1987 Suzuki LT230 Manual

The 1987 Suzuki LT230 is a 229cc four-stroke, single-cylinder ATV featuring shaft drive, electric start, reverse gear, front and rear suspension, front and rear drum brakes, and automatic clutch. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Ride Inspection 3. Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Basic Maintenance 8. Storage 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 229cc four-stroke engine, shaft drive system, electric start with backup recoil, reverse gear, front and rear suspension.

Feature	Description
Engine	229cc four-stroke, air-cooled, single cylinder
Starting System	Electric start with auxiliary recoil starter
Drive System	Shaft drive
Transmission	5-speed with reverse
Clutch	Automatic centrifugal
Brakes	Front and rear drum brakes
Suspension	Front telescopic forks, rear swingarm
Fuel Capacity	3.7 gallons (14 liters)
Weight	341 lbs (155 kg)
Load Capacity	220 lbs (100 kg)

Pre-Ride Inspection

Always perform pre-ride inspection before operating.

Check fuel level: Ensure adequate fuel for intended ride.
Inspect tires: Check pressure and condition for wear/damage.
Test brakes: Verify front and rear brake operation.
Check controls: Ensure throttle, brakes, and steering move freely.
Verify lights: Check headlight and taillight operation.

WARNING! Never operate ATV without proper inspection. Failure to inspect may result in accident or injury.

Operation

Starting and operating procedures.

Starting: Turn key to ON, set choke if cold, press start button.
Shifting: Use left foot lever (1-N-2-3-4-5-R).
Reverse: Come to complete stop, shift to R position.
Braking: Use both front and rear brakes together.
Stopping: Shift to neutral, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Always wear helmet and protective gear. Never operate on public roads.

Specifications

Engine Type: 4-stroke, air-cooled, OHC
Displacement: 229cc
Bore x Stroke: 67.0 x 65.0 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
Carburetor: Mikuni VM24SS
Ignition: CDI
Transmission: 5-speed with reverse
Final Drive: Shaft
Front Tire: 22x11-8
Rear Tire: 22x11-8
Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)

Controls and Instruments

Handlebar controls: Throttle, front brake lever, ignition switch, light switch, start button.

Instrument panel: Ignition key, neutral indicator, reverse indicator.

Foot controls: Gear shift lever (left), brake pedal (right).

Other controls: Choke lever (left side), fuel valve (under seat).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Item	Every 3 months	Every 6 months	Every year
Engine oil	Change
Oil filter		Replace
Air filter	Clean		Replace
Spark plug		Check/clean	Replace
Brake pads	Inspect		Replace if worn
Drive shaft		Lubricate

Basic Maintenance

Essential maintenance procedures.

Oil change: Drain old oil, replace filter, refill with 10W-40.
Air filter: Remove and clean with compressed air.
Spark plug: Check gap (0.024-0.028 in), clean or replace.
Tire pressure: Maintain 3.6 psi front, 3.6 psi rear.
Chain adjustment: Check drive chain tension and lubricate.

Tip: Always use genuine Suzuki parts for replacement.

Storage

Proper storage procedures for extended periods.

Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer or drain completely.
Battery: Remove and store fully charged.
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure and elevate off ground.
Cleaning: Wash thoroughly and apply protective coating.
Cover: Use breathable cover in dry, cool location.

WARNING! Store in well-ventilated area away from open flames.

Safety Information

Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots. Never carry passengers. Avoid paved surfaces. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Complete training course before operation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, dead battery, spark plug	Check fuel level, charge battery, inspect spark plug
Poor performance	Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter	Clean/replace air filter, replace fuel filter
Hard shifting	Low oil level, worn clutch	Check oil level, inspect clutch components
Brakes weak	Worn pads, air in lines	Replace brake pads, bleed brake system
Electrical issues	Blown fuse, bad connection	Check fuses, inspect wiring connections

Service: Contact authorized Suzuki dealer for major repairs.

Parts: Use genuine Suzuki parts for optimal performance and safety.