1988 Honda Fourtrax 300 4x4 Manual

The 1988 Honda Fourtrax 300 4x4 is a rugged all-terrain vehicle featuring a 282cc four-stroke engine, selectable 2WD/4WD drive system, dual-range transmission with 5 forward gears and reverse, front and rear suspension, electric start, front and rear racks, and durable construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 282cc air-cooled four-stroke engine, 2WD/4WD selectable drive, dual-range transmission, front and rear suspension, electric start, front and rear racks.

FeatureDescription
Engine282cc air-cooled four-stroke OHC
Drive SystemSelectable 2WD/4WD with front differential
Transmission5-speed with reverse and dual-range sub-transmission
Starting SystemElectric start with auxiliary recoil
SuspensionFront independent double wishbone, rear swingarm
BrakesFront and rear drum brakes
Fuel Capacity3.4 gallons (12.9 liters)
TiresFront: 22x7-10, Rear: 22x10-10
Dry Weight419 lbs (190 kg)
Load CapacityFront: 66 lbs (30 kg), Rear: 132 lbs (60 kg)

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow safe operating procedures.

  1. Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
  2. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.
  3. Inspect vehicle before each use for proper operation.
  4. Use proper riding techniques for different terrains.
  5. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! ATVs can be hazardous to operate. Always follow safety guidelines and never exceed your skill level.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

  1. Starting: Turn key to ON, shift to NEUTRAL, pull choke (cold engine), press start button.
  2. Drive Selection: Use 2WD/4WD lever for terrain conditions.
  3. Transmission: Use gear shift for 5 forward gears and reverse; use range selector for high/low range.
  4. Braking: Use front and rear brake levers; parking brake for secure parking.
  5. Lighting: Headlight, taillight, and indicator lights for visibility.

CAUTION! Always operate in well-ventilated areas and avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

ItemEvery 100 miEvery 500 miEvery 1000 mi
Engine OilCheckChange-
Oil Filter-Replace-
Air FilterCheckClean/Replace-
Spark Plug-Check/Replace-
Drive ShaftLubricate--
BrakesCheckAdjust-
TiresCheck pressureInspect-
Nuts/BoltsCheck torque--

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Engine Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 10W-40 motorcycle oil.

  1. Air Filter Service: Remove cover, clean foam element with solvent, re-oil and reinstall.
  2. Spark Plug: Remove old plug, gap to 0.6-0.7mm, install new plug.
  3. Drive Shaft Lubrication: Grease fittings at drive shaft joints.
  4. Brake Adjustment: Adjust brake cable tension for proper lever travel.
  5. Tire Pressure: Maintain 3.5 psi front, 3.5 psi rear for normal riding.

Tip: Always use genuine Honda parts for best performance and reliability.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, compressionCheck fuel level, spark plug, choke operation, battery charge.
Poor performanceAir filter, carburetorClean air filter, check carburetor settings, fuel quality.
Hard shiftingClutch adjustmentAdjust clutch cable, check transmission oil level.
4WD not engagingDrive selectorCheck selector lever, front differential operation.
Electrical issuesBattery, connectionsCheck battery voltage, clean connections, test charging system.

Service: Contact authorized Honda dealer for complex repairs.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

  1. Clean thoroughly and apply protective coating to metal surfaces.
  2. Change engine oil and filter before storage.
  3. Add fuel stabilizer and run engine to distribute.
  4. Inflate tires to recommended pressure.
  5. Store in dry, covered area with battery disconnected.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor float bowl to prevent varnish buildup.

Warranty Information

Honda Limited Warranty: 6 months commercial use, 12 months recreational use from date of purchase. Coverage includes defects in material and workmanship. Normal maintenance items and wear parts excluded. See dealer for complete warranty details.

For support, contact authorized Honda dealer or American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Customer Relations: 1-866-784-1870.

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