Honda TRX400FA 2005, TRX400FGA 2005 Owner's Manual

04/03/09 15:13:26 31HN7610_001

This manual should be considered a permanent part of the ATV and should remain with the ATV when it is resold.

This Owner’s Manual covers the TRX400FA and TRX400FGA models. You may find descriptions of equipment and features that are not on your particular model. All illustrations are based on the

TRX400FA model.

This publication includes the latest production information available before printing. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 2004

04/03/09 15:13:31 31HN7610_002

2005

Honda TRX400FA/FGA

FourTrax

Rancher AT/with GPScape

OWNER’S MANUAL

FOR OFF-ROAD USE ONLY

This vehicle is designed and manufactured for off-road use only.

USA only:

It conforms to US EPA Noise Emission regulations, but does not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or US EPA On

Highway Exhaust Emission regulations, and operation on public streets, roads, or highways is illegal. The vehicle is equipped with a USDA qualified spark arrester. Obey local laws and regulations.

It conforms to California exhaust emission regulations for ATVs.

04/03/09 15:13:41 31HN7610_003

Introduction

Congratulations on choosing your Honda ATV.

When you own a Honda, you’re part of a worldwide family of satisfied customers − people who appreciate Honda’s reputation for building quality into every product.

Your Honda was designed as a recreational ATV for off-road use by one rider only.

Before riding, take time to get acquainted with your ATV and how it works. To protect your investment, we urge you to take responsibility for keeping your ATV well maintained. Scheduled service is a must, of course. But it’s just as important to observe the break-in guidelines, and perform all pre-ride and other periodic checks detailed in this manual.

We also recommend that you read this owner’s manual before you ride.

It’s full of facts, instructions, safety information, and helpful tips. To make it easy to use, the manual contains a detailed list of topics at the beginning of each section, and both an in-depth table of contents and an index at the back of the book.

As you read this manual, you will find information that is preceded by a symbol. This information is intended to help you avoid damage to your Honda, other property, or the environment.

Read the Warranties Booklet (page 247 ) thoroughly so you understand the coverages that protect your new Honda and are aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Whenever you ride, tread lightly. By staying on established trails and riding only in approved areas, you help protect the environment and keep off-road riding areas open for the future.

Introduction

04/03/09 15:13:46 31HN7610_004

Introduction

If you have any questions, or if you ever need special service or repairs, remember that your Honda dealer knows your ATV best and is dedicated to your complete satisfaction.

Please report any change of address or ownership to your Honda dealer so we will be able to contact you concerning important production information.

You may also want to visit our website at www.honda.com.

Happy riding!

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: This product contains or emits chemicals known to the

State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Introduction

04/03/09 15:13:52 31HN7610_005

A Few Words About Safety

Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. And operating this ATV safely is an important responsibility.

To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual.

This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.

Of course, it is not practical or possible to warn you about all hazards associated with operating or maintaining an ATV. You must use your own good judgment.

You will find important safety information in a variety of forms, including:

Safety Labels –– on the ATV.

Safety Messages –– preceded by a safety alert symbol and one of three signal words: DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION .


04/03/09 15:13:59 31HN7610_006


These signal words mean:

You WILL be KILLED or

SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY

HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow instructions.

Safety Headings –– such as Important Safety Reminders or Important

Safety Precautions.

Safety Section –– such as ATV Safety.

Instructions –– how to use this ATV correctly and safely.

This entire manual is filled with important safety information –– please read it carefully.


04/03/09 15:14:11 31HN7610_007

Contents

These pages give an overview of the contents of your owner’s manual.

The first page of each section lists the topics covered in that section.

ATV Safety .......................................................................................

.

Important safety information you should know, plus a look at the safety-related labels on your ATV.

1

Instruments & Controls ...................................................................

.

The location and function of indicators and controls on your ATV and operating instructions for various controls and features.

9

GPScape System (TRX400FGA only) ............................................

.

Instructions for use of your ATV Navigation System.

45

Before Riding ....................................................................................

.

73

The importance of wearing a helmet and other protective gear, how to make sure you and your ATV are ready to ride, and important information about loading.

Basic Operation & Riding ...............................................................

. 87

How to start and stop the engine, shift gears, and brake. Also, riding precautions.

Contents

04/03/09 15:14:24 31HN7610_008

Contents

Servicing Your Honda .....................................................................

.

123

Why your ATV needs regular maintenance, what you need to know before servicing your Honda, an owner maintenance schedule, and instructions for specific maintenance and adjustment items.

Tips ....................................................................................................

.

201

How to store and transport your ATV and how to be an environmentally-responsible rider.

Taking Care of the Unexpected ......................................................

.

211

What to do if you have a flat tire, your engine won’t start, etc.

Technical Information .....................................................................

.

229

ID numbers, technical specifications, and other technical facts.

Consumer Information ....................................................................

.

243

Information on warranties, emission controls, how to get Honda service manuals.

Table of Contents .............................................................................

.

252

Sequential listing of topics in this owner’s manual.

Index ..................................................................................................

.

260

Quick Reference

Handy facts about fuel, engine oil, tire sizes, and air pressures.

Contents

04/03/09 15:14:26 31HN7610_009

04/03/09 15:14:31 31HN7610_010

ATV Safety

This section presents some of the most important information and recommendations to help you ride your ATV safely. Please take a few moments to read these pages. This section also includes information about the location of safety labels on your ATV.

Important Safety Information ................................................................

. 2

Safety Labels ..........................................................................................

. 5

ATV Safety

1

04/03/09 15:14:40 31HN7610_011

Important Safety Information

Your ATV can provide many years of service and pleasure − if you take responsibility for your own safety and understand the challenges you can meet while riding.

There is much that you can do to protect yourself when you ride. You’ll find many helpful recommendations throughout this manual. The following are a few that we consider most important.

Follow the Age Recommendation

The minimum recommended age for this ATV model is 16. Children under age 16 should never operate this vehicle.

Always Wear a Helmet

It’s a proven fact: helmets significantly reduce the number and severity of head injuries. So always wear an approved motorcycle helmet. We also recommend that you wear eye protection, sturdy boots, gloves, and other protective gear (page 74 ).

Never Carry a Passenger

Your ATV is designed for one person only. There are no handholds, footrests, or seat for a second person − so never carry a passenger. A passenger could interfere with your ability to move around to maintain your balance and control of the ATV.

2

ATV Safety

04/03/09 15:14:47 31HN7610_012


Ride Off-Road Only

Your ATV is designed and manufactured for off-road use only. The tires are not made for pavement, and the ATV does not have turn signals and other features required for use on public roads. If you need to cross a paved or public road, get off and walk your ATV across.

Take Time to Learn & Practice

Even if you have ridden other ATVs, take time to become familiar with how this ATV works and handles. Practice in a safe area until you build your skills and get accustomed to the ATV’s size and weight.

Because many accidents involve inexperienced or untrained riders, we urge all riders to take a training course approved by the ATV Safety

Institute (ASI). See page 76 .

Contact an authorized ATV dealer or call 1-800-887-2887 (USA only) to find out about the training courses nearest you.

Be Alert for Off-Road Hazards

The terrain can present a variety of challenges when you ride off-road.

Continually ‘‘read’’ the terrain for unexpected turns, drop-offs, rocks, ruts, and other hazards. Always keep your speed low enough to allow time to see and react to hazards.

ATV Safety

3

04/03/09 15:14:54 31HN7610_013


Ride within Your Limits

Pushing limits is another major cause of ATV accidents. Never ride beyond your personal abilities or faster than conditions warrant.

Remember that alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and inattention can significantly reduce your ability to make good judgments and ride safely.

Don’t Drink and Ride

Alcohol and riding don’t mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. So don’t drink and ride, and don’t let your friends drink and ride either.

Keep Your Honda in Safe Condition

It’s important to keep your ATV properly maintained and in safe riding condition. Having a breakdown can be difficult, especially if you are stranded off-road far from your base. To help avoid problems, inspect your ATV before every ride and perform all recommended maintenance.

4

ATV Safety

04/03/09 15:14:59 31HN7610_014

Safety Labels

Your ATV comes with a hang tag and several labels containing important safety information. Anyone who rides the vehicle should read and understand this information before riding.

The labels should be considered permanent parts of the vehicle. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your Honda dealer for replacements.

ATV Safety

5

04/03/09 15:15:13 31HN7610_015

Safety Labels

USA only

6

ATV Safety

04/03/09 15:15:23 31HN7610_016

Safety Labels

ATV Safety

7

04/03/09 15:15:42 31HN7610_017

Safety Labels

8

ATV Safety

04/03/09 15:15:49 31HN7610_018

Instruments & Controls

This section shows the location of all indicators and controls you would normally use before or while riding your ATV.

The items listed on this page are described in this section. Instructions for other components are presented in other sections of this manual where they will be most useful.

Component Locations ..........................................................................

. 11

Indicators & Displays ...........................................................................

. 14

Multi-function Display .....................................................................

. 19

Drive Mode Indicator .......................................................................

. 20

Gear Position Indicator .....................................................................

. 21

Oil Change Indicator ........................................................................

. 22

Odometer ..........................................................................................

. 23

Tripmeter ..........................................................................................

. 23

Hourmeter ........................................................................................

. 24

Digital Clock ....................................................................................

. 25

Fuel Gauge .......................................................................................

. 27

(cont’d)


9

04/03/09 15:15:53 31HN7610_019


Controls & Features .............................................................................

. 28

Fuel Valve ........................................................................................

. 28

Choke Knob .....................................................................................

. 29

Ignition Switch .................................................................................

. 30

Start Button ......................................................................................

. 31

Engine Stop Switch ..........................................................................

. 31

Headlight Switch ..............................................................................

. 32

Headlight Dimmer Switch ................................................................

. 32

Drive Mode Select Switch ................................................................

. 33

Gearshift Switch ...............................................................................

. 34

Shift Lever .......................................................................................

. 35

2WD/4WD Select Switch ................................................................

. 36

Starting Primer Knob .......................................................................

. 37

Recoil Starter ....................................................................................

. 37

Throttle Lever ..................................................................................

. 38

Front Brake Lever ............................................................................

. 39

Rear Brake Lever .............................................................................

. 39

Rear Brake Pedal ..............................................................................

. 39

Parking Brake ...................................................................................

. 40

Flag Pole Bracket .............................................................................

. 41

Trailer Hitch .....................................................................................

. 42

Accessory Socket .............................................................................

. 43

10


04/03/09 15:15:59 31HN7610_020

Component Locations headlight dimmer switch headlight switch choke knob indicators rear brake lever parking brake multi-function display drive mode select switch front brake lever gearshift switches engine stop switch start button shift lever fuel gauge throttle lever

2WD/4WD select switch ignition switch


11

04/03/09 15:16:05 31HN7610_021

Component Locations seat lock lever rear cargo rack flag pole bracket fuel fill cap front brake fluid reservoir front cargo rack recoil starter oil filler cap rear brake pedal right footpeg headlights

12


04/03/09 15:16:11 31HN7610_022

Component Locations accessory socket fuel valve tool kit compartment owner’s manual storage dipstick left footpeg trailer hitch starting primer knob


13

04/03/09 15:16:21 31HN7610_023

Indicators & Displays

The indicators and displays on your ATV keep you informed, alert you to possible problems, and make your riding safer and more enjoyable.

Refer to the indicators frequently. Their functions are described on the following pages.

(1)

TRX400FA

(2) (3) (4) (1)

TRX400FGA

(2) (3) (4)

(5) (5)

(9) (8) (7) (6)

(1) reverse indicator

(2) neutral indicator

(3) oil high temperature indicator

(4) 4WD indicator

(5) multi-function display

(9) (8) (7) (6)

(6) minute select button minus button (TRX400FGA)

(7) hour select button plus button (TRX400FGA)

(8) hourmeter/digital clock select button

WP button (TRX400FGA)

(9) odometer/tripmeter select button mode select button

(TRX400FGA)

Lamp Check

When applicable, the reverse or neutral indicators come on when you turn the ignition switch ON and remain on until you shift out of reverse or neutral.

14


04/03/09 15:16:31 31HN7610_024


The indicators are identified in the table on page 16 with the words:

Lamp Check.

If one of these indicators does not come on when it should, have your

Honda dealer check for problems.

Display Check

When the ignition switch is turned ON ( ), the multi-function display make sure the liquid crystal display is functioning properly.

The displays are identified in the table on page 17 with the words:

Display Check.

If any part of these displays does not come on when it should, have your

Honda dealer check for problems.

TRX400FA TRX400FGA

(1) (1)



15

04/03/09 15:16:41 31HN7610_025

1

2

3


4

Reverse indicator

Neutral indicator

Oil high temperature indicator

4WD indicator

Lights when the transmission is in reverse.

neutral.

Lamp Check

Lights when the transmission is in

Lamp Check

Lights when engine oil temperature is high enough to adversely affect the service life of the engine.

If the oil high temperature indicator comes on while you are riding, immediately bring the vehicle to a stop, turn the engine off and let it cool. See page 222 .

Lights when the drive mode is in the

4WD mode. The 4WD indicator blinks if there is a possible problem with the 2WD/4WD select system.

See your Honda dealer as soon as possible.

16


04/03/09 19:26:10 31HN7610_026

5 Multi-function display

Drive mode indicator

Gear position indicator

Oil change indicator

Speedometer

Odometer

Tripmeter

Hourmeter

Digital clock


The display includes the following functions.

Display Check.

Shows the driving mode

(page 20 ).

Shows the gear position. (page 21 )

Lights when specified maintenance interval for engine oil change is reached (page 22 ).

Shows riding speed.

Shows accumulated mileage

(page 23 ).

Shows mileage per trip (page 23 ).

Shows hours and tenths of hours of engine operation (page 24 ).

Shows the time (hours and minutes)

(page 25 ).


17

04/03/09 15:17:11 31HN7610_027


6 Minute select button

Minus button

(TRX400FGA)

Hour select button 7

Plus button

(TRX400FGA)

8 Hourmeter/digital clock select button

WP button

(TRX400FGA)

9 Odometer/tripmeter select button

Mode select button

(TRX400FGA)

Advances the minutes displayed by the digital clock (page 25 ).

Advances the latitude and longitude when in the GPS mode.

Advances the hour displayed by the digital clock (page 25 ).

Advances the latitude and longitude when in the GPS mode.

Selects display of the hourmeter or digital clock (pages 24 , 25 ).

This button is used to input a waypoint or to erase waypoint data.

Selects display of the odometer or tripmeter. Resets the tripmeter to zero

(0) (page 23 ).

This button is used to select the odometer, tripmeter, hourmeter, digital clock or GPS navigation mode.

18


04/03/09 15:17:22 31HN7610_028


Multi-function Display

Drive mode indicator

Gear position indicator

Oil change indicator

Speedometer

Odometer

Tripmeter

Digital clock

Hourmeter

The digital clock will reset if the battery is disconnected.

(3)

(4)

TRX400FA

(5) (6) (7)

(8) (3)

(4)

TRX400FGA

(5) (6) (7)

(2)

(1)

(15)

(14) (13)


(2) drive mode indicator

(3) gear position indicator

(4) reverse indicator


(6) oil high temperature indicator

(7) 4WD indicator

(8) oil change indicator

(9) speedometer

(10) odometer/tripmeter

(12)

(9) (2)

(10)

(1)

(11)

(8)

(15)

(14) (13) (12)

(9)

(10), (11)

(11) hourmeter/digital clock


(13) hour select button plus button (TRX400FGA)

(14) hourmeter/digital clock select button



(TRX400FGA)


19

04/03/09 15:17:29 31HN7610_029


Drive Mode Indicator

ignition switch is in the ON ( ) position.

mode is selected. The ESP display vanishes when the automatic shift

(AUTO) mode is selected

TRX400FGA

(1)

TRX400FA

(1)

(1) drive mode indicator

20


04/03/09 15:17:38 31HN7610_030


Gear Position Indicator

ignition switch is in the ON ( ) position.

The indicator displays: N for neutral, R for reverse, D for drive, and 1

− 5 for the five forward speed positions in the ESP mode.

‘‘- -’’ will be displayed on the gear position indicator when the transmission is not shifted into gear properly. Before riding, check that the gear position is displayed on the gear position indicator properly.

TRX400FA TRX400FGA

(1)

(1) gear position indicator

(1)


21

04/03/09 15:17:47 31HN7610_031


Oil Change Indicator

operating hours on your ATV approaches the oil change interval specified on the maintenance schedule.

Reset the indicator after each oil change.

