, contaminated fluid	Clean caliper, replace brake fluid
Vibration	Wheel balance, engine mounts	Balance wheels, check mounts

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset ECU if applicable.

Safety Information

Always wear proper protective gear. Perform maintenance in well-ventilated area. Use motorcycle stand for stability. Keep fire extinguisher nearby when working with fuel.

CAUTION! Gasoline is highly flammable. No smoking during maintenance.

Warranty and Support

Original warranty: 12 months unlimited mileage. For technical support, contact Honda Customer Service at 1-800-999-1009 or visit www.honda.com. Genuine Honda parts recommended for all repairs.