1988 Suzuki LT80 Manual

The 1988 Suzuki LT80 is a youth ATV featuring a 79cc 2-stroke air-cooled engine, automatic transmission with high/low range, reverse gear, dual-range throttle limiter for beginner riders, front and rear suspension, hydraulic drum brakes, and electric start. Designed for riders ages 6 and up with a maximum load capacity of 110 lbs. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fuel and Lubrication 7. Tire Maintenance 8. Storage Procedures 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 79cc 2-stroke engine, automatic CVT transmission, dual-range throttle, electric start, front suspension, rear suspension, hydraulic brakes.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type79cc 2-stroke, air-cooled, single cylinder
TransmissionAutomatic CVT with high/low range and reverse
Throttle LimiterDual-range adjustable for beginner riders
Starting SystemElectric start with backup recoil
Suspension FrontSingle shock, telescopic fork
Suspension RearSwingarm with single shock
BrakesHydraulic drum brakes front and rear
TiresFront: 19x7-8, Rear: 18x9.5-8
Fuel Capacity1.3 gallons (5 liters)
Load Capacity110 lbs maximum

Safety Information

Always wear proper safety gear and follow operating guidelines.

  1. Rider age: Minimum 6 years old with adult supervision
  2. Safety gear: Always wear helmet, eye protection, gloves, boots
  3. Training area: Use only in safe, controlled environments
  4. No passengers: Designed for single rider only
  5. Throttle limiter: Set to low range for beginner riders

WARNING! ATV can be hazardous to operate. Never operate on public roads. Adult supervision required for riders under 16.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

  1. Starting: Turn key to ON, set transmission to NEUTRAL, press start button
  2. Transmission: L (Low), H (High), N (Neutral), R (Reverse)
  3. Throttle: Right handle grip - twist to accelerate
  4. Brakes: Left lever (front), right lever (rear)
  5. Throttle limiter: Adjust screw on throttle housing for speed control
  6. Kill switch: Emergency engine stop - red button on right handlebar

CAUTION! Always start in neutral. Use low range for beginners. Practice in open area.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

ItemEvery RideMonthly6 MonthsYearly
Engine OilCheck levelChange--
Air FilterVisual checkCleanReplace-
Spark Plug-CheckReplace-
BrakesCheck operationAdjustInspect pads-
ChainCheck tensionLubricateAdjust-
TiresCheck pressureInspect--
Nuts/Bolts-Tighten--

Fuel and Lubrication

Use proper fuel mixture and lubricants for 2-stroke engine.

  1. Fuel mixture: 32:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil ratio
  2. Fuel type: Use 87 octane or higher unleaded gasoline
  3. Oil type: Suzuki CCI or equivalent 2-stroke injection oil
  4. Transmission oil: SAE 10W-40 4-stroke motor oil
  5. Chain lubricant: Use motorcycle chain lube only

WARNING! Never use automotive motor oil in 2-stroke fuel mixture. Store fuel in approved containers.

Tire Maintenance

Proper tire maintenance ensures traction and handling.

  1. Tire pressure: Front 3.6 psi, Rear 3.6 psi (cold)
  2. Inspection: Check for cuts, punctures, wear patterns
  3. Replacement: Replace tires when tread depth below 1/8 inch
  4. Valve stems: Keep caps tight to prevent dirt entry

Tip: Check tire pressure before each ride. Adjust for terrain conditions.

Storage Procedures

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

  1. Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer or drain completely
  2. Battery: Disconnect negative terminal or remove battery
  3. Tires: Inflate to maximum pressure and elevate off ground
  4. Cleaning: Wash thoroughly and apply protectant to plastic
  5. Cover: Store in dry location with breathable cover

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in carburetor. Stabilize or drain completely.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, compressionCheck fuel mixture, spark plug, compression
Poor performanceClogged air filter, carburetorClean air filter, check carburetor jets
Transmission slippingWorn belt, low oilCheck CVT belt, transmission oil level
Electrical issuesBattery, connectionsCheck battery voltage, clean connections
Brakes weakAir in lines, worn padsBleed brakes, inspect brake pads
Chain noiseLoose, dry chainAdjust tension, lubricate properly

Service: Contact authorized Suzuki dealer for major repairs.

Warranty Information

1988 Suzuki LT80 includes limited warranty coverage. Original owner receives 6 months parts and labor warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers manufacturing defects but excludes normal wear, improper maintenance, accidents, or modifications. Keep original sales receipt for warranty claims.

For warranty service: Contact authorized Suzuki dealership with proof of purchase.

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