To reset the indicator, press and hold both the odometer/tripmeter

If the oil is changed before the oil change indicator appears, be sure to reset the oil change indicator after changing the oil. The indicator will appears for 2 seconds, then disappear. This means the indicator is reset.

TRX400FA TRX400FGA

(1) (1)

(2)

(1) oil change indicator


(TRX400FGA)

22


(3)

(2)

(3)

(3) digital clock/hourmeter select button


04/03/09 15:17:59 31HN7610_032


Odometer

miles while the ignition is ON ( ). To change the display, press and

TRX400FA TRX400FGA

(1)

(2)

(1)

(2)

(1) odometer (2) odometer/tripmeter select button mode select button (TRX400FGA)

Tripmeter

ignition is ON ( ). To change the display, press and release the hold it in for at least two seconds.

TRX400FA

(2) (3)

TRX400FGA

(3) tripmeter

(3)

(2)

(4)

(4) WP button


23

04/03/09 15:18:07 31HN7610_033


Hourmeter

ignition is ON ( ). The hourmeter provides accurate service period information for initial and regular maintenance. To change the display,

TRX400FA TRX400FGA

(3)

(3)

(1)

(2) (2)

(1) hourmeter

(2) hourmeter/digital clock select button mode select button

(TRX400FGA)

(3) hourmeter mark

(1)

24


04/03/09 15:18:15 31HN7610_034


Digital Clock

Shows hour and minute while the ignition is ON ( ).

To change the display, press and release the hourmeter/digital clock

To adjust the time manually, proceed as follows:

1.

2.

Turn the ignition switch ON ( ).

To advance the hour display one unit at a time, press and release the

3.

To advance the hour display automatically, press and hold the hour select (plus) button. After two seconds, the hour display will begin advancing. Release the button when the display reaches the desired hour.

To advance the minute display one unit at a time, press and release the

To advance the minute display automatically, press and hold the minute select (minus) button. After two seconds, the minute display will begin advancing. Release the button when the display reaches the desired minute.


25

04/03/09 15:18:23 31HN7610_035


(TRX400FA only)

To zero the minute display, press and hold both the hour and minute buttons simultaneously for two seconds.

TRX400FA TRX400FGA

(2)

(1) (3)

(1) hourmeter/digital clock select button mode select button

(TRX400FGA)

(1)

(2)

(2) hour select button

(3) plus button (TRX400FGA)


(TRX400FGA only)

Your ATV’s digital clock has an automatic adjustment function whenever the GPS mode is selected and the system’s satellite status is

3D Navigation (page 72 ).

26


04/03/09 15:18:31 31HN7610_036


Fuel Gauge

(Full), the fuel tank capacity including reserve is:

3.83 US gal (14.5 ) you should refill the tank as soon as possible. The amount of fuel left in the tank when the needle enters the red band is approximately:

0.92 US gal (3.5 )

(1)

(2)

(3)

(1) fuel gauge

(2) gauge needle

(3) red band


27

04/03/09 15:18:41 31HN7610_037

Controls & Features

Fuel Valve

LEFT SIDE

ON

(1)

OFF RES

(1) fuel valve

The manual fuel valve is located on the left side under the fuel tank.

The three-way fuel valve is used to control the flow of fuel from the fuel tank to the carburetor.

ON − normal position for riding.

OFF − for parking, storing, or transportation.

RES − for extra fuel to get to a gas supply for refueling.

Reserve Fuel

Remember to check that the fuel valve is in the ON position each time you refuel. If the valve is left in the RES position, you may run out of fuel with no reserve.

For complete information about fueling your ATV, see page 140 .

28


04/03/09 15:18:48 31HN7610_038


Choke Knob

CENTER OF HANDLEBAR

( A )

( B )

(1)

(1) choke knob (A) fully ON

(B) fully OFF

The choke knob may be used when starting the engine. See page 95 .


29

04/03/09 15:18:58 31HN7610_039


Ignition Switch

The ignition switch is used for starting and stopping the engine (page

95 ). Insert the key and turn it to the right for the ON position.

Key Position

ON ( )

OFF ( )

Function

Electrical circuits on.

No electrical circuits function.

CENTER OF HANDLEBAR

(1) ignition switch ON

OFF

(1)

30


04/03/09 15:19:07 31HN7610_040


Start Button

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(2)

(1) start button

(2) engine stop switch

(1)

START

OFF

RUN starts the engine. See Starting Procedure, page 95 .

When the start button is pushed, the starter motor will crank the engine.

The starter motor will not operate if the engine stop switch is in the OFF position when the start button is pushed.

Engine Stop Switch

To operate, press the switch to either OFF ( ) position. The switch must be in the RUN ( ) position to start the engine, and it should normally remain in the RUN ( ) position even when the engine is

OFF ( ).

If your ATV is stopped with the ignition switch ON ( ) and the engine stop switch OFF ( ), the battery will discharge. Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ) to prevent battery discharge.


31

04/03/09 15:19:16 31HN7610_041


Headlight Switch

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(2)

(1)

(1) headlight switch

(2) headlight dimmer switch

ON

OFF

HI

LO

The headlight switch ( ) is used to turn the headlight ON ( ) or OFF

( ). To operate, turn the switch to ON ( ) or OFF ( ).

Headlight Dimmer Switch

and low beams of the headlight. To operate, turn the switch to HI ( ) for high beam, LO ( ) for low beam.

The headlight dimmer switch will not change the assist headlight beam.

32


04/03/09 15:19:21 31HN7610_042

Drive Mode Select Switch

See Shif ting Gears page 102 .

RIGHT HANDLEBAR


(1) drive mode select switch

(1)


33

04/03/09 15:19:27 31HN7610_043


Gearshift Switch

Two gearshift switches are used in the manual shift (ESP) mode.

These switches are used to select the next higher or lower gear in the transmission. To operate, press the upshift switch to engage the next higher gear or press the downshift switch to engage the next lower gear.

See Shif ting Gears, page 103 .

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(1)

(2)

(1) upshift switch

(2) downshift switch

34


04/03/09 15:19:34 31HN7610_044


Shift Lever

Reverse (R).

See Shif ting Gears (page 100 ) and Riding in Reverse (page 106 ).

(1)

(1) shift lever


35

04/03/09 15:19:42 31HN7610_045


2WD/4WD Select Switch

Your ATV is equipped with a 2WD/4WD select switch, which permits a choice between the ‘‘2WD’’ and ‘‘4WD’’ drive modes. Select a drive mode that’s suitable for your riding.

select the drive mode, slide the 2WD/4WD select switch to the desired position.

2WD mode : the 4WD indicator goes off.

4WD mode : the 4WD indicator goes on.

4WD can only be engaged while the engine is running.

It remains engaged until the 2WD mode is selected or the engine is stopped.

Upon starting, your ATV will be in the 2WD mode, regardless of the

2WD/4WD select switch position.

2WD mode

(2)

(1)

(1) 2WD/4WD select switch

4WD mode

(2) 4WD indicator

36


04/03/09 15:19:51 31HN7610_046

Starting Primer Knob

LEFT SIDE


(1)

(1) starting primer knob

The knob may be used when starting the engine in extremely cold weather ( − 15°C, 5°F). See Starting Procedure, page 95 .

Recoil Starter

RIGHT SIDE

(2)

(2) recoil starter

See Using the Recoil Starter, page 99 .


37

04/03/09 15:19:57 31HN7610_047


Throttle Lever

RIGHT HANDLEBAR

(A)

(1)

(1) throttle lever

(A) to open the throttle

The throttle controls engine rpm (speed). To increase engine rpm, press on the lever. The throttle will automatically return to the closed position

(engine idle) when you remove your thumb.

38


04/03/09 15:20:05 31HN7610_048


Front Brake Lever

The front brake lever is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate, pull the lever. For information on braking techniques, see page 108 .

Rear Brake Lever

The rear brake lever is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate, pull the lever. For information on braking techniques, see page 108 .

Rear Brake Pedal

The rear brake pedal is used to slow or stop your ATV. To operate, depress the pedal. For information on braking techniques, see page 108 .


39

04/03/09 15:20:13 31HN7610_049


Parking Brake

LEFT HANDLEBAR (A)

(2)

(1)

(1) lock lever

(2) rear brake lever/ parking lever

(A) to lock parking brake. To operate, first squeeze the rear brake lever using your left hand and then lock it with the lock lever using your right hand. See

Parking page 122 .

The brake lights are activated by applying the parking brake. When using the parking brake, be sure to turn the ignition switch OFF to avoid discharging the battery.

40


04/03/09 15:20:20 31HN7610_050


Flag Pole Bracket

RIGHT REAR

(1)

(1) flag pole bracket

Flag poles are optional equipment available from your Honda dealer. To the flag pole kit.

Flag poles are required in some riding areas. Check local regulations before riding.


41

04/03/09 15:20:27 31HN7610_051


Trailer Hitch

REAR

(2)

(2) ball

(1)

(1) trailer hitch manufacturer.

To attach the ball and properly hook up a trailer, follow the trailer manufacturer’s instructions. For load limits and operational guidelines, see page 82 .

42


04/03/09 15:20:36 31HN7610_052


Accessory Socket

LEFT FRONT

(1)

(2)

(3)

(1) accessory socket

(2) front fender

(3) cap

CB radio, or cell phone, etc.

Do not plug in any heat-generating accessory such as an automobile cigarette lighter because it can damage the socket.

To use the accessory socket, turn the ignition switch ON ( ) to start the engine. Then turn the headlights OFF, and open the accessory socket cap


43

04/03/09 15:20:42 31HN7610_053


Be sure the engine is on and the headlights are turned off before using the accessory socket, otherwise you may drain the battery.

The accessory socket’s rated capacity is DC 12V, 120 Watts (10A) or less. If you exceed this limit, you may blow a fuse. See If a Fuse Blows, page 223 .

When you are done using an accessory, unplug it, and cover the socket with the cap.

Be careful not to flood this accessory socket when washing your ATV.

44


04/03/09 15:20:47 31HN7610_054

GPScape System (TRX400FGA only)

This section explains the GPScape navigation system. Instructions for the topics listed on this page are included.

Introduction ..........................................................................................

. 46

Important Safety Information ..............................................................

. 49

System Limitations ...............................................................................

. 50

System Start-up ....................................................................................

. 51

Position Fix ......................................................................................

. 51

System Failure to Display a Position Fix .........................................

. 52

Satellite Status ......................................................................................

. 54

GPS Mode ............................................................................................

. 56

GPS Mode Display ...........................................................................

. 58

Waypoint Number Display ..............................................................

. 59

Direction to Waypoint Display ........................................................

. 60

Distance to Waypoint ......................................................................

. 62

Basic Waypoint Selection ................................................................

. 63

Advanced Waypoint Selection .........................................................

. 65

Determining the Coordinates of Your Current Position ...................

. 69

Compass Direction Indicator ................................................................

. 70

Automatic Clock Adjustment ...............................................................

. 72

GPScape System

45

04/03/09 15:20:56 31HN7610_055

Introduction

Any location on Earth may be described by two positioning coordinates.

These two coordinates, measured by degrees, minutes, and seconds, are: latitude longitude

Latitudes are horizontal circles drawn around the Earth. The zero degree latitude (the equator) divides the globe into the Northern and Southern hemispheres.

LATITUDE

Northern

Hemisphere

90 ° N (North Pole)

0 ° latitude

(equator)

Southern

Hemisphere

90 ° S (South Pole)

Each circle contains 360 ° (degrees)

Each degree contains 60’ (minutes)

Each minute contains 60’’ (seconds)

46

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:21:02 31HN7610_056

Introduction

Longitudes, also called meridians, are vertical circles extended from the

North Pole to the South Pole. The zero degree longitude, which passes through Greenwich, England, divides the Earth into the Eastern and

Western hemispheres. The 180 degree longitude, half way around the planet, is the international date line.

LONGITUDE

0 ° longitude

(Greenwich, England)

Western

Hemisphere

North Pole

180 ° longitude

(international data line)

South Pole

Each longitude 69 miles wide

Each time zone equals 15 ° longitude

Eastern

Hemisphere

GPScape System

47

04/03/09 15:21:11 31HN7610_057

Introduction

Your ATV GPScape System receives signals from the Global

Positioning System (GPS), a U.S. government network that orbits the

Earth, then uses those signals to calculate your current position as well as the distance and direction to other locations (destinations).

In addition to latitude and longitude, GPScape also calculates altitude

(above sea level).

The primary uses of your GPScape System are: making your current location for future use as a waypoint (navigating position) inputting the latitude and longitude of a destination as a waypoint using the system to guide you to a waypoint

We’re sure you’ll enjoy using your GPScape System. It is an excellent navigation aid, but successful navigation also requires your careful attention to the terrain you are riding and your good judgment.

48

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:21:17 31HN7610_058


The GPScape System is designed to provide information to help you reach selected destinations. While this system provides the direction and distance to a destination, it does not provide an actual path. You must use your own observation of the terrain and good judgment in choosing a safe path to reach the destination.

Also, be aware that the system can distract your attention from operating your ATV if you focus too much on the display or operate the system’s controls while riding. Do not look at the display unless you decide you can do so safely.

Using the GPScape System while you are riding can take your attention away from the terrain, causing a crash in which you could be seriously injured or killed.

Do not look at the display for more than a second or so at a time while riding.

Stop your ATV if you need more time to look at the display or operate the system controls.

GPScape System

49

04/03/09 15:21:22 31HN7610_059

System Limitations

Your GPScape System uses signals from the Global Positioning System operated by the U.S. Department of Defense. For security reasons, certain inaccuracies are built into GPS that your navigation system must constantly compensate for. This can cause occasional positioning errors of up to several hundred feet.

Since GPScape receives information from satellites orbiting the Earth, your system’s receiver requires a relatively unobstructed view of the sky.

Obstructions that will limit your system’s sky view include (but are not limited to) buildings, canopies, heavy rain or snow, or tree foliage.

50

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:21:34 31HN7610_060

System Start-up

Position Fix

The GPScape System uses satellite information to compute your present position (called a position fix).

Depending on the elapsed time since the ignition was last switched OFF

( ), there are three approximate response times for the system to acquire your position fix.

Time Elapsed Since

Ignition Switched OFF less than 2 hours more than 2 hours, less than a month more than a month

Approximate Time for System to

Acquire Position Fix After

Turning Ignition ON

25 seconds

2 minutes

8 minutes

If your ATV is transported with the ignition switch OFF ( ) for over

60 miles (100 km) or if your ATV is not started for at least three months, we recommend that you reset your system by following the procedure on the following page, System Failure to Display a position Fix .

GPScape System

51

04/03/09 15:21:43 31HN7610_061

System Start-up

System Failure to Display a Position Fix

If the receiver does not get a position fix within about 8 minutes are no overhead obstructions (building, trees, canopy, etc.) and then perform the following:

(1)

(1) antenna mark

1.

Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ).

2.

3.

4.

Remove the seat (page

Remove the rear fender lid (page

Disconnect the negative ( and wait for 1 minute.

138 ).

−

193 ).

2

(3)

3

(2)

(2) negative ( − ) terminal lead

(3) battery

52

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:21:48 31HN7610_062

System Start-up

5.

Reconnect the negative ( − ) terminal lead and install in the reverse order of removal.

If you can not obtain a position fix after performing this procedure, see your Honda dealer.

GPScape System

53

04/03/09 15:22:00 31HN7610_063

Satellite Status

The satellite status indicates the amount of information received from

GPS satellites in one of three possible categories:

Display Status

Not Usable The system is signaling

(flashing antenna mark) that your position fix is not available.

2D Navigation

3D Navigation

The system has determined latitude and longitude, but is unable to determine altitude.

2D Navigation is not as accurate as 3D Navigation.

The system has determined latitude, longitude, and altitude. The receiver is ready to provide navigational information.

(1)

(1) satellite status (signal strength indicator )

If there are large obstacles nearby or overhead, move to a new location with a clear view of the sky.

54

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:22:05 31HN7610_064

Satellite Status

See your Honda dealer to check and restore the GPScape System.

(2)

(2) GPS mark

GPScape System

55

04/03/09 15:22:10 31HN7610_065

GPS Mode

A waypoint is a geographical position (location) on the surface of the

Earth. GPScape allows you to log up to 100 positions as navigational waypoints. You may then use GPScape to show you the direction of any selected waypoint, and how far you are from that waypoint via straightline travel.

You may mark such waypoints as home, base camp, your favorite riding, fishing, or hunting spots, as well as locations of wildlife sightings.

Because you have 100 waypoints available, you may mark several intersections or landmarks as waypoints during a trail ride.

