1988 Yamaha Virago 1100 Manual PDF

The 1988 Yamaha Virago 1100 is a classic V-twin cruiser motorcycle featuring a 1063cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 75° V-twin engine with electronic ignition, 5-speed transmission, shaft drive, dual front disc brakes, single rear drum brake, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are key sections covering specifications, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and operational guidelines.

1. Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine System 4. Fuel System 5. Electrical System 6. Chassis & Suspension 7. Brake System 8. Troubleshooting 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support

Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1988 Yamaha Virago 1100 motorcycle.

Component	Specification
Engine Type	Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 75° V-twin
Displacement	1063cc
Bore x Stroke	95.0 x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio	8.3:1
Fuel System	Mikuni BS34SS carburetors x 2
Ignition System	TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Transmission	5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive	Shaft drive
Front Suspension	Telescopic fork, 140mm travel
Rear Suspension	Swingarm with dual shocks, 90mm travel

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil change: Every 3,000 miles or 6 months
Oil filter replacement: Every other oil change
Air filter cleaning: Every 4,000 miles
Spark plug replacement: Every 8,000 miles
Brake fluid change: Every 2 years
Coolant replacement: Every 2 years (if applicable)
Drive chain adjustment: Every 600 miles
Valve clearance check: Every 8,000 miles

WARNING! Always use Yamaha genuine parts for replacements. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine System

Engine maintenance and service procedures.

Oil level check: Ensure motorcycle is upright on level ground
Valve adjustment: Requires special tools and technical expertise
Compression test: Should read 142-171 psi per cylinder
Ignition timing: Set to 10° BTDC at 1,200 rpm
Carburetor synchronization: Required for smooth idle and performance

CAUTION! Engine components become extremely hot during operation. Allow sufficient cooling time before servicing.

Fuel System

Carburetors: Mikuni BS34SS, 34mm venturi
Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gallons (14 liters)
Fuel Type: Regular unleaded (87 octane minimum)
Idle Speed: 1,000 ± 100 rpm
Float Level: 21.5 ± 1.0 mm
Main Jet: #127.5
Pilot Jet: #42.5

Electrical System

Battery: 12V 14Ah, Charging system: Three-phase AC generator, Output: 14V 25A at 5,000 rpm.

Fuses: Main 30A, Headlight 10A, Signal 10A, Ignition 10A.

Bulb specifications: Headlight 60/55W H4, Brake/tail light 21/5W, Turn signal 21W, License plate light 8W. Battery maintenance: Check electrolyte level monthly, specific gravity 1.280 at 20°C.

Chassis & Suspension

Frame: Steel double cradle, Wheelbase: 1,530mm, Seat height: 700mm, Ground clearance: 140mm.

Front tire pressure: 28 psi (190 kPa)
Rear tire pressure: 32 psi (220 kPa)
Front fork oil capacity: 486ml per leg
Fork oil viscosity: SAE 10W
Steering head bearing adjustment: 0.5-1.0mm play

Tip: Check tire pressure when tires are cold for accurate reading.

Brake System

Front: Dual hydraulic disc brakes, 267mm diameter. Rear: Single mechanical drum brake, 180mm diameter.

Brake pad thickness: Replace when less than 1.0mm
Brake disc thickness: Minimum 4.0mm
Brake fluid: DOT 4
Brake lever free play: 2-3mm
Rear brake pedal height: 55mm from footpeg
Brake light switch adjustment: Activates with slight lever movement

WARNING! Brake fluid is hygroscopic - replace every 2 years. Avoid contact with painted surfaces.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for the Virago 1100.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Weak battery, clogged carburetor	Check battery voltage, clean carburetor jets
Poor idle	Vacuum leak, sync issue	Check intake boots, synchronize carburetors
Electrical failure	Blown fuse, bad connection	Check main fuse, inspect wiring harness
Overheating	Low oil, rich mixture	Check oil level, adjust fuel mixture
Brake drag	Stuck caliper, misalignment	Clean caliper pins, check alignment

Safety Information

Always wear approved helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Check motorcycle condition before each ride.

CAUTION! This motorcycle can exceed 100 mph - ride responsibly and within legal limits.

Warranty & Support

Original warranty: 12 months unlimited mileage. Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. For technical support, contact authorized Yamaha dealer. Parts and service available through Yamaha dealership network. Keep all maintenance records for warranty claims.