1988 Yamaha Exciter Service Manual

The 1988 Yamaha Exciter is a high-performance snowmobile featuring a liquid-cooled 485cc two-stroke engine, CDI ignition system, slide rail suspension, and advanced chassis design. This comprehensive service manual covers maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions for all major systems including engine, drive train, suspension, electrical, and brakes.

1. Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Service 4. Fuel System 5. Electrical System 6. Drive System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Brake System 9. Troubleshooting 10. Wiring Diagrams 11. Torque Specifications

Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 1988 Yamaha Exciter snowmobile.

Component	Specification
Engine Type	Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single cylinder
Displacement	485cc
Bore x Stroke	76mm x 70mm
Compression Ratio	7.2:1
Carburetor	Mikuni VM34SS
Ignition System	CDI
Starting System	Electric and pull start
Track Dimensions	15" x 121"
Fuel Capacity	10.6 US gallons
Oil Capacity	3.2 quarts

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Pre-season inspection: Check all systems before first use
Every 500 miles: Spark plug inspection and replacement
Every 1,000 miles: Carburetor adjustment and cleaning
Every 2,000 miles: Drive chain tension check and adjustment
Annual: Suspension lubrication and brake inspection

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use proper safety equipment.

Engine Service

Complete engine maintenance and repair procedures.

Cylinder head removal and installation
Piston and ring replacement
Crankshaft inspection and service
Cooling system maintenance
Exhaust system service

CAUTION! Engine components may be hot. Allow proper cooling time before servicing.

Fuel System

Carburetor: Mikuni VM34SS with throttle position sensor
Fuel Pump: Mechanical diaphragm type
Fuel Filter: In-line replaceable element
Fuel Lines: Check for cracks and deterioration
Mixture Ratio: 50:1 Yamalube 2S to premium unleaded

Electrical System

CDI ignition system with electric start and comprehensive lighting package.

Components: CDI unit, stator assembly, voltage regulator, starter motor, battery (12V 18Ah).

Testing procedures: Stator output test, CDI unit diagnosis, spark plug gap (0.6-0.7mm), battery voltage check, lighting circuit testing. Wiring color codes: Red (+), Black (-), Yellow (AC output), White (lighting).

Drive System

Diamond drive with hydraulic disc brake and driven clutch assembly.

Drive clutch inspection and maintenance
Driven clutch service and belt alignment
Track tension adjustment procedure
Chain case service and lubrication

Tip: Always check drive belt condition and tension before operation.

Suspension & Steering

Slide rail suspension with hydraulic front shocks and adjustable rear springs.

Front suspension: Double A-arm with hydraulic shocks
Rear suspension: Slide rail with torsion springs
Steering: Direct linkage with adjustable handlebars
Ski alignment: Toe-in adjustment procedure
Shock servicing: Oil change and pressure testing

WARNING! Use proper jack stands when working under sled. Never rely on hydraulic jack alone.

Brake System

Hydraulic disc brake system with parking brake feature.

Care & Storage

Proper winterization and storage procedures to prevent damage during off-season.

CAUTION! Drain fuel system completely or use fuel stabilizer. Store in dry, covered area.

Regulatory Information

Yamaha Motor Corporation USA. Meets all applicable EPA and CARB emissions standards. Copyright © 1988 Yamaha Motor Corporation. All rights reserved. For technical support, contact Yamaha Customer Service at 1-800-962-7926.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check spark plug, fuel delivery, compression test
Poor performance	Clutch wear, carburetion	Inspect drive clutch, clean carburetor, check reeds
Electrical failure	Battery, stator, wiring	Test battery voltage, stator output, check grounds
Overheating	Cooling system blockage	Check coolant level, thermostat, water pump
Track slippage	Drive belt wear	Inspect drive belt, adjust tension, check alignment

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset CDI unit if needed.

Service: 1-800-962-7926; www.yamahamotors.com