56

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:22:19 31HN7610_066

GPS Mode waypoint. And, when your ATV is moving (one mph or faster), the GPS mode also displays an electronic arrow to indicate the direction to the selected waypoint.

the other four modes: odometer, tripmeter, hourmeter, and digital clock.

Any time you are not in the GPS mode, the compass direction indicator

70 ).

(3)

In any mode other than GPS

(direction of travel)

GPS mode

(direction and mileage to waypoint)

(1)

(2)

(1) GPS mode

(2) mode select button

(3) compass direction indicator

GPScape System

57

04/03/09 15:22:32 31HN7610_067

GPS Mode

GPS Mode Display

GPS Function Digital Readout

0 − 99 distance to waypoint ( ) ‘‘- - -’’

(3 digits for miles, and if applicable, tenths and hundredths, with a floating decimal) signal is active.

(1)

(4)

(5)

(1) GPS mode display

(2) waypoint number

(3) distance to waypoint

58

GPScape System

(6) (2) (3)

(4) direction to waypoint

(5) GPS mark

(6) signal strength indicator

04/03/09 15:22:42 31HN7610_068

GPS Mode

Waypoint Number Display

A waypoint number appears in the display when the GPS mode is selected. You can store up to 100 waypoints, numbered from 0-99. To mark a waypoint, see page 63 .

To select a waypoint number:

To select a higher waypoint number, press and release the plus button

To select a lower waypoint number, press and release the minus

To fast scroll: press and hold the plus or minus button until the desired waypoint number appears.

(3)

(1) waypoint number

(2) plus button

(2)

(1)

(3) minus button

GPScape System

59

04/03/09 15:22:50 31HN7610_069

GPS Mode

Direction to Waypoint Display

to your destination. The display has 16 possible directions.

While operating in reverse, GPS will continue to direct you as if your

ATV is still moving in a forward direction. However, the system will calculate an accurate distance and display a directional arrow to the selected waypoint.

(1)

(1) direction to waypoint display

When your ATV approaches within about 16 feet of the waypoint, the direction to waypoint display will change from a directional arrow to an

(2)

(2) eight-point star

60

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:22:58 31HN7610_070

GPS Mode

If the receiver loses a position fix (because of a large obstacle nearby or overhead), the direction to waypoint display will disappear as shown in

The distance to waypoint display will continue to display the last value shown before the loss of the position fix.

(3)

(3) antenna mark

If the receiver reacquires a position fix, the direction to waypoint display will appear as shown in the illustration.

GPScape System

61

04/03/09 15:23:06 31HN7610_071

GPS Mode

Distance to Waypoint

from your present location to the waypoint.

The distance range display shows three numerals with a ‘‘floating’’ decimal:

Range

Less than 10 miles

10 miles up to 1,000 miles

Display

0.01

− 9.99

10 − 999

(1) distance to waypoint (1)

62

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:23:21 31HN7610_072

GPS Mode

There are two methods for marking waypoints.

Basic (to select your current position)

Advanced (to input desired destinations)

Basic Waypoint Selection

To Mark Your Present Position:

1.

2.

3.


Use the mode select button to select the GPS mode.


4.

To fast scroll, press and hold the plus or minus button until the desired waypoint number appears.

waypoint number flashes. Then release the button.

(Within 5 seconds, push and hold the plus and minus buttons for more than 2 seconds to delete the data of the waypoint number.)

(2) (3)

(4)

(1) waypoint number

(2) plus button

(1)

(3) minus button

(4) WP button

GPScape System

63

04/03/09 15:23:28 31HN7610_073

GPS Mode

5.

Within 5 seconds, to mark your present position, tap (do not hold) the

WP button. (The waypoint will not be set unless the WP button is pressed a second time. Do not hold the WP button down. This will cause the system to transition to the advanced waypoint entry procedure.) illustration.

In the 2D Navigation status, the calculated waypoint location may not be as accurate as 3D Navigation.

(1)

(1) direction to waypoint display

As soon as you start moving (one mph or faster), the direction to waypoint arrow will appear, pointing toward the selected waypoint location.

64

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:23:44 31HN7610_074

GPS Mode

Advanced Waypoint Selection

Advanced Latitude & Longitude Entry Sequence latitude 1 - -°

(degrees) longitude 1 - -°

(degrees)

2 2

3

- -’

(minutes)

- -

(seconds)

3

- -’

(minutes)

- -

(seconds)

4 .-’’

(tenths of second)

4 .-’’

(tenths of second)

To input a waypoint value using latitude and longitude coordinates:

(2) (3)

(4)

(1)

(1) waypoint number

(2) plus button

(3) minus button

(4) WP button

GPScape System

65

04/03/09 15:23:52 31HN7610_075

GPS Mode

1.

2.

3.


Use the mode select button to select the GPS mode.


To fast scroll, press and hold the plus or minus button until the desired waypoint number appears.

4.

5.

waypoint number flashes. Then release the button.

While the display is still blinking, press and hold the WP button again for about 2 seconds until LAT appears above the WP mark. The

6.

other hemisphere, press either the plus or minus button.)

(5)

(6)

(5) Northern Latitude

(6) Southern Latitude

66

GPScape System

(7) degree

(7)

04/03/09 15:24:05 31HN7610_076

GPS Mode

7.

To select your entry:

To increase, tap the plus button.

To decrease, tap the minus button.

To fast change in units of 10, press and hold the plus button (to increase) or the minus button (to decrease) until the desired entry appears.

8.

To enter the displayed value into the system, tap (do not hold) the WP

9.

button. The next level in the entry sequence will begin flashing.

8 − follow the same procedure used in steps 7 − 8 .

(8) minute

10.

used in steps 7 − 8 .

(8)

9 − follow the same procedure

(9)

(9) second (10) tenths of second

(10)

GPScape System

67

04/03/09 15:24:15 31HN7610_077

GPS Mode

11.

To select the tenths of a second ( 10 ):

To increase, tap the plus button.

To decrease, tap the minus button.

12.

To enter the displayed tenths of a second in the system, tap (do not hold) the WP button until LON appears above the WP mark. The compass direction indicator will flash Eastern Longitude ( 11 ) or

Western Longitude ( 12 ).

(To switch to the other hemisphere, press either the plus or minus button.)

(11)

(13)

(12)

(11) Eastern Longitude

(12) Western Longitude

(13) mode select button

13.

To enter the longitude coordinates, follow the same procedure used in steps 6 − 11 .

68

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:24:25 31HN7610_078

GPS Mode

To Correct Input:

Push the mode select button ( 13 ). This reverses the sequence so you can back up and make a correction.

Once the 1/10 second longitude entry is completed, you can no longer back up in the sequence to make a correction.

To Change the Coordinates f or an Existing Waypoint Number:

Follow steps 1 − 4 under Advance Waypoint Selection

‘‘overwrite’’ your previous waypoint.

(page 65 ) and

Determining the Coordinates of Your Current Position

1.

2.

3.

If your current position is not already marked, mark it (page 63 ).

Press and hold the WP button until the display begins blinking.

While the display is still blinking, press and hold the WP button again

4.

until the display shows LAT degrees and minutes.

Tap (do not hold) the WP button repeatedly to sequence through the

5.

coordinates display.

Tap the WP button again to return to the distance to waypoint display.

GPScape System

69

04/03/09 15:24:39 31HN7610_079

Compass Direction Indicator

The compass direction indicator does not appear when the system is in the GPS mode. Instead, you will see the direction to waypoint arrow − as long as your ATV is moving (one mph or faster).

when the system is in the odometer, tripmeter, hourmeter, or digital clock mode − as long as your ATV is moving (one mph of faster).

Your ATV must be moving to allow GPScape to calculate your present direction compared to your previous location.

(1)

(1) compass direction indicator

The compass direction indicator displays 8 possible directions:

N

S

E

W

North

South

East

West

NW

NE

SW

SE

Northwest

Northeast

Southwest

Southeast

70

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:24:45 31HN7610_080

Compass Direction Indicator

If the receiver loses a position fix (because of a large obstacle nearby or overhead), the compass direction indicator will disappear as shown in

(2)

(2) antenna mark

If the receiver reacquires a position fix, the compass direction indicator will appear as shown in the illustration.

GPScape System

71

04/03/09 15:24:52 31HN7610_081

Automatic Clock Adjustment

Your ATV digital clock has an automatic adjustment function when the system’s satellite status is 3D Navigation (page 54 ).

The system will adjust the digital clock display after receiving the basic

UT (universal time, formerly referred to as Greenwich Mean Time) and then calculating your local time.

The automatic digital clock adjustment will start to function about one minute after your ATV’s battery is connected and the initial manual clock adjustment is completed.

The automatic time adjustment should be accurate within plus-or-minus

5 minutes. To switch between standard and daylight saving time, adjust the clock manually (page 25 ).

72

GPScape System

04/03/09 15:24:57 31HN7610_082

Before Riding

Before each ride, you need to make sure you and your Honda are both ready to ride. To help get you prepared, this section discusses how to evaluate your riding readiness, what items you should check on your

ATV, and adjustments to make for your comfort, convenience, or safety.

This section also includes important information about loading.

Are You Ready to Ride ?

.....................................................................

. 74

Protective Apparel ............................................................................

. 74

Rider Training ..................................................................................

. 76

Age Recommendation ......................................................................

. 77

No Passengers ..................................................................................

. 77

No Alcohol or Drugs ........................................................................

. 78

Is Your ATV Ready to Ride ?

..............................................................

. 79

Pre-ride Inspection ...........................................................................

. 79

Load Limits & Guidelines ....................................................................

. 82

Loading ............................................................................................

. 82

Load Limits ......................................................................................

. 83

Loading Guidelines ..........................................................................

. 84

Accessories & Modifications ...............................................................

. 85

Accessories .......................................................................................

. 85

Modifications ...................................................................................

. 86

Before Riding

73

04/03/09 15:25:09 31HN7610_083

Are You Ready to Ride?

Before you ride your ATV for the first time, we urge you to:

Read this owner’s manual and the labels on your ATV carefully.

Make sure you understand all the safety messages.

Know how to operate all the controls.

Before each ride, be sure:

You feel well and are in good physical and mental condition.

You are wearing an approved motorcycle helmet (with chin strap tightened securely), eye protection, and other protective clothing.

You don’t have any alcohol or drugs in your system.

Protective Apparel

For your safety, we strongly recommend that you always wear an approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket whenever you ride.

Although complete protection is not possible, wearing proper gear can reduce the chance of injury when you ride.

Following are suggestions to help you choose the proper gear.

Helmets and Eye Protection

Your helmet is your most important piece of riding gear because it offers the best protection against head injuries. A helmet should fit your head comfortably and securely.

74

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:25:17 31HN7610_084


An open-face helmet offers some protection, but a full-face helmet offers more. Regardless of the style, look for a DOT (Department of

Transportation) sticker in any helmet you buy (USA only). Always wear a face shield or goggles to protect your eyes and help your vision.

Operating this ATV without wearing an approved motorcycle helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing could increase your chances of severe injury or death in the event of an accident.

Always wear an approved motorcycle helmet that fits properly and wear eye protection

(goggles or face shield), gloves, boots, long-sleeved shirt or jacket and long pants.

Additional Riding Gear

In addition to a helmet and eye protection, we also recommend:

Sturdy off-road motorcycle boots to help protect your feet, ankles, and lower legs.

Off-road motorcycle gloves to help protect your hands.

Riding pants with knee and hip pads, a riding jersey with padded elbows, and a chest/shoulder protector.

Before Riding

75

04/03/09 15:25:24 31HN7610_085


Rider Training

Developing your riding skills is an on-going process. Even if you have ridden other ATVs, take time to become familiar with how this ATV works and handles. Practice riding the ATV in a safe area to build your skills. Do not ride in rough terrain until you get accustomed to the

ATV’s controls, and feel comfortable with its size and weight.

We urge all riders to take a certified course approved by the ATV Safety

Institute (ASI). For information about the ASI training course nearest you, call the national toll-free number; (800) 887-2887 (USA only).

Other riding tips can be found in the

Rider

Tips & Practice Guide f or the ATV booklet that came with your ATV (USA only).

Operating this ATV without proper instruction could increase your risk of an accident which could lead to serious injury or death.

Beginning and inexperienced operators should complete the certified training course offered by

Honda. They should then regularly practice the skills learned in the course and the operating techniques described in the owner’s manual.

76

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:25:32 31HN7610_086


Age Recommendation

The minimum recommended age for this ATV model is 16. For safety, never let children under 16 years old operate this vehicle.

A child using an ATV that is not recommended for their age could lose vehicle control while riding, resulting in severe injury or death.

A child under 16 should never operate an ATV with engine size greater than 90cc.

No Passengers

This ATV is designed as an operator-only vehicle. The long seat is designed to allow the rider to change body position, not for carrying a passenger. Never let a passenger ride on the seat or on the front or rear cargo racks.

Carrying a passenger on this ATV greatly reduces your ability to balance and control this

ATV and could cause a crash and you or your passenger could be injured or killed.

Never carry a passenger on this ATV.

Before Riding

77

04/03/09 15:25:37 31HN7610_087


No Alcohol or Drugs

Alcohol, drugs and ATVs don’t mix. Even a small amount of alcohol can impair your ability to operate an ATV safely. Likewise, drugs − even if prescribed by a physician − can be dangerous while operating an

ATV. Consult your doctor to be sure it is safe to operate a vehicle after taking medication.

Operating this ATV after consuming alcohol or drugs can seriously affect your judgement, cause you to react more slowly, affect your balance and perception, and result in serious injury or death.

Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while operating this ATV.

78

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:25:46 31HN7610_088

Is Your ATV Ready to Ride?

Before each ride, it’s important to inspect your ATV and make sure any problem you find is corrected. A pre-ride inspection is a must, not only for safety, but because having a breakdown, or even a flat tire, can be a major inconvenience.

If your ATV has overturned or been involved in a collision, do not ride the vehicle until it has been inspected by your Honda dealer. There may be damage or other problems you cannot see.

Improperly maintaining this ATV or failing to correct a problem before riding can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always perform a pre-ride inspection before every ride and correct any problems.

Pre-ride Inspection

Check the following items before you get on the ATV:

Engine Oil Check the level and add oil if needed (page

145 ).

Check for leaks.

(cont’d)

Before Riding

79

04/03/09 15:26:00 31HN7610_089


Fuel

Tires

Driveshaf t Boots

Nuts & Bolts

Underbody &

Exhaust System

Air Cleaner Housing

Drain Tube

Leaks, Loose Parts

Cable

Check the level and add fuel (page 140 needed. Also make sure the fuel fill cap is

) if securely fastened.

Check for leaks.

Use a gauge to check the air pressure. Adjust if needed. Also look for signs of damage or excessive wear (page 185 ).

Check for damage (page 190 ).

Check the wheels to see that the axle nuts are tightened. Use a wrench to make sure all accessible nuts, bolts, and fasteners are tight.

Check for, and remove, any dirt, vegetation or other debris that could be a fire hazard or interfere with the proper operation of the vehicle.

Check for deposits in the drain tube. If necessary, clean the tube (page the air cleaner housing.

159 ) and check

Walk around your ATV and look for anything that appears unusual, such as a leak or loose cable.

Check the cable housings for wear. Check the fittings for looseness. Replace or tighten as needed.

80

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:26:14 31HN7610_090


If you are carrying cargo, also check the following:

Loading Limits Make sure you do not exceed the load limits

(page 83 ).

Cargo Check that all cargo is secure.

Check these items after you get on the ATV:

Throttle Check the freeplay and adjust if needed. Press the throttle to make sure it moves smoothly without sticking, and snaps shut automatically when it is released, in all steering positions

(page 160 ).

Brakes Squeeze the front and rear brake levers and step on the rear brake pedal to check that the controls operate normally. Check for proper freeplay (pages , , ). Make sure there is no brake fluid leakage.

Headlight and

Headlight Dimmer

Switch

Check for proper function (page 32 ).

Engine Stop

Switch

Steering

Check for proper function (page 31 ).

Check that the wheels turn properly as you steer the handlebar.

Before Riding

81

04/03/09 15:26:22 31HN7610_091

Load Limits & Guidelines

Your Honda was designed as a rider-only ATV. It was not designed to carry a passenger. It can carry cargo on the cargo racks, however, carrying cargo anywhere else or carrying a passenger could interfere with your balance and control of the ATV.

In addition, exceeding the weight limits or carrying an unbalanced load can seriously affect your ATV’s handling, braking, and stability.

Adding accessories or making modifications that change this ATV’s design and performance can also make it unsafe. Also, the weight of any accessories will reduce the maximum load the ATV can carry.

More specific information on load limits, accessories, and modifications follows.

