The 1987 Polaris Trail Boss 250 is a rugged ATV designed for trail riding and utility work. This manual covers the 250cc two-stroke engine model with automatic transmission, front and rear suspension, electric start with backup pull start, front and rear racks, and comprehensive maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for safety, specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.
Key components: 250cc two-stroke engine, automatic Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT), front and rear suspension, front and rear cargo racks, electric start with backup recoil.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | 250cc air-cooled two-stroke single cylinder |
| Transmission | Automatic PVT with high/low range and reverse |
| Starting System | Electric start with auxiliary recoil backup |
| Suspension | Front: Independent A-arm; Rear: Swingarm |
| Brakes | Front and rear hydraulic drum brakes |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters) |
| Cargo Capacity | Front: 50 lbs; Rear: 100 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 850 lbs maximum |
| Dry Weight | 415 lbs (188 kg) |
| Ground Clearance | 6.5 inches (165 mm) |
Always wear proper safety gear and follow operating guidelines.
WARNING! This ATV can be hazardous to operate. Always follow safety guidelines and never exceed your skill level.
Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.
Main Controls: Throttle lever, brake lever, ignition switch, transmission range selector (H/L/R), choke, light switch, starter button.
Starting Procedure: Turn fuel valve ON, set transmission to NEUTRAL, apply choke if cold, turn ignition ON, press starter button or use recoil starter. Allow engine to warm up before riding.
Riding: Select appropriate range (High for trails, Low for heavy loads), apply throttle smoothly, use both brakes for stopping, avoid sudden maneuvers.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
| Service | Every 25 hrs | Every 100 hrs | Every 200 hrs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil change | ✓ | ||
| Air filter cleaning | ✓ | ||
| Spark plug inspection | ✓ | ||
| Brake inspection | ✓ | ||
| Drive chain adjustment | ✓ | ||
| CVT belt inspection | ✓ | ||
| Wheel bearing service | ✓ | ||
| Suspension lubrication | ✓ |
Two-stroke engine requires proper fuel/oil mixture and regular maintenance.
CAUTION! Always use proper 2-stroke oil - automotive oil will damage engine.
Polaris Variable Transmission (PVT) provides automatic shifting.
Tip: Avoid high RPM operation when stationary to prevent belt damage.
12-volt DC system with battery, starter, and charging system.
Testing: Battery should read 12.6V static, 13.5-14.5V when running.
Hydraulic drum brakes front and rear with independent suspension.
WARNING! Test brakes before each ride. Replace worn brake components immediately.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | No spark, fuel issue, compression | Check spark, fuel flow, compression; clean carburetor |
| Poor performance | Clogged air filter, carb issues | Clean air filter, adjust carburetor, check compression |
| Transmission slipping | Worn belt, dirty clutches | Inspect belt, clean clutch sheaves, check alignment |
| Electrical failure | Dead battery, bad connections | Test battery, check fuses, clean connections |
| Overheating | Lean fuel mix, cooling fins clogged | Adjust carburetor, clean cooling fins, check oil mixture |
Service: Contact authorized Polaris dealer for major repairs.
Proper storage prevents damage during periods of non-use.
CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in carburetor - drain or run until empty.