1988 Kawasaki Bayou 300 Manual

The 1988 Kawasaki Bayou 300 is a rugged, versatile ATV designed for work and recreation. This 291cc four-stroke engine features electric start with pull-start backup, shaft drive, full-floorboards, front and rear cargo racks, and independent front suspension. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for this reliable utility vehicle.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Pre-Operation Inspection 3. Starting Procedures 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instruments 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Basic Operations 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 291cc air-cooled four-stroke engine, shaft drive system, full-floorboards, front and rear cargo racks.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	291cc air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder
Starting System	Electric start with pull-start backup
Drive System	Shaft drive with reverse gear
Suspension	Independent front suspension with dual shocks
Brakes	Drum brakes front and rear
Fuel Capacity	2.6 gallons (9.8 liters)
Cargo Capacity	Front: 44 lbs, Rear: 88 lbs
Towing Capacity	Up to 650 lbs
Transmission	5-speed with reverse
Ignition System	CDI electronic ignition

Pre-Operation Inspection

Always perform pre-ride inspection before operation.

Check fuel level and add fresh gasoline if needed.
Inspect tires for proper pressure and damage.
Check oil level and condition.
Test brakes and throttle operation.
Ensure all lights and switches function properly.

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

Starting Procedures

Follow proper starting sequence for safe operation.

Turn fuel valve to ON position.
Place transmission in NEUTRAL.
Apply parking brake.
Turn ignition key to ON position.
For electric start: Press starter button.
For pull start: Pull starter handle firmly.
Allow engine to warm up for 2-3 minutes.

CAUTION! Always start in neutral with parking brake applied. Never start in gear.

Specifications

Engine: 291cc 4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC
Bore x Stroke: 74.0 x 67.0 mm
Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
Fuel System: Mikuni VM24SS carburetor
Transmission: 5-speed with reverse, manual clutch
Final Drive: Shaft drive
Suspension Front: Independent double wishbone
Suspension Rear: Swingarm with dual shocks
Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
Tires: Front: 21x7-10, Rear: 22x11-8
Dimensions: 74.8" L x 41.3" W x 43.3" H
Dry Weight: 418 lbs

Controls and Instruments

Main controls: Handlebar switches, brake levers, throttle, gear shift lever.

Instrument Panel: Ignition switch, speedometer, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, oil pressure warning light.

Handlebar Controls: Right side - throttle, front brake lever; Left side - clutch lever, light switch, choke, engine stop switch. Foot Controls: Gear shift lever, rear brake pedal.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

After first 20 hours: Change engine oil and filter
Every 100 hours: Check valve clearance
Every 200 hours: Change final drive oil
Monthly: Check tire pressure and brake operation
Seasonally: Lubricate cables and pivot points
Annually: Clean air filter, check spark plug

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty compliance.

Basic Operations

Fundamental riding techniques and procedures.

Mounting: Approach from left side, swing leg over seat.
Starting: Follow starting procedure in neutral.
Shifting: Pull clutch, select gear, release clutch smoothly.
Braking: Apply both front and rear brakes progressively.
Turning: Lean into turns, reduce speed before entering.
Reverse: Come to complete stop, shift to reverse carefully.
Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to neutral, turn off engine.

WARNING! Always wear helmet and protective gear. Never carry passengers.

Safety Features

Key safety systems: Parking brake, neutral safety switch, engine stop switch, lighting system.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage procedures for extended periods.

Add fuel stabilizer to full tank.
Change engine oil and filter.
Remove battery and store on tender.
Clean thoroughly and lubricate.
Store in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor. Drain or run dry before storage.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage: 6 months for commercial use, 12 months for private use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Normal maintenance, tires, and wear items excluded. Keep purchase receipt and maintenance records. Contact authorized Kawasaki dealer for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel flow, spark plug, compression; ensure in neutral
Hard starting	Dirty carburetor, weak battery	Clean carburetor, charge or replace battery
Poor performance	Clogged air filter, dirty spark plug	Clean/replace air filter, check/replace spark plug
Electrical issues	Blown fuse, bad connection	Check fuses, clean battery terminals
Overheating	Low oil, clogged cooling fins	Check oil level, clean cooling fins
Transmission problems	Low oil, worn clutch	Check transmission oil, adjust clutch

Service: Contact authorized Kawasaki dealer for major repairs.

Parts: Use genuine Kawasaki parts for best performance.