Loading

How much weight you put on your ATV, and how you load it, are important to your safety. If you decide to carry cargo, you should be aware of the following information.

Overloading, improper loading, or carrying a passenger can cause a crash and you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual.

82

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:26:36 31HN7610_092


Load Limits

Following are the load limits for your ATV:

There are limits to how much weight can be carried on your ATV and be pulled in a trailer.

The following load limits apply to standard equipment only. Modifying your ATV, using non-standard equipment, or riding on terrain that is not flat and smooth could further reduce these limits.

maximum weight capacity 485 lbs (220 kg)

(includes the weight of the rider, all cargo, and accessories.) front cargo rack weight limit rear cargo rack weight limit tow weight limit

(Combined weight of the trailer and all cargo in the trailer) tongue weight

(Weight on the trailer tongue) tongue and rear cargo weight

(Combined weight on the trailer tongue and on the rear cargo rack)

=

=

=

66 lbs (30 kg)

133 lbs (60 kg)

850 lbs ｛ 385 kgf ｝

(3776 N)

=

=

30 lbs ｛ 14 kgf ｝

(137 N) recommended

133 lbs (60 kg)

Tongue weight can be measured with an ordinary bathroom scale. Place the scale under the tongue, using either a tongue jack or other support to keep the trailer level.

The weight of added accessories will reduce the maximum cargo weight you can carry.

Before Riding

83

04/03/09 15:26:51 31HN7610_093


Loading Guidelines

Carrying cargo or pulling a trailer will affect how your ATV handles and greatly reduce its ability in accelerating, braking and making turns and other maneuvers.

Be sure to observe the weight limits and follow these guidelines:

Check that the tires are properly inflated.

Do not place cargo anywhere on the ATV other than on the front and rear racks. Otherwise, operating stability may be adversely affected.

Never ride with a passenger on the front or rear cargo racks. The

ATV is not designed to carry a passenger.

Use the trailer hitch to tow another vehicle or trailer. Do not tow by tying a rope or cable to the rear rack.

Load cargo on the rear rack as far forward as possible. Make sure cargo on the front rack does not interfere with handlebar movement.

Do not allow cargo to extend beyond the edges of either the front or rear racks.

Make sure all cargo is secured before riding.

Balance cargo weight evenly on both sides.

Never exceed the maximum weight limit.

When towing a trailer, take care to maintain balance and stability.

Distribute cargo between the front and rear of the trailer to obtain the recommended tongue weight.

Allow extra room for starting, stopping and turning whenever you carry cargo or pull a trailer.

Avoid riding on steep slopes when carrying cargo or pulling a trailer.

Never cross a slope when towing a trailer.

84

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:27:00 31HN7610_094

Accessories & Modifications

Modifying your ATV or using non-Honda accessories can make your

ATV unsafe.

Before you consider making any modifications or adding an accessory, be sure to read the following information.

Improper accessories or modifications can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding accessories and modifications.

Accessories

We strongly recommend that you use only genuine Honda accessories that have been specifically designed and tested for your ATV. Because

Honda cannot test all other accessories, you must be personally responsible for proper selection, installation, and use of non-Honda accessories.

Check with your Honda dealer for assistance and always follow these guidelines:

Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, reduce ground clearance, limit suspension travel or steering travel, or interfere with operating any controls.

Make sure the accessory does not interfere with your ability to shift body position on the seat or operate hand and foot controls.

Do not add any electrical equipment that will exceed the vehicle’s electrical system capacity (page of lights or engine power (page

235 ). A blown fuse can cause a loss

223 ).

Before Riding

85

04/03/09 15:27:06 31HN7610_095

Accessories & Modifications

Modifications

We strongly advise you not to remove any original equipment or modify your ATV in any way that would change its design or operation. Such changes could seriously impair your ATV’s handling, stability, and braking, making it unsafe to ride.

We also advise you not to make any modifications or remove any equipment (such as the USDA qualified spark arrester or emission control system components) that would make your ATV illegal in your area.

Removing or modifying your lights, exhaust system, emission control system, or other equipment can also make your ATV illegal.

86

Before Riding

04/03/09 15:27:12 31HN7610_096

Basic Operation & Riding

This section gives basic riding instructions, including how to start and stop your engine, and how to use the throttle and brakes. It also provides important information on riding with cargo.

To protect your new engine and enjoy optimum performance and service life, refer to Break-in Guidelines (page 236 ).

For information about carburetor adjustment for riding at high altitude, see page 237 .

Safe Riding Precautions .......................................................................

. 89

Off-Road Use Only ..........................................................................

. 89

Keeps Hands and Feet on Controls ..................................................

. 90

Control Speed ...................................................................................

. 91

Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain .......................................

. 92

Do Not Perform Stunts .....................................................................

. 93

Starting & Stopping the Engine ...........................................................

. 94

Preparation .......................................................................................

. 94

Starting Procedure ............................................................................

. 95

Flooded Engine ................................................................................

. 97

Stalled Engine ..................................................................................

. 97

How to Stop the Engine ...................................................................

. 98

Using the Recoil Starter ...................................................................

. 99

Shifting Gears ....................................................................................

. 100

Riding in Reverse ...............................................................................

. 106

(cont’d)


87

04/03/09 15:27:16 31HN7610_097


Braking ...............................................................................................

. 108

Riding Your ATV ..............................................................................

. 110

Making Turns .................................................................................

. 110

Skidding or Sliding ........................................................................

. 112

Riding Up Hills ..............................................................................

. 113

Riding Down Hills .........................................................................

. 117

Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes ..........................................

. 118

Riding Over Obstacles ...................................................................

. 120

Riding Through Water ...................................................................

. 121

Parking ...............................................................................................

. 122

88


04/03/09 15:27:24 31HN7610_098

Safe Riding Precautions

Before riding your ATV for the first time, please review the ATV Saf ety section beginning on page 1, and the Bef ore Riding on page 73 .

section beginning

Even if you have ridden other ATVs, take time to become familiar with how this ATV works and handles. Practice in a safe area until you build your skills and get accustomed to the ATV’s size and weight.

Off-Road Use Only

Your ATV and its tires are designed and manufactured for off-road use only, not for pavement. Riding on pavement can affect handling and control. You should not ride your ATV on pavement.

Operating this ATV on paved surfaces may seriously affect handling and control of the ATV, and may cause the vehicle to go out of control.

Never operate the ATV on any paved surfaces, including sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and streets.

When riding off-road, also remember to always obey local off-road riding laws and regulations. Obtain permission to ride on private property. Avoid posted areas and obey ‘‘no trespassing’’ signs.

(cont’d)


89

04/03/09 15:27:31 31HN7610_099


You should never ride your ATV on public streets, roads or highways, even if they are not paved. Drivers of street vehicles may have difficulty seeing and avoiding you, which could lead to a collision. In many states it is illegal to operate ATVs on public streets, roads and highways.

Operating this ATV on public streets, roads or highways could cause you to collide with another vehicle.

Never operate this ATV on any public street, road or highway, even a dirt or gravel one.

Keep Hands and Feet on Controls

Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footpegs when riding your ATV. This is important to maintain your balance and to control the vehicle. Removing even one hand from the handlebars or one foot from the footpegs can reduce your ability to control the ATV or could cause you to lose your balance and fall off the ATV.

Removing hands from handlebars or feet from footpegs during operation can reduce your ability to control the ATV or could cause you to lose your balance and fall off of the ATV.

Always keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footpegs of your ATV during operation.

90


04/03/09 15:27:37 31HN7610_100


Control Speed

Riding at excessive speed increases the chance of an accident. In choosing a proper speed, you need to consider the capability of your vehicle, the terrain, visibility and other operating conditions, plus your own skills and experience.

Operating this ATV at excessive speeds increases your chances of losing control of the

ATV, which can result in an accident.

Always go at a speed that is proper for your vehicle, the terrain, visibility and other operating conditions, and your experience.


91

04/03/09 15:27:42 31HN7610_101


Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain

Before riding in a new area, always check the terrain thoroughly. Don’t ride fast on unfamiliar terrain or when visibility is limited. (It’s sometimes difficult to see obstructions like hidden rocks, bumps, or holes in time to react.)

Failure to use extra care when operating this

ATV on unfamiliar terrain could result in the ATV overturning or going out of control.

Go slowly and be extra careful when operating on unfamiliar terrain. Always be alert to changing terrain conditions when operating the

ATV.

92


04/03/09 15:27:49 31HN7610_102


Never ride past the limit of visibility. Maintain a safe distance between your ATV and other off-road vehicles. Always exercise caution, and use extra care on rough, slippery and loose terrain.

Failure to use extra care when operating on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain could cause loss of traction or vehicle control, which could result in an accident, including an overturn.

Do not operate on excessively rough, slippery or loose terrain until you have learned and practiced the skills necessary to control the ATV on such terrain. Always be especially cautious on these kinds of terrain.

Do Not Perform Stunts

You should always operate your ATV in a safe and reasonable manner.

When riding, always keep all four wheels on the ground.

Attempting wheelies, jumps, and other stunts increases the chance of an accident, including an overturn.

Never attempt stunts, such as wheelies or jumps. Don’t try to show off.


93

04/03/09 15:28:01 31HN7610_103

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Always follow the proper starting procedure described below.

For your safety, avoid starting or operating the engine in an enclosed area such as a garage. Your ATV’s exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas which can collect rapidly in an enclosed area and cause illness or death.

Preparation

(1)

(2)

(3)

(1) fuel valve

(2) ignition switch


(4) engine stop switch

(4)

1.

Before starting, select a level surface and lock the parking brake

(page 40 ).

2.

1 ).

Confirm the following:

The engine stop switch ( ) is set to RUN ( ).

The oil high temperature indicator should go off a few seconds after the engine starts.

94


04/03/09 15:28:13 31HN7610_104


Starting Procedure

To restart a warm engine, follow the procedure for

Temperature.’’

‘‘High Air

The starter motor will operate only when the transmission is in neutral.

Normal Air Temperature 10° − 35°C (50° − 95°F)

CENTER OF HANDLEBAR

( A )

(1)

( B )

(1) choke knob

1.

2.

the engine is cold.

With the throttle closed, press the start button.

Pressing the electric start button for more than 5 seconds at a time may cause the starter to overheat and damage the starter. Release the start button for approximately 10 seconds before pressing it again.

3.

Immediately after the engine starts, operate the choke knob to keep fast idle.

4.

Continue warming up the engine until it runs smoothly and responds

5.

If idling is unstable, open the throttle slightly.


95

04/03/09 15:28:24 31HN7610_105


High Air Temperature 35°C (95°F) or above

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(1)

(1) start button

1.

Do not use the choke.

2.

Low Air Temperature 10°C (50°F) or below

Follow the procedure for ‘‘Normal Air Temperature.’’

When air temperature is below − 15°C (5°F), push the starting primer knob two or three times (page 37 ).

Extended use of the choke may impair piston and cylinder wall lubrication and shorten the lif e of the engine.

Do not race the engine during the warm-up period.

Racing a cold engine wastes fuel and increases engine wear.

96


04/03/09 15:28:37 31HN7610_106


Flooded Engine

If the engine fails to start after repeated attempts, it may be flooded with excess fuel. To clear a flooded engine:

1.

Move the engine stop switch to OFF ( ).

2.

3.

4.

Push the choke knob down all the way to fully OFF.

Open the throttle fully.

Press the start button for 5 seconds (or operate the recoil starter several times).

5.

6.

Wait 10 seconds, then turn the engine stop switch to RUN (

Repeat the ‘‘Normal Air Temperature’’ use the choke.

).

starting procedure, but don’t

If the engine still won’t start, refer to

Start, page 214 .

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t

Stalled Engine

If the engine stalls, shift into Neutral (N) and restart the engine.

If you are unable to shift to Neutral (N) from Drive (D), you can restart the engine by squeezing the front brake lever and pressing the start button while the vehicle is stopped.

Do not press the throttle lever while starting in gear. Your ATV is equipped with a start inhibitor system that will cut off the ignition if the throttle is open while attempting to start in gear.

Once you have started the engine, release the front brake lever, then apply throttle gradually.


97

04/03/09 15:28:45 31HN7610_107


How to Stop the Engine

Normal Engine Stop

To stop the engine, make sure the transmission is in neutral by checking that the neutral indicator lights, and turn the ignition switch OFF.

The engine stop switch should normally remain in the RUN ( ) position even when the engine is OFF.

If your ATV is stopped with the engine stop switch OFF ( ) and the ignition switch ON, the battery will discharge.

Emergency Engine Stop

To stop the engine in an emergency, use the engine stop switch. To operate, move the switch to either OFF position.

98


04/03/09 15:28:54 31HN7610_108


Using the Recoil Starter

The recoil starter is used to start the engine when the battery is low.

To operate the recoil starter:

1.

2.

3.

4.

4 in (100 mm).

Pull the grip up briskly and fully.

After the engine starts, allow the starter grip to return slowly.

If the starter grip does not return smoothly (because of dirt in the assembly), see your Honda dealer.

RIGHT SIDE

(2)

(1)

(1) right side cover (2) recoil starter grip


99

04/03/09 15:29:04 31HN7610_109

Shifting Gears

Your ATV has three shift lever positions: Neutral (N), Drive (D), and

Reverse (R).

Neutral (N)

Use neutral when you start the engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling.

Drive (D)

Use this position for normal riding. The following two modes can be selected in the Drive (D) position; Automatic shift (AUTO) mode and

Manual shift (ESP) mode.

You can select the desired mode with the drive mode select switch

(page 33 ).

Automatic Shift (AUTO) Mode:

Use this mode for everyday riding. The transmission automatically adjusts to keep the engine at the best speed for riding conditions.

The gear position indicator shows ‘‘D’’ and the drive mode indicator disappears.

Manual shift (ESP) mode:

In this mode, you can shift gears much like a manual transmission, but without operating a clutch.

You can select five forward shift positions by operating the shift switches; 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

The gear position indicator shows the selected position and the drive mode indicator shows ‘‘ESP.’’

When you tow a trailer, select the 1st shift position for proper performance.

Reverse (R)

Use this position to ride in reverse.

100


04/03/09 15:29:11 31HN7610_110

Shifting Gears

To shift the shift lever, bring the ATV to a complete stop.

If the shif t lever is moved while the vehicle is moving, the subtransmission may be damaged.

(1)

(1) shift lever


101

04/03/09 15:29:17 31HN7610_111

Shifting Gears switches.

To select the drive mode, bring the ATV to a complete stop and turn the drive mode select switch.

The mode will not change if the switch is operated while the vehicle is moving.

(2) drive mode select switch

(2)

102


04/03/09 15:29:26 31HN7610_112

Shifting Gears

Two gearshift switches are located next to the left handlebar grip: upshift ( ) and downshift ( ).

UPSHIFTING SEQUENCE

(3)

DOWNSHIFTING SEQUENCE

(A)

(3) upshift switch

(4) downshift switch

(A)

(A) press

(4)


103

04/03/09 15:29:40 31HN7610_113

Shifting Gears

After starting the engine and letting it warm up, follow these procedures:

1.

Being your ATV to a complete stop, select the ESP mode and shift the shift lever into the ‘‘D’’ position.


2.

3.

4.

Release the parking brake, but continue squeezing the rear brake lever.

Release the rear brake lever and increase engine speed by gradually opening the throttle.

When speed increases, release the throttle and upshift to 2nd position

5.

by pressing the upshift switch once.

Repeat this sequence to progressively upshift to 3rd, 4th and 5th (top)

6.

position.

To downshift, press the downshift switch once. Remember to close the throttle each time you shift to the next lower position.

Learning when to shift gears in Manual Shift (ESP) Mode comes with experience. Keep the following tips in mind:

As a general rule, shift while moving in a straight line.

Close the throttle completely before shifting. Improper shifting may damage the engine, transmission, and drive train.

Upshift to a higher gear or reduce throttle before engine rpm (speed) gets too high. Learn the relationship between engine sound and the normal shifting points.

Downshift to a lower gear before you feel the engine laboring

(lugging) at low rpm.

Avoid downshifting to help slow your ATV when engine rpm is high.

Downshifting when engine speed is near its allowable maximum may over-rev the engine and cause possible damage.

104


04/03/09 15:29:45 31HN7610_114

Shifting Gears

To prevent transmission damage, do not coast or tow the ATV for long distances with the engine off.

Ride in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you good fuel economy and effective emissions control.


105

04/03/09 15:29:53 31HN7610_115

Riding in Reverse

If you need to ride in reverse, make sure the area behind you is clear and only operate the ATV at low speed.

Improperly operating in reverse could cause you to hit an obstacle or person behind you, resulting in serious injury.

Make sure there are no obstacles or people behind you before selecting reverse gear. When it is safe to proceed, go slowly.

1.

Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, then make sure the transmission is in neutral.

2.

3.

Depress and hold down the brake pedal.

Be sure there are no obstacles or people in the way.

4.

Shift the shift lever into ‘‘R’’ (Reverse) gear.


5.

6.

Release the rear brake pedal.

Open the throttle gradually and ride slowly. Do not open the throttle suddenly or make abrupt turns.

106


04/03/09 15:29:58 31HN7610_116

Riding in Reverse

7.

To stop, close the throttle and gradually apply both the front and rear brakes. Do not abruptly apply the rear brake by itself.

8.

To shift out of reverse and into neutral, shift the shift lever into ‘‘N’’

(Neutral) gear.

Applying only the rear brake abruptly when operating in reverse gear could cause the front wheels to lift off the ground and the ATV could overturn backwards.

Carefully apply both the front and rear brakes when stopping in reverse gear.


107

04/03/09 15:30:08 31HN7610_117

Braking

Your ATV is equipped with drum brakes on both front wheels which are hydraulically-activated by operating the right brake lever. A single drum brake on the rear axle housing is mechanically-activated by depressing the brake pedal or operating the left brake lever.

Although the front and rear brakes have separate controls, all four wheels are interconnected when your ATV is in the 4WD mode. So operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause braking at both the front and rear wheels.

As a general rule, the front braking system provides about 70 percent of total stopping power.

For full braking effectiveness, use both the pedal and lever simultaneously. Using both braking systems will stop your ATV faster with greater stability.

To slow or stop, apply the brake lever and brake pedal smoothly, while downshifting to match your speed when your ATV is in the ESP mode.

Gradually increase braking as you feel the brakes slowing your speed.

The increase in engine compression from downshifting will help slow your vehicle when your ATV is in the ESP mode.

Applying the brakes too hard may cause the wheels to lock and slide, reducing control of your ATV. If this happens, release the brake controls, steer straight ahead until you regain control, then reapply the brakes more gently.

When possible, reduce your speed or complete braking before entering a turn. Avoid braking or closing the throttle quickly while turning. Either action may cause one or more wheels to slip and reduce your control of your ATV.

108


04/03/09 15:30:14 31HN7610_118

Braking

Your ability to brake in a turn and to brake hard in an emergency situation are important riding skills.

When descending a long, steep grade, use engine compression braking by downshifting (in the ESP mode), with intermittent use of both brakes.

Continuous brake application can overheat the brakes and reduce their effectiveness.

Riding with your foot resting on the brake pedal or your hands on the brake levers may overheat the brakes, reducing effectiveness.

For information on how to apply the brakes in various riding situations, see the following section, Riding Your ATV .


109

04/03/09 15:30:20 31HN7610_119

Riding Your ATV

Making Turns

Learn how to turn your ATV properly. Practice the techniques outlined in this section on level ground and at low speeds until you are confident in making turns.

Turning improperly can make the ATV to go out of control, causing a collision or overturn.

Always follow proper procedures for turning as described in this owner’s manual.

Practice turning at low speeds before attempting to turn at faster speeds.

Do not turn at excessive speeds.

110


04/03/09 15:30:27 31HN7610_120

Riding Your ATV

Lean your body to the inside of a turn and forward.

To make a turn on level ground: Steer the handlebar and lean your body toward the inside of the turn. Leaning helps balance the vehicle, and it feels more comfortable. Leaning into a turn is an important technique to master in riding an ATV.

To make a sharp turn at low speed: It helps to shift your body slightly forward on the seat, and lean inside, as you steer the handlebar. Shifting weight forward allows the rear wheels to turn easier, and it also improves front-wheel steering.

To make a turn from a full stop: Apply the throttle gradually when you turn and start up at the same time. Remember to shift your body forward to make sharp low-speed turns and whenever you turn while accelerating from a full stop.


111

04/03/09 15:30:33 31HN7610_121

Riding Your ATV

Skidding or Sliding

The terrain surface can be a major factor affecting turns. Skidding during a turn is more likely to occur on slippery surfaces, such as snow, ice, mud and loose gravel. If you skid on ice, you may lose all directional control. To avoid skidding on slippery terrain, keep your speed low and ride with caution.

Skidding or sliding improperly may cause you to lose control of this ATV. You may also regain traction unexpectedly, which may cause the

ATV to overturn.

Learn to safely control skidding by practicing at low speeds and on level, smooth terrain.

If your ATV skids sideways during a turn, steer in the direction of the skid. Avoid hard braking or accelerating until you have regained directional control.

112


04/03/09 15:30:40 31HN7610_122

Riding Your ATV

Riding Up Hills

The ATV’s ability to safely climb hills largely depends on the rider’s skill and judgment. Begin by practicing on smooth, gentle slopes. As you gain experience, you’ll learn the hazards and your own limitations.

You may then proceed to ride on more difficult terrain. However, you must be able to decide which hills or hazards might cause the ATV to overturn. Avoid excessively steep hills.

Operating on excessively steep hills can cause the vehicle to overturn more easily than operating on level surfaces or small hills.

Never operate the ATV on hills too steep for the

ATV or for your abilities.

When climbing hills, you must shift weight toward the front wheels to help keep them on the ground. To do this, shift your body slightly forward on the seat and lean forward. For greater weight shift, move your body farther forward and lean forward.

Climbing hills improperly could cause loss of control or cause the ATV to overturn.

Always follow proper procedures for climbing hills as described in this owner’s manual.


113

04/03/09 15:30:50 31HN7610_123

Riding Your ATV

Shift weight forward when climbing hills.

Always check the terrain carefully before you start up any hill.

Never climb hills with excessively slippery or loose surfaces.

To climb a hill, take a running start in an appropriate gear and speed for the conditions. Maintain a steady speed as you ascend the hill.

Never open the throttle suddenly or make sudden gear changes. The

ATV could flip over backward.

Never go over the top of any hill at high speed. An obstacle, a sharp drop, or another vehicle or person could be on the other side of the hill.

114


04/03/09 15:31:01 31HN7610_124

Riding Your ATV

Stalling the ATV and/or Rolling Backwards:

If you incorrectly estimate climbing capability or terrain conditions, the

ATV may not have enough power or traction to continue uphill. If this happen, the ATV can stall and/or roll backwards.

Stalling, rolling backwards or improperly dismounting while climbing a hill could result in the ATV overturning.

Always follow proper procedures for climbing a hill as described in this owner’s manual.

What to do if the ATV stalls or rolls backwards when climbing a hill:

If you are about to lose all forward speed:

1.

Using the front and rear brakes together, bring the ATV to a stop with the vehicle pointed straight uphill.

2.

3.

Get off the ATV while you continue holding the brakes.

Shift into neutral, set the parking brake and turn the engine off.

4.

Then assess the situation.

If the ATV starts rolling backwards before you begin braking:

1.

2.

Keep your weight uphill.

Carefully apply the front brakes first, then carefully apply the rear brake. Do not apply either brake abruptly if you are rolling backwards, or the vehicle may overturn.

If the ATV continues sliding backwards:

After you’ve applied the brakes, get off and away from the vehicle.

Remember that operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause braking at both the front and rear wheels.


115

04/03/09 15:31:10 31HN7610_125

Riding Your ATV

What to do after the ATV has stalled or rolled backwards:

If the hill is too steep or too slippery, or if you have any doubt whether you can safely walk the ATV back down the hill, leave the vehicle where it is and get help. If possible, block the wheels so the vehicle doesn’t roll backwards.

If the hill is not too steep and you have good footing, you may be able to walk the ATV back down the hill. Make sure your intended path is clear in case you lose control of the ATV.

Be sure your legs are clear of the wheels.

Body position for backing down a hill.

1.

Stand with your body facing downhill, beside the vehicle so you can reach the rear brake lever with your right hand.

2.

Be sure your legs are clear of the wheels.

Check your footing.

3.

Slowly and carefully back the ATV down the hill using the rear brake lever to control speed.

4.

If you lose control of the ATV, for your safety, get away from the vehicle.

116


04/03/09 15:31:18 31HN7610_126

Riding Your ATV

Riding Down Hills

It’s usually advisable to descend hills with the ATV pointed straight downhill. Avoid angles that would cause the vehicle to lean sharply to one side.

Going down a hill improperly could cause loss of control or cause the ATV to overturn.

Always follow proper procedures for going down hills as described in this owner’s manual.

On downhills, shift your weight back.

As you approach a downhill, stop and survey the terrain below. Never ride past the limit of your visibility. Never go down a hill at high speed.


117

04/03/09 15:31:26 31HN7610_127

Riding Your ATV

When you’ve selected a safe downhill path, shift into a lower gear, shift your weight back with your arms extended and braced against the handlebar, then go down slowly with the throttle closed.

Use mainly the rear brake to control speed. Avoid using either the front brake or rear brake hard or abruptly when riding down hills.

Remember that operating any brake control in the 4WD mode will cause braking at both the front and rear wheels.

Remember, braking effectiveness is reduced on any hill with a loose surface.

Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes

Riding on hills or slopes is different from riding on level terrain. Be careful when riding on any hill. Make sure that you practice on gentle, smooth slopes before attempting to ride on steeper or more difficult terrain.

Improperly crossing hills or turning on hills could cause loss of control or cause the ATV to overturn.

Always follow proper procedures for crossing or turning on slopes as described in this Owner’s

Manual. Avoid crossing steep hills if possible.

118


04/03/09 15:31:35 31HN7610_128

Riding Your ATV

Crossing Hills or Slopes

To maintain balance and stability when riding across a slope, you need to shift weight toward the uphill side of the vehicle. To do this, move your body off the center of the seat and lean toward the uphill side.

On a slippery or loose surface, you may also need to steer slightly uphill to maintain a straight course across the slope.

Avoid crossing hills that are excessively steep, slippery or rough.

Shift weight uphill when crossing slopes.

Making Turns on Slopes

Compared to riding on level ground, you may need to shift more weight and lean more when making turns on slopes.

Do not make turns on any slopes until you have first mastered the techniques for making turns on level terrain.


119

04/03/09 15:31:40 31HN7610_129

Riding Your ATV

Riding Over Obstacles

Before operating in a new area, check for obstacles. Watch out for bumps, rain ruts, potholes and other obstacles in the terrain. When you approach any obstacle, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop.

Never try to ride over large obstacles, such as large rocks or fallen logs.

Improperly operating over obstacles could cause loss of control or a collision and could cause the ATV to overturn.

When you go over obstacles, always follow proper procedures as described in this owner’s manual.

120


04/03/09 15:31:50 31HN7610_130

Riding Your ATV

Riding Through Water

Your ATV is designed to travel through water up to approximately 10 inches deep. Before crossing a stream, make sure the water is not too deep or flowing too fast.

The ATV tires have some ability to float.

Operating this ATV through deep or fast-flowing water may cause a loss of traction and loss of control, which could lead to an accident.

Never operate this ATV in fast-flowing water or in water deeper than that specified in this

Owner’s Manual.

1.

2.

Choose a path where both banks have gradual slopes.

Proceed through the water at a slow, steady speed.

3.

Watch out for submerged obstacles and slippery rocks.

4.

5.

Avoid getting the spark plug or air cleaner wet, as this would cause the engine to stop.

After leaving the water, always test both the front and rear brakes.

Riding through water can make the brakes less effective than normal, and may reduce stopping ability.

If necessary, apply the brakes repeatedly until they dry out and operate normally.

If the brakes don’t regain effectiveness, stop your ATV and follow the procedures on page 181 .


121

04/03/09 19:26:23 31HN7610_131

Parking

1.

2.

Look for level parking area. Make sure the ground surface is firm.

After bringing your ATV to a stop, hold the brakes while you shift into neutral.

Set the parking brake.

3.

4.

5.

Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ).

If you’re through riding for the day, turn the fuel valve OFF.

If it is necessary to start the engine when your ATV is stopped on a grade in gear, rock the vehicle back and forth to allow shifting the transmission into neutral.

The brake lights are activated by applying the parking brake. When using the parking brake, be sure to turn the ignition switch OFF to avoid discharging the battery.

Parking on a Steep Incline or a Loose or Slippery Surface

If you must park your ATV on a steep incline or loose or slippery surface, use the following procedure:

1.

2.

While holding the brakes, set the parking brake.

Turn the ignition switch OFF ( ) and release the brakes.

3.

If the ATV begins to move, either while sitting on it or after you dismount, find a better parking location.

4.

If rocks or other objects are available, you can block the wheels as shown for additional security.

122


04/03/09 15:32:12 31HN7610_132

Servicing Your Honda

To help keep your ATV in good shape, this section includes a

Maintenance Schedule for required service and step-by-step instructions for specific maintenance tasks. You’ll also find important safety precautions, information on fuels and oils, and tips for keeping your

Honda looking good.

For information about replacing fuses, see page 223 .

Bef ore You Service Your Honda

The Importance of Maintenance ........................................................

. 125

Maintenance Safety ............................................................................

. 126

Important Safety Precautions .........................................................

. 127

Maintenance Schedule .......................................................................

. 128

Maintenance Record ...........................................................................

. 132

Service Preparations

Component Locations ........................................................................

. 133

Tool Kit ..............................................................................................

. 136

Owner’s Manual Storage ....................................................................

. 137

Seat Removal .....................................................................................

. 138

(cont’d)


123

04/03/09 15:32:22 31HN7610_133


Service Procedures

Fluids & Filters

Fuel ....................................................................................................

. 139

Engine Oil & Filter .............................................................................

. 142

Gear Case Oil .....................................................................................

. 150

Differential Oil ...................................................................................

. 152

Air Cleaner .........................................................................................

. 154

Engine

Throttle ...............................................................................................

. 160

Carburetor Choke Cable & Knob .......................................................

. 162

Engine Idle Speed ..............................................................................

. 163

Spark Plug ..........................................................................................

. 164

Valves .................................................................................................

. 167

Spark Arrester ....................................................................................

. 168

Chassis

Brakes .................................................................................................

. 169

Tires ...................................................................................................

. 182

Engine Guards & Skid Plates .............................................................

. 189

Driveshaft Boots ................................................................................

. 190

Electrical

Battery ................................................................................................

. 191

Appearance Care ................................................................................

. 196

124


04/03/09 15:32:28 31HN7610_134

The Importance of Maintenance

A well-maintained ATV is essential for safe, economical, and troublefree riding. It will also help reduce air pollution. Careful pre-ride inspections and good maintenance are especially important because your

ATV is designed to be ridden over rough off-road terrain.

To help your properly care for your ATV, this section of the manual provides a Maintenance Schedule. The service intervals in this schedule are based on average riding conditions.

Improperly maintaining this ATV or failing to correct a problem before you ride can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.

Frequent servicing of the air cleaner is especially important to help you avoid a possible costly engine repair.

If your ATV overturns or is involved in a crash, be sure your Honda dealer inspects all major parts, even if you are able to make some repairs.


125

04/03/09 15:32:35 31HN7610_135

Maintenance Safety

This section includes instructions on how to perform some important maintenance tasks. If you have basic mechanical skills, you can perform many of these tasks with the tools provided with your ATV.

Other tasks that are more difficult and require special tools are best performed by professionals. Removing the wheels should normally be handled only by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Instructions are included in this manual only to assist in emergency service.

Some of the most important safety precautions follow. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

126


04/03/09 15:32:42 31HN7610_136

Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions

Make sure the engine is off before you begin any maintenance or repairs. This will help eliminate several potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust.

Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot ATV parts.

Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching.

Injury from moving parts.

Do not run the engine unless instructed to do so.

Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of a fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline. Use only non-flammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from all fuel-related parts.

Remember that your Honda dealer knows your ATV best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it. To ensure the best quality and reliability, use only new genuine Honda parts or other equivalents for repair and replacement. If you have the tools and skills required for additional maintenance jobs, you can purchase an official Honda

Service Manual (page 244 ).


127

04/03/09 15:32:49 31HN7610_137

Maintenance Schedule

The required Maintenance Schedule that follows specifies how often you should have your ATV serviced, and what things need attention. It is essential to have your ATV serviced as scheduled to maintain safe, dependable performance and proper emission control.

The service intervals in this Maintenance Schedule are based on average riding conditions. Some items will need more frequent service if you ride in unusually wet or dusty areas or at full throttle. Consult your

Honda dealer for recommendations applicable to your individual needs and use.

Some items in the Maintenance Schedule can be performed with basic mechanical skills and hand tools. Procedures for these items are provided in this manual. Other items involve more extensive procedures and may require special training, tools, and equipment. We recommend that you have your Honda dealer perform these tasks unless you have advanced mechanical skills and the required tools and equipment.

Procedures for such items in this schedule are provided in an official

Honda Service Manual available for purchase (page 244 ).

If you do not feel capable of performing a given task or need assistance, remember that your Honda dealer knows your ATV best and is fully equipped to maintain and repair it. If you decide to do your own maintenance, use only genuine Honda parts or their equivalents for repair or replacement to ensure the best quality and reliability.

128


04/03/09 15:33:00 31HN7610_138


Perform the pre-ride inspection (page 79 ) and owner maintenance on this section at each scheduled maintenance period.

Each item on the maintenance schedule requires some mechanical knowledge. Certain items (particularly those marked ＊ and ＊＊ ) may require more technical information and tools. Consult your Honda dealer.

＊

＊＊

Should be serviced by your Honda dealer, unless you have the proper tools and service data and are mechanically qualified. Refer to the official Honda Service Manual (page 244 ).

In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your Honda dealer.

Summary of Maintenance Schedule Notes & Procedures:

NOTES:

1.

2.

Service more frequently when riding in dusty areas, sand or snow.

Service more frequently after riding in very wet or muddy conditions.

3.

Replace every 2 years. Replacement requires mechanical skill.


129

04/03/09 15:33:09 31HN7610_139


Maintenance Procedures:

I: inspect and clean, adjust, lubricate, or replace, if necessary

C: clean

A: adjust

L: lubricate

R: replace

ITEMS

FREQUENCY

WHICHEVER

COMES

FIRST

NOTE mi km

HOURS

INITIAL

MAINT.

100

150

20

FUEL LINE

THROTTLE OPERATION

CARBURETOR CHOKE

AIR CLEANER

AIR CLEANER HOUSING

DRAIN TUBE

SPARK PLUG

VALVE CLEARANCE

ENGINE OIL

ENGINE OIL FILTER

ENGINE IDLE SPEED

NOTE 1

NOTE 2

I

R

R

I

REGULAR

MAINT. INTERVAL

600

1000

100

C

I

1200

2000

200

I

C

I

I

I

I

I

R

R

I

R

R

I

I

I

Refer to page

−

160

162

154

159

164

167

142

147

163


130


04/03/09 15:33:19 31HN7610_140


FREQUENCY

ITEMS

DRIVE SHAFT BOOTS

REAR FINAL GEAR

CASE OIL AND

DIFFERENTIAL OIL

BRAKE FLUID

BRAKE SHOE WEAR

BRAKE SYSTEM

SKID PLATES, ENGINE

GUARD

SUSPENSION

SPARK ARRESTER

NUTS, BOLTS,

FASTENERS

WHEELS/TIRES

STEERING SHAFT

HOLDER BEARINGS

STEERING SYSTEM

WHICHEVER

COMES

FIRST

NOTE

NOTE 3

NOTE 1 mi km

HOURS

INITIAL

MAINT.

100

150

20

I

I

I

REGULAR

MAINT. INTERVAL

600

1000

100

I

(R:EVERY

1200

2000

200

I

I

2 YEARS)

I

I

I

I

C

I

C

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Refer to page

190

150

152

−

−

− I


In the interest of safety, we recommend these items be serviced only by your Honda dealer.

169

180

169

189

−

168

−


131

04/03/09 15:33:28 31HN7610_141

Maintenance Record

Keeping an accurate maintenance record will help ensure that your ATV is properly maintained. Retain detailed receipts to verify the maintenance was performed. If the ATV is sold, these receipts should be transferred with the ATV to the new owner. Make sure whoever performs the maintenance completes this record. All scheduled maintenance, including the 100 mile (150 km) or 20 hours initial maintenance, is considered a normal owner operating cost and will be charged for by your dealer. Use the space under Notes to record anything you want to remind yourself about or mention to your dealer.

ODO or

HOUR

Date Performed

By:

Notes Miles (km) or hours

100 (150) or

20

600 (1,000) or

100

1,200 (2,000) or

200

1,800 (3,000) or

300

2,400 (4,000) or

400

3,000 (5,000) or

500

3,600 (6,000) or

600

4,200 (7,000) or

700

4,800 (8,000) or

800

132


04/03/09 15:33:33 31HN7610_142

Component Locations choke knob rear brake lever front brake fluid reservoir front brake lever fuel fill cap throttle lever


133

04/03/09 15:33:39 31HN7610_143

Component Locations storage compartment battery fuse air cleaner air cleaner housing drain tube brake pedal/lever adjusting nut engine idle speed rear brake pedal oil filler cap

134


04/03/09 15:33:44 31HN7610_144

Component Locations fuel valve spark plug dipstick oil drain plug spark arrester


135

04/03/09 15:33:55 31HN7610_145

Tool Kit compartment below the rear cargo rack.

The tools in the kit are sufficient to perform routine maintenance and simple repairs. Any extensive work requiring additional tools should be performed by your Honda dealer.

The tool kit includes the following items: standard/phillips screwdriver screwdriver handle

10 × 12 mm open end wrench

14 × 17 mm open end wrench spark plug wrench and handlebar pliers tool case

(1)

(1) tool kit

136


04/03/09 15:34:04 31HN7610_146

Owner’s Manual Storage

Your ATV provides storage for the owner’s manual so you’ll have it storage box in the storage compartment.

Be careful not to flood this area when washing your ATV.

(3)

(4) (5)

(2)

(1) owner’s manual

(2) storage compartment

(3) rear cargo rack

(6)

(4) rubber strap A

(5) rubber strap B

(6) air pressure gauge

(1)


137

04/03/09 15:34:13 31HN7610_147

Seat Removal

Refer to Saf ety Precautions on page 127 .

The seat must be removed for the air cleaner, spark plug, battery and fuse maintenance.

(3)

(2)

(5) (4)

(1)

(1) seat lock lever

(2) seat

(3) front prongs

Removal

1.

2.

Installation

1.

2.

Press down on the seat until locks.

138


(4) hooks

(5) studs

04/03/09 15:34:23 31HN7610_148

Fuel


Fuel Recommendation

type pump octane number unleaded

86 (or higher)

We recommend that you use unleaded fuel because it produces fewer engine deposits and extends the life of exhaust system components.

Your engine is designed to use any gasoline that has a pump octane number of 86 or higher. Gasoline pumps at service stations normally display the pump octane number. For information on the use of oxygenated fuels, see page 241 .

Use of lower octane gasoline can cause persistent ‘‘pinging’’ or ‘‘spark knock’’ (a loud rapping noise) which, if severe, can lead to engine damage. Light pinging experienced while operating under a heavy load, such as climbing a hill, is no cause for concern.

If pinging or spark knock occurs at a steady engine speed under normal load, change brands of gasoline. If pinging or spark knock persists, consult your Honda dealer.

Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gasoline mixture.

Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank.


139

04/03/09 15:34:34 31HN7610_149

Fuel

Fuel Capacity

Fuel tank capacity, including reserve:

3.83 US gal (14.5 )

Reserve capacity:

1.06 US gal (4.0 )

The tank should be refilled as soon as possible after switching to reserve, and the fuel valve should be returned to the ON position after refueling to avoid running out of fuel with no reserve.

Refueling Procedure


(3) (2) (4)

(1)

(1) fuel fill cap

(2) breather tube

140


(3) handlebar cover hole

(4) filler neck

04/03/09 15:34:43 31HN7610_150

Fuel

1.

2.

3.

Avoid over filling the tank. There should be no fuel in the filler neck.

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.

You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks and flame away.

Handle fuel only outdoors.

Wipe up spills immediately.

4.

After refueling, turn the fuel fill cap clockwise until it clicks.

5.

6.

If the fuel valve was set to RES, turn the fuel valve ON.

If you replace the fuel fill cap, use only a genuine Honda replacement part.


141

04/03/09 15:34:48 31HN7610_151

Engine Oil & Filter

Engine oil quality is a major factor that affects both the performance and the service life of the engine.

Using the proper oil (page 143 ) and filter, and regularly checking, adding, and changing oil will help extend your engine’s life. Even the best oil wears out. Changing oil helps get rid of dirt and deposits in the engine. Operating the engine with old or dirty oil can damage your engine. Running the engine with insufficient oil can cause serious damage to the engine and transmission.

Change the engine oil as specified in the maintenance schedule on page

130 . When running in very dusty conditions, oil changes should be performed more frequently than specified in the maintenance schedule.

142


04/03/09 15:35:05 31HN7610_152


Oil Recommendation

API classification viscosity (weight)

JASO T 903 standard suggested oil ＊

SG or higher except oils labeled as energy conserving on the circular API service label

SAE 10W-40

MA

Pro Honda GN4 or HP4 (without molybdenum additives) 4-stroke oil

(USA & Canada), or Honda 4-stroke oil

(Canada only), or an equivalent motorcycle oil.

＊ Suggested oils are equal in performance to SJ oils that are not labeled as energy conserving on the circular API service label.

Your ATV does not need oil additives. Use the recommended oil.

Do not use oils with graphite or molybdenum additives. They may adversely affect clutch operation.

Do not use API SH or higher oils displaying a circular API ‘‘energy conserving’’ service label on the container. They may affect lubrication and clutch performance.

NOT RECOMMENDED OK

Do not use non-detergent, vegetable, or castor based racing oils.

(cont’d)


143

04/03/09 15:35:13 31HN7610_153


Other viscosities shown in the following chart may be used when the average temperature in your riding area is within the indicated range.

JASO T 903 standard

The JASO T 903 standard is an index to choose engine oils for 4-stroke motorcycle engines.

(1)

(2)

(1) code number of the sales company of the oil

(2) oil classification

144


04/03/09 15:35:24 31HN7610_154


Checking & Adding Oil


Check the engine oil level each day before operating your ATV and add if needed.

Bef ore checking the engine oil level

1.

2.

Park your ATV on a firm, level surface.

Start the engine in a well-ventilated area and let it idle for 3 − 5 minutes. Stop the engine and wait 2 − 3 minutes.

3.

4.

clean.

Insert the dipstick without screwing it in, then remove the dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level should be between the upper level

LEFT SIDE

(1)

(2)

(3)

(1) dipstick

(2) upper level mark

(3) lower level mark


145

04/03/09 15:35:32 31HN7610_155


5.

the oil filler cap hole, up to the upper level mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.

6.

Reinstall the oil filler cap and dipstick.

Running the engine with an improper oil level can cause serious engine damage.

RIGHT SIDE

(4)

(4) oil filler cap

146


04/03/09 15:35:42 31HN7610_156


Changing Engine Oil & Filter


Your ATV’s oil filter has very specific performance requirements. Use a new genuine Honda oil filter specified for your model or a filter of equal quality.

Using the wrong oil f ilter may result in leaks or premature engine damage.

This procedure requires mechanical skill and professional tools such as a torque wrench and oil filter wrench, as well as a means for disposing of the drained fluid (page 210 see your Honda dealer.

). If you do not have the skills or the tools,

Drain the Engine Oil:

1.

With the ATV on level ground, remove the oil filler cap from the right side of crankcase.

Place an oil drain pan under the crankcase and remove the oil drain

UNDER ENGINE

(1)

(1) oil drain plug (cont’d)


147

04/03/09 15:35:53 31HN7610_157


Install a New Engine Oil Filter:

1.

Let the remaining oil drain out.

2.

3.

4.

with the old oil filter.

Discard the oil filter.

5.

filter to the oil filter cover.

Use only the Honda genuine oil filter or a filter of equivalent quality specified for your model. Using the wrong Honda filter or a non-

Honda filter which is not of equivalent quality may cause engine

6.

damage.

Install the oil filter cover and tighten the oil filter bolt. Make sure the oil filter bolt is tightened securely to the specified torque.

Oil filter bolt torque:

13 lbf·ft (18 N·m , 1.8 kgf·m)

Improper installation of the oil f ilter can cause serious engine damage.

RIGHT SIDE

(6)

(3) (5) (4)

(1) oil filter bolt

(2) oil filter cover

(3) oil filter

(4) spring

(2)

(1)

(5) washer

(6) O-rings

148


04/03/09 15:36:06 31HN7610_158


7.

Pour the drained oil into a suitable container and dispose of it in an approved manner (page 210 ).

Improper disposal of drained f luids is harmf ul to the environment.

Add Engine Oil:

8.

Check that the drain plug sealing washer is in good condition. If necessary, replace the sealing washer.

9.

Reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten it to the specified torque:

18 lbf·ft (25 N·m , 2.5 kgf·m)

10.

Fill the oil tank with the recommended grade oil approximately:

3.0 US qt (2.8 )

11.

12.

13.

Reinstall the oil filler cap.

Start the engine and let it idle for 3 − 5 minutes.

Stop the engine and after 2 − 3 minutes, remove the oil filler cap and dipstick.

14.

Make sure the oil is between the upper and lower level marks on the dipstick. If necessary, add more oil but do not overfill.

15.

16.

Reinstall the oil filler cap and dipstick.

Check that there are no oil leaks.

If a torque wrench is not used for installation, see your Honda dealer as soon as possible to verify proper assembly.


149

04/03/09 15:36:16 31HN7610_159

Gear Case Oil


type viscosity (weight) suggested oil

Changing Oil

hypoid gear oil

SAE 80

Honda shaft drive oil or equivalent


Changing the oil with the gear case at normal operating temperature to assure complete and rapid draining.

150


04/03/09 15:36:27 31HN7610_160

Gear Case Oil

1.

Park the ATV on level ground.

2.

3.

4.

After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new sealing washer and tighten it to the specified torque:

5.

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)

Fill the gear case with the recommended oil.

2.9 US oz (85 cm )

6.

7.

Install the oil filler cap and oil level check bolt with a new sealing

REAR (2)

(4)

(3)

(5)

(1) oil drain plug

(2) oil filler cap

(3) oil level check bolt

(4) oil level check hole

(5) sealing washer

(1)


151

04/03/09 15:36:36 31HN7610_161

Differential Oil


type viscosity (weight) suggested oil

Changing Oil

hypoid gear oil

SAE 80

Honda shaft drive oil or equivalent


Changing the oil with the differential at normal operating temperature to assure complete and rapid draining.

152


04/03/09 15:36:47 31HN7610_162

Differential Oil

1.

Park the ATV on level ground.

2.

3.

4.

After the oil has completely drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new sealing washer and tighten it to the specified torque:

5.

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)

Fill the differential with the recommended oil.

8.1 US oz (240 cm )

Make sure the oil level is at the lower edge of the oil filler inspection

6.

Install the oil filler cap.

FRONT

(3)

(1) oil drain plug

(2) oil filler cap

(4)

(1)

(2)

(3) oil filler inspection hole

(4) sealing washer


153

04/03/09 15:36:55 31HN7610_163

Air Cleaner


Proper air cleaner maintenance is very important for off-road vehicles.

A dirty, water-soaked, worn-out, or defective air cleaner will allow dirt, dust, mud, and other impurities to pass into the engine.

Service the air cleaner more frequently if you ride in unusually wet or dusty areas. Your Honda dealer can help you determine the correct service interval for your riding conditions.

Your ATV’s air cleaner has very specific performance requirements.

Use a new genuine Honda air cleaner specified for your model or an air cleaner of equal quality.

Using the wrong air cleaner may result in premature engine damage.

Proper air cleaner maintenance can prevent premature engine wear or damage, expensive repairs, low engine power, poor gas mileage, and spark plug fouling.

Improper or lack of proper air cleaner maintenance can cause poor perf ormance and premature engine wear.

154


04/03/09 15:37:03 31HN7610_164

Cleaning

1.

Air Cleaner

(2)

(1)

2.

3.

(1) seat lock lever

(2) retainer clips

(3)

(3) air cleaner housing cover


155

04/03/09 15:37:14 31HN7610_165

Air Cleaner

4.

the air cleaner housing.

5.

6.

7.

Gently wash the air cleaner in clean, non-flammable (high flash point) solvent such as kerosene − not gasoline. After cleaning, gently squeeze out the remaining solvent. Avoid twisting or wringing the air

8.

cleaner. This can tear the foam.

Inspect for tears or cracks in the foam or seams of the air cleaner.

Replace the air cleaner if it is damaged.

UNDER SEAT

(5) (4) (8) (7)

(4) screw

(5) air cleaner assembly

(6) clamp

(6)

(7) air cleaner

(8) air cleaner body

156


04/03/09 15:37:24 31HN7610_166

Air Cleaner

9.

Allow the air cleaner to dry thoroughly before applying oil. A wet air cleaner will not fully absorb the oil.

10.

Pour clean Pro Honda Foam Filter Oil or an equivalent (Canada:

Honda Foam Filter Oil or an equivalent) over the entire surface of the air cleaner. Use both hands to evenly spread the oil into the air cleaner.

Gently squeeze out any excess oil. (To keep your hands dry, place the air cleaner in a clean plastic bag before spreading the oil into the air

13.

14.

15.

16.

11.

12.

cleaner.)

Install the air cleaner on the air cleaner body.

Apply a thin coat of grease to the sealing surface of the air cleaner assembly.

Install the clamp.

Insert the air cleaner assembly into the air cleaner housing.

Fasten the screw.

Reassemble by reversing the disassembly sequence.

Install the air cleaner housing cover with the FRONT mark ( 9 ) facing forward and fit the cut out of the tab ( 10 ) at the end of the air cleaner.

UNDER SEAT

(10)

(9)

(9) FRONT mark

(10) tab


157

04/03/09 15:37:30 31HN7610_167

Air Cleaner

Dust Cover

UNDER SEAT

(1)

(2)

(1) dust cover

If the dust cover is dirty, clean it.

(2) breather joint

158


04/03/09 15:37:37 31HN7610_168

Air Cleaner

Air Cleaner Housing Drain Tube

The air cleaner housing drain tube should be serviced in accordance with the Maintenance Schedule. (Riding through water may require more frequent inspection.) If deposits can be seen in the drain tube, the tube must be cleaned before starting the vehicle.

REAR

(3)

(2)

(1)

(1) drain tube

(2) clip

(3) air cleaner housing

1.

2.

3.

Drain the deposits.

Reinstall the drain tube, securing it with the clip.


159

04/03/09 15:37:50 31HN7610_169

Throttle

Throttle Freeplay


RIGHT HANDLEBAR

( A )

(B)

1/8 − 5/16 in

(3 − 8 mm)

(2) (3) (4)

(1) throttle lever

(2) rubber sleeve

(3) throttle cable adjuster

Inspection

(1)

(4) lock nut

(A) decrease freeplay

(B) increase freeplay

Freeplay:

1/8 − 5/16 in (3 − 8 mm)

Adjustment

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Turn the adjuster to obtain the correct freeplay.

Tighten the lock nut and reinstall the sleeve.

After adjustment, check for smooth operation of the throttle lever from fully closed to fully open in all steering positions.

160


04/03/09 15:37:58 31HN7610_170

Throttle

Throttle Inspection


1.

Check that the throttle assembly is positioned properly and the securing bolts are tight.

2.

Check for smooth operation of the throttle lever from fully open to fully closed in all steering positions. If there is a problem, see your

3.

Honda dealer.

Inspect the condition of the throttle cables from the throttle lever

4.

5.

down to the carburetor. If the cable is kinked or chafed, have it replaced.

Check the cables for tension or stress in all steering positions.

Lubricate the cables with a commercially-available cable lubricant to prevent premature wear and corrosion.


161

04/03/09 15:38:05 31HN7610_171

Carburetor Choke Cable & Knob


CENTER OF HANDLEBAR

(2)

(1)

(1) choke cable (2) choke knob

1.

2.

If the cable is damaged or kinked, have it replaced by your Honda dealer.

162


04/03/09 15:38:17 31HN7610_172

Engine Idle Speed

The best way to assure proper carburetion is to see your Honda dealer for regularly scheduled servicing, including carburetor adjustment.

Remember, idle speed adjustment is not a ‘‘cure-all’’ for other problems in your engine’s fuel-delivery system. Adjusting the idle will not compensate for a fault elsewhere.

The engine must be at normal operating temperature for accurate idle speed adjustment.

For information about high altitude carburetor adjustment, see page 237 .

Idle Speed Adjustment


RIGHT SIDE

(1)

(1) throttle stop screw

1.

2.

3.

If the engine is cold, start it and warm it up with ten minutes of stopand-go riding. Stop the engine.


Connect a tachometer to the engine.

4.

Shift into neutral. Start the engine.

5.

Idle speed (in neutral):

1,400 ± 100 rpm


163

04/03/09 15:38:25 31HN7610_173

Spark Plug

Spark Plug Recommendation

standard spark plug for cold climate

(below 5°C, 41°F)

DPR8EA − 9 (NGK)

X24EPR − U9 (DENSO)

DPR7EA − 9 (NGK)

X22EPR − U9 (DENSO) or or

Use only the recommended type of spark plug in the recommended heat range.

Using spark plugs with an improper heat range can cause engine damage.

164


04/03/09 15:38:35 31HN7610_174

Spark Plug

Spark Plug Replacement & Inspection


1.

Clean any dirt from around the spark plug base.

2.

3.

spark plug wire when disconnecting the cap.

Using the spark plug wrench provided in the tool kit, remove the

4.

spark plug.

Inspect the electrodes and center porcelain for deposits, corrosion, or carbon fouling. If the corrosion or deposits are heavy, replace the plug. Clean a carbon or wet-fouled plug with a plug cleaner, if available, or a wire brush. Inspect the spark plug electrodes for wear.

insulator tip appear unusually fouled or burned, we suggest that you contact your Honda dealer.

LEFT SIDE

(1) (3)

(2)

(4)

0.03

(0.8

−

−

0.04 in

0.9 mm)

(1) spark plug cap

(2) center electrode

(3) side electrode

(4) spark plug gap


165

04/03/09 15:38:45 31HN7610_175

Spark Plug

5.

Discard the spark plug if there is apparent wear or if the insulator is cracked or chipped.

6.

adjustment is necessary, bend the side electrode carefully.

The gap should be:

7.

0.03

− 0.04 in (0.8

− 0.9 mm)

With the plug washer attached, thread the spark plug in by hand to prevent cross-threading.

Tighten the spark plug:

If the old plug is good:

1/8 turn after it seats.

If installing a new plug, tighten it twice to prevent loosening: a) First, tighten the plug:

NGK:

DENSO:

3/4


turn after it seats.

b) Then loosen the plug.

c) Next, tighten the plug again:


Improperly tightened spark plug can damage the engine. If a plug is too loose, a piston may be damaged. If a plug is too tight, the threads may be damaged.

166


04/03/09 15:38:52 31HN7610_176

Valves

Valve Inspection


Valve clearance should be:

0.006 in (0.15 mm)

Excessive clearance will cause noise. Insufficient clearance will cause loss of power and possibly damage the valves.

For those who are mechanically proficient and have the proper tools, instructions on adjusting valve clearances are given in the official

Honda Service Manual. All others should have valves adjusted by your

Honda dealer.


167

04/03/09 15:39:02 31HN7610_177

Spark Arrester


Regular servicing prevents carbon build up (which can diminish engine performance) and also complies with USDA regulations for regular maintenance to assure proper function. The spark arrester prevents random sparks from the combustion process in your engine from reaching the environment.

The use of safety glasses is recommended for this procedure.

Because of the possible fire hazard, check that there are no combustible materials in the area before purging the spark arrester.

REAR

(1)

(1) bolt

1.

Select a well-ventilated area free of combustible materials and make sure the exhaust pipe is cool.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Start the engine and rev it up approximately twenty times while momentarily creating exhaust system back pressure by blocking the end of the muffler with a shop towel.

Stop the engine and allow the exhaust pipe to cool.

Reinstall the bolt securely.

168


04/03/09 15:39:11 31HN7610_178

Brakes

The hydraulic drum brakes (front) and single mechanical drum brake

(rear) on your ATV dissipate heat generated by the friction of the brake shoes on the drums as the wheels are slowed.

As the front brake shoes wear, brake fluid level will drop. A leak in the system will also cause the level to drop.

Inspect the system before each ride to ensure there are no fluid leaks.

Periodically inspect the brake fluid level and front and rear brake shoes for wear.

If the brake lever or brake pedal freeplay does not feel within the normal range while riding, check the brake shoes for wear (page 180 ).

Worn shoes should be replaced. If the shoes are not worn beyond the recommended limit, there is probably air in the brake system. See your

Honda dealer to have the air bled from the system.

Brake Fluid Recommendation

brake fluid Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluid

The recommended brake fluid is Honda DOT 4 Brake Fluid, or any brake fluid of equal quality and performance. Use fresh brake fluid from a sealed container. Be sure to read the label before opening the sealed container. An opened container may be contaminated or may have absorbed moisture from the air.


169

04/03/09 15:39:18 31HN7610_179

Brakes

Fluid Level Inspection


RIGHT HANDLEBAR

(1)

(1) LOWER level mark

If your inspection indicates a low fluid level, have your Honda dealer add the recommended fluid.

Do not add or replace brake fluid, except in an emergency. If you do add fluid, have your Honda dealer check the system as soon as possible.

Brake f luid can damage plastic and painted surf aces. Handle with care.

170


04/03/09 15:39:24 31HN7610_180

Brakes

Wipe up spills immediately. Avoid contact with skin or eyes. In case of contact, wash thoroughly and call a doctor immediately if it contacts your eyes.

Other Inspections

Make sure there are no fluid leaks.

Check for deterioration or cracks in the hoses and fittings. If the hoses are worn or cracked, have them replaced by your Honda dealer.


171

04/03/09 15:39:31 31HN7610_181

Brakes

Front Brake Lever Freeplay & Shoe Lining Clearance

RIGHT HANDLEBAR

(1)

1 − 1 3/16 in

(25 − 30 mm)

(1) front brake lever

1.

Measure the distance the brake lever moves before the brakes start to should be:

1 − 1 3/16 in (25 − 30 mm)

172


04/03/09 15:39:41 31HN7610_182

Brakes

2.

3.

Standard:

Service Limit:

0.16 in (4.0 mm)

0.04 in (1.0 mm)

If either lining is worn beyond the limit, both brake shoes must be replaced by your Honda dealer.

4.

If the brake lever freeplay and the brake shoe lining thickness are within the recommended limits, reinstall the inspection hole plugs,

5.

seating them into the inspection hole as shown.

If the brake lever freeplay is excessive but the linings are not worn beyond the service limit, adjust the brake lining clearance.

(4)

(5)

(3)

(2)

(2)

(2) inspection hole plug

(3) lining thickness

(4) front brake drum

(5) front wheel rim


173

04/03/09 15:39:49 31HN7610_183

Brakes

To adjust the brake lining clearance:

1.

Squeeze the brake lever firmly two or three times, then release it.

2.

Raise the front and rear wheels off the ground by placing a support block under the vehicle.

3.

Beginning with either the left or right front wheel, remove the inspection hole plug and line up the hole with one of the brake adjusters.

4.

brake locks.

Take care not to damage the aluminum wheel.

(1)

(1) brake shoe adjuster

174


04/03/09 15:39:58 31HN7610_184

Brakes

5.

Back the adjuster off three clicks, then squeeze the brake lever several times. Spin the wheel manually to make sure the brake does not drag.

6.

Line up the inspection hole with the second adjuster and repeat steps

7.

3 through 5 .

Reinstall the inspection hole plug, seating it into the inspection hole as shown.

8.

Follow steps 3 through 7 to adjust the other front brake.

9.

Recheck the brake lever freeplay. If freeplay is still excessive after adjusting the brake lining clearance, there is probably air in the brake system and it must be bled out. See your Honda dealer for this service.


175

04/03/09 15:40:06 31HN7610_185

Brakes

Rear Brake Pedal Freeplay

RIGHT SIDE

(1)

9/16

(15 −

− 13/16 in

20 mm)

(1) rear brake pedal

Inspection starts to take hold. Freeplay, measurement at the tip of the end of the pedal, should be:

9/16 − 13/16 in (15 − 20 mm)

If necessary, adjust to the specified range.

176


04/03/09 15:40:13 31HN7610_186

Brakes

Adjustment

RIGHT REAR

(3)

(2)

(2) brake pedal adjusting nut

(3) brake arm pin rod at the rear of the frame. Make sure the cutout on the adjusting nut is


177

04/03/09 15:40:21 31HN7610_187

Brakes

Rear Brake Lever Freeplay

LEFT HANDLEBAR

(1)

9/16

(15 −

− 13/16 in

20 mm)

(1) rear brake lever

Inspection starts to take hold. Freeplay, measurement at the tip of the end of the brake lever, should be:

9/16 − 13/16 in (15 − 20 mm)

If necessary, adjust to the specified range.

178


04/03/09 15:40:30 31HN7610_188

Brakes

Adjustment

RIGHT REAR

(3)

(2)

(2) brake lever adjusting nut

(3) brake arm pin rod at the rear of the frame. Make sure the cutout on the adjusting nut is

Other Inspection

Check that the brake lever and brake pedal assemblies are positioned properly and the securing bolts are tight.

Make sure that the brake cables, brake arm, spring, and fasteners are in good condition.


179

04/03/09 15:40:38 31HN7610_189

Brakes

Brake Shoe Wear


The rear brake is equipped with an external brake wear indicator that lets you check brake wear without disassembly. Application of the brake control causes the arrow on the brake arm to move toward a reference mark on the brake panel.

RIGHT REAR

(2)

(3)

(1) arrow

(2) brake arm

(1)

(3) reference mark

1.

2.

Replace the brake shoe if the arrow aligns with the reference mark replacement is necessary, see your Honda dealer.

180


04/03/09 15:40:50 31HN7610_190

Draining Water from Brakes


Brakes

(1)

(2)

(1) front brake inspection hole plug

(2) rear brake drain bolt

1.

Make sure the engine is off and the parking brake is set.

2.

3.

brake cover.

If any water drains, the brake seals must be replaced by your Honda dealer as soon as possible.


181

04/03/09 15:40:56 31HN7610_191

Tires

To safely operate your ATV, your tires must be the proper type and size, in good condition with adequate tread, and correctly inflated.

Using tires that are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Follow all instructions in this owner’s manual regarding tire inflation and maintenance.

This ATV is equipped with low pressure tubeless tires. Although the tires are designed specifically for off-road use, they are not immune to punctures. Always select your riding area with care.

The following pages give detailed information on how and when to check your air pressure, how to inspect your tires for wear and damage, and our recommendations for tire repair and replacement.

182


04/03/09 15:41:02 31HN7610_192

Tires

Air Pressure


Properly inflated tires provide the best combination of handling, tread life, and riding comfort. Generally, underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Overinflated tires make your ATV ride more harshly, are more prone to damage from surface hazards, and wear unevenly.

Make sure the valve stem caps are secure. If necessary, install a new cap.


183

04/03/09 15:41:14 31HN7610_193

Tires

Always check air pressure when your tires are ‘‘cold.’’ If you check air pressure when your tires are ‘‘warm’’ − even if your ATV has only been ridden for a few miles − the readings will be higher. If you let air out of warm tires to match the recommended cold tire pressures, the tires will be underinflated. Be sure to check tire pressure at the riding site, since changes in altitude can affect air pressure.

The recommended ‘‘cold’’ tire pressures are:

RECOMMENDED

PRESSURE

MAXIMUM

PRESSURE

MINIMUM

PRESSURE

RECOMMENDED

PRESSURE

FRONT REAR

3.6 psi (25 kPa ,

0.25 kgf/cm )

3.6 psi (25 kPa ,

0.25 kgf/cm )

4.0 psi (28 kPa ,

0.28 kgf/cm )

4.0 psi (28 kPa ,

0.28 kgf/cm )

3.2 psi (22 kPa ,

0.22 kgf/cm )

3.2 psi (22 kPa ,

0.22 kgf/cm )

3.6 psi (25 kPa ,

0.25 kgf/cm )

3.6 psi (25 kPa ,

0.25 kgf/cm )

184


04/03/09 15:41:24 31HN7610_194

Tires

A manually operated tire pump should be used rather than the high pressure system found in service stations. This will minimize the possibility of tire damage from overinflation. If you use a high pressure system at a service station, add air in small amounts and check the pressure increase frequently to prevent possible tire damage from overinflation.

Operating this ATV with improper tires, or with uneven tire pressure may cause loss of control, and you could be seriously injured or killed.

Always use the size and type tires specified in this owner’s manual for this vehicle.

Always maintain proper tire pressure as described in this owner’s manual.

Inspection


Whenever you check the tire pressures, you should also look for:

Bumps or bulges in the side of the tire or the tread. Replace any tire that has a bump or bulge.

Cuts, slits, or cracks in the tires. Replace the tire if you can see fabric or cord.

Nails or other foreign objects embedded in the side of the tire or tread.

Excessive tread wear.


185

04/03/09 15:41:35 31HN7610_195

Tires

Also, if you hit a pothole or other hard object while riding, stop as soon as you safely can and carefully inspect the tires for damage.

Tread Wear

(1)

3/16 in

(4 mm)

(2)

NEW

Replace

(3)

(1) groove depth

(2) wear indicator

(3) wear indicator location mark

For best performance, you should replace a tire before the tread depth at the center reaches the following limits: front rear

3/16 in (4 mm)

3/16 in (4 mm)

186


04/03/09 15:41:42 31HN7610_196

Tires

Tire Repair


A tire that is repaired, either temporarily or permanently, will have lower speed and performance limits than a new or undamaged tire.

A temporary repair can sometimes be made in an emergency situation.

However, since a temporary repair may not hold, you must ride very slowly, preferably without any cargo, and have the tire replaced or permanently repaired as soon as possible. (For more information on temporary repairs, see If You Have a Flat Tire, page 219 .)

A permanent repair, such as an internal plug patch, can be made if a tire has only a small puncture in the tread area. However you may not be able to safely carry as much weight. If you choose to have a tire repaired, be sure the repair work is performed by a professional.

If you have a tire professionally repaired at a non-Honda facility, we recommend that you have the work checked by your Honda dealer.


187

04/03/09 15:41:55 31HN7610_197

Tires

Tire Replacement


The tires that came on your ATV were designed to match the performance capabilities of your ATV and provide the best combination of handling, braking, and comfort.

It is best to replace all four tires, however if that is not possible, you must replace the tires in pairs (front or rear) with tires of the same size and type as the originals. Never replace just one tire.

Installing improper tires on your ATV can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this owner’s manual.

The recommended tires for your ATV are: front rear

AT24 × 8-12 ★★

DIRT HOOKS 17 BRIDGESTONE

AT24 × 10-11 ★★

DIRT HOOKS 14 BRIDGESTONE

When you replace a tire, remember:

Have the tire replaced by your Honda dealer if possible.

If you have a tire professionally replaced at a non-Honda facility, we recommended that you have the work checked by your Honda dealer.

188


04/03/09 15:42:02 31HN7610_198

Engine Guards & Skid Plates


(1) engine guards

(1)

(2)

(2) skid plates guard and plates for cracks, damage or looseness at intervals shown in the Maintenance Schedule.

Have the engine guard and skid plates replaced if they are cracked or damaged. If the guard and plate bolts are loose, tighten them securely.


189

04/03/09 15:42:07 31HN7610_199

Driveshaft Boots


FRONT

(1) driveshaft boots

(1) necessary, have your Honda dealer replace them.

190


04/03/09 15:42:14 31HN7610_200

Battery

Your ATV has a maintenance-free type battery. You do not have to check the battery electrolyte level or add distilled water as you would with a conventional-type battery.

Your battery is a maintenance-f ree type and can be permanently damaged if the cap strip is removed.

Electrical accessories use current from the battery –– even when the ignition is OFF. Limited operation also allows the battery to discharge.

If you have electrical accessories on your ATV –– or do not ride frequently, we recommend that you charge the battery frequently (see

Battery Charging, page 195 ).

If you do not expect to ride your ATV for at least two weeks, we recommend you remove the battery –– or at least disconnect the battery cables (negative cable first).

If you plan to store your ATV, see Battery Storage, page 192 .

If your battery seems weak and/or is leaking electrolyte (causing slow starting or other electrical problems), see your Honda dealer.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds.

Wash your hands after handling.


191

04/03/09 15:42:22 31HN7610_201

Battery

Battery Storage


If you plan to store your ATV, we recommend you remove the battery and store it where it can be charged at least every 30 days to maintain its service life.

If you do not remove the battery, we recommend disconnecting the battery cables (negative cable first).

You will get the best storage results from removing the battery and slow

(trickle) charging it every 30 days (see Battery Charging, page 195 ).

Before you remove the battery, be sure to read all the information that follows, as well as the information on the battery label.

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

192


04/03/09 15:42:30 31HN7610_202

The battery is located in a compartment under the seat.

UNDER SEAT

(1)

Battery

(1) rear fender lid

1.

Make sure the ignition switch is OFF ( ).

2.

3.

Remove the seat (page 138 ).


193

04/03/09 15:42:40 31HN7610_203

Battery

(5)

(3)

(4)

(2)

(2) rubber band

(3) negative ( − ) terminal lead

(4) battery

(5) positive ( ＋ ) terminal lead

4.

5.

6.

Disconnect the negative ( − 3 4 first, then disconnect the positive ( ＋ 5

Remove the battery.

7.

Charge the battery (see following section), unless you have been riding regularly.

8.

Store your battery in an easy-to-reach location off the floor, in an area protected from freezing temperature and direct sunlight.

9.

Clean the battery box after removing the battery for storage. Dry the battery box and, if paint is missing, re-paint the area.

10.

Slow charge the battery (see following section) once every 30 days.

Installation

1.

2.

Install in the reverse order of removal.

Check all bolts and other fasteners are secure.

194


04/03/09 15:42:48 31HN7610_204

Battery Charging


(1)

Battery

(1) ‘‘trickle’’ charger

Be sure to read the information that came with your battery charger and follow the instructions on the battery. Improper charging may damage the battery.

units can be left connected for long periods without risking damage to the battery. However, do not intentionally leave the charger connected longer than the time period recommended in the charger’s instructions.

Avoid using an automotive-type battery charger. An automotive charger can overheat an ATV battery and cause premature damage.


195

04/03/09 15:42:59 31HN7610_205

Appearance Care

Frequent cleaning and polishing will keep your Honda looking newer longer.

Frequent cleaning also identifies you as an owner who values his ATV.

A clean ATV is also easier to inspect and service.

General Recommendations


To clean your ATV, you may use:

− water

− a mild, neutral detergent and water

− a mild spray and wipe cleaner/polisher

− a mild spray and rinse cleaner/degreaser and water

Avoid products that contain harsh detergents or chemical solvents that could damage the metal, paint, and plastic on your ATV.

If your ATV is still warm from recent operation, give the engine and exhaust system time to cool off.

Park in a shady area. Washing your ATV in bright sunlight may cause the finish to fade because water droplets intensify the sun’s brightness.

Spotting is also more likely because surface water can dry before you have time to wipe it off.

Clean your ATV regularly to protect surface finishes.

We recommend the use of a garden hose to wash your ATV. High pressure washers (like those at coin-operated car washers) can damage certain parts of your ATV.

High pressure water (or air) can damage certain parts of your ATV.

After cleaning, inspect for damage, wear, and leaks (fuel, oil, coolant and brake fluid).

196


04/03/09 15:43:11 31HN7610_206

Appearance Care

Washing Your ATV with a Mild Detergent


1.

2.

Rinse your ATV thoroughly with cool water to remove loose dirt.

Fill a bucket with cool water. Mix in a mild, neutral detergent, such as dish washing liquid or a product made especially for washing motorcycles or automobiles.

3.

Wash your ATV with a sponge or soft towel. As you wash, check for heavy grime. If necessary, use a mild cleaner/degreaser to remove the

4.

grime.

After washing, rinse your ATV thoroughly with plenty of clean water

5.

to remove any residue. Detergent residue can corrode alloy parts.

Dry your ATV with a chamois or a soft towel. Leaving water on the surface to air dry can cause dulling and water spots. As you dry,

6.

inspect for chips and scratches.

Start the engine and let it idle for several minutes. The engine heat

7.

will help dry moist areas.

As a precaution, ride your ATV at a slow speed and apply the brakes several times. This will help dry the brakes and restore normal braking performance.

If the inside of the headlight lens appears clouded immediately after washing, it should clear after a few minutes of riding.


197

04/03/09 15:43:24 31HN7610_207

Appearance Care

Spray Cleaning Your ATV


Avoid using spray cleaner products on the tires or suspension components.

Suggestions for using spray cleaner(s) follow:

ATV condition

Dust and fingerprint smudges.

Light road grimes.

Heavy grime. Oil leaks.

Brake dust.

Dull, corroded chrome or aluminum.

Recommended Cleaning

Apply a spray cleaner/polish and wipe paint, chrome, glass, and clear plastic.

Spray any difficult-to-reach or very dirty areas with a spray cleaner/ degreaser.

Rinse and dry.

Apply a spray cleaner/polish and wipe with a non-abrasive cloth.

Use a spray cleaner/degreaser. If necessary, rub with a sponge.

Rinse and dry.

Apply a spray cleaner/polish and wipe with a non-abrasive cloth.

Apply a high quality chrome/ aluminum polish and wipe with a non-abrasive cloth.

198


04/03/09 15:43:30 31HN7610_208

Appearance Care

Finishing Touches


After washing your ATV, consider using a commercially-available spray cleaner/polish or quality liquid or paste wax to finish the job. Use only a non-abrasive polish or wax made specifically for motorcycles or automobiles. Apply the polish or wax according to the instructions on the container.

If a surface on your ATV is chipped or scratched, your Honda dealer has touch-up paint to match your ATV’s color. Be sure to use your

ATV’s color code (page 231 ) when you buy touch-up paint.

If the frame has a chip that exposes the metal, first apply primer (to prevent corrosion) and then apply the touch-up paint. Several thin layers of touch-up paint are better than one thick coat.


199

04/03/09 15:43:32 31HN7610_209

200


04/03/09 15:43:37 31HN7610_210

Tips

Here’s helpful advice on how to prepare for an off-road adventure, how to transport and store your Honda, and how to be an environmentally responsible ATV owner.

Preparing for a Ride ...........................................................................

. 202

What to Take to the Riding Area .....................................................

. 202

What to Take on the Trail ................................................................

. 203

Transporting Your Honda ..................................................................

. 204

Storing Your Honda ...........................................................................

. 206

You & the Environment .....................................................................

. 210

Tips

201

04/03/09 15:43:46 31HN7610_211

Preparing for a Ride

A safe and enjoyable ride begins with good planning and preparation.

Always ride with at least one other person in case you have trouble, and let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Before riding in an unfamiliar area, find out in advance if you need special permits, get maps so you can study the terrain, and talk to other riders who know the area. The Forest Service and the Bureau of Land

Management (USA only), the Ministry of Natural Resources (Canada only), riding clubs, and off-road magazines are good sources of information.

What to Take to the Riding Area

Along with your ATV and riding gear, you should take along some tools and supplies in case you have a problem. For some of the difficulties you might encounter, see Taking Care of the Unexpected, on page 211 .

which begins

We recommend that you always take water, food, a first aid kit, and your owner’s manual. Other items you should consider loading on your truck or trailer include: a tool kit tire repair supplies and tools, and tires extra parts, control levers, cables, and spark plugs wire, duct tape, and rope extra gasoline

For safety, all refueling should be done at a gas station on the way to the riding area or at your base camp.

202

Tips

04/03/09 15:43:52 31HN7610_212

Preparing for a Ride

What to Take on the Trail

What you take with you during a ride depends on the kind of terrain, how long you expect to ride, how far you might go from your base camp or help, and how experienced you or your companions are in making repairs.

If you decide to take some tools, spare parts, or other supplies on the trail, be sure you can carry them safely and know how to use them. Also, be sure to follow the loading guidelines and weight limit (page 83 ).

Tips

203

04/03/10 15:01:16 31HN7610_213

Transporting Your Honda

Do not tow your ATV behind a car or other vehicle.

When you transport your ATV, we recommend that you carry the vehicle in its normal operating position (on all four wheels). Do not incline the vehicle upright on its rear end. This can damage the vehicle, and leaking gasoline could be a hazard.

Follow these procedures:

1.

2.

Set the parking brake.

Turn the fuel valve OFF.

204

Tips

04/03/09 15:44:08 31HN7610_214

Transporting Your Honda

3.

Secure the vehicle with ‘‘tie-down straps’’ in the areas shown.

Suitable ‘‘tie-down straps’’ are available from your Honda dealer.

4.

Ordinary rope is not recommended because it can stretch under load.

Using tie-down straps in any other areas can damage your ATV.

Rock the vehicle back and forth to make sure the ‘‘tie-down straps’’ are tight and the vehicle is secure.

(1)

(2)

(1) front cargo rack

(2) rear cargo rack

(3)

(3) trailer hitch

Tips

205

04/03/09 15:44:13 31HN7610_215

Storing Your Honda

If you won’t be riding for an extended period, such as during the winter, thoroughly inspect your ATV and correct any problem before storing it.

That way, needed repairs won’t be forgotten and it will be easier to get your ATV running again.

For more information about storage, refer to the Honda Motorcycle

Winter Storage Guide, available from your Honda dealer (USA only).

We suggest you perform the following procedures to keep your ATV in top condition. These storage procedures will reduce the deterioration that can occur during storage.

206

Tips

04/03/09 15:44:23 31HN7610_216


Preparation for Storage


This procedure requires a means for draining and disposing of drained fuel (page 210 ).

1.

2.

3.

4.

Change the engine oil and filter (page 147 ).

Fill the fuel tank. Make sure the fuel fill cap is properly installed.

Check that the fuel valve is OFF.

Drain the carburetor into an approved gasoline container and dispose of it in an approved manner (page 210 ).

If storage will last longer than one month, carburetor draining is important, to assure proper performance after storage.

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive.

You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel.

Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks and flame away.

Handle fuel only outdoors.

Wipe up spills immediately.

(cont’d)

Tips

207

04/03/09 15:44:34 31HN7610_217


5.

To prevent rusting in the cylinders, perform the following:

Remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug.

Remove the spark plug.

Do not connect the spark plug to the spark plug cap.

Pour a tablespoon (15 − 20 cc) of clean engine oil into cylinder and cover the spark plug hole with a piece of cloth.

With the engine stop switch in the OFF ( ) position, press the

6.

start button several times to crank the engine and distribute the oil.

Reinstall the spark plug and spark plug cap.

Remove the battery and charge it fully. Store it in an area protected from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Slow charge the battery (page 195 ) once a month.

The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation.

A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

Wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled mechanic do the battery maintenance.

7.

Wash and dry your ATV. Wax all painted surfaces.

8.

Inflate the tires to their recommended pressures (page 183 ).

9.

10.

11.

Store your ATV in an unheated area, free of dampness, away from sunlight, with a minimum of daily temperature variation.

Place your ATV on blocks to lift both tires off the floor.

Cover your ATV with a porous material. Avoid using plastic or similar non-breathing, coated materials that restrict air flow and allow heat and moisture to accumulate.

208

Tips

04/03/09 15:44:42 31HN7610_218


Removal from Storage


1.

Uncover and clean your ATV.

2.

If your ATV has been stored for more than four months − change

3.

the engine oil (page 147 ).

If your ATV has been stored for more than two months − ask your

4.

5.

Honda dealer to drain and replace the fuel.

Charge the battery (page 195 ) as required. Install the battery.

Perform a pre-ride inspection (page low speeds.

79 ), then test-ride your ATV at

Tips

209

04/03/09 15:44:51 31HN7610_219

You & the Environment

Owning and riding an ATV can be enjoyable, but you must do your part to protect nature. When you show respect for the land, wildlife, and other people, you also help preserve the sport of off-road riding.

Following are tips on how you can be an environmentally-responsible

ATV owner.

Tread Lightly.

Stay on existing roads and trails, avoid surfaces that are easily damaged, and ride only in areas approved for off-road vehicles.

Keep the Noise Down.

Loud vehicles can be offensive. Ride as quietly as possible, don’t remove your spark arrester, and don’t modify the muffler or any other part of your air intake and exhaust systems. Such modifications not only increase noise, they also reduce engine performance and may be illegal.

Choose Sensible Cleaners.

Use a biodegradable detergent when you wash your ATV. Avoid aerosol spray cleaners that contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which damage the atmosphere’s protective ozone layer. Don’t throw cleaning solvents away; see the following guidelines for proper disposal.

Recycle Wastes.

It’s illegal and thoughtless to put used engine oil in the trash, down a drain, or on the ground. Used oil, gasoline, and cleaning solvents contain poisons that can hurt refuse workers and contaminate our drinking water, lakes, rivers, and oceans. Before changing your oil, make sure you have the proper containers. Put oil and other toxic wastes in separate sealed containers and take them to a recycling center. Call your local or state office of public works or environmental services to find a recycling center in your area, and to get instructions on how to dispose of non-recyclable wastes.

210

Tips

04/03/09 15:44:56 31HN7610_220

Taking Care of the Unexpected

With all the challenges you can encounter off-road, there’s a chance that sometime something may go wrong. This section gives practical advice to help you deal with a wide range of problems. Take time to read this section before you ride. Also review the tips in Preparing f or a Ride

(page 202 ).

General Guidelines .............................................................................

. 212

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start ..................................................

. 214

If the Transmission Is Not Functioning Properly ...............................

. 217

If the Battery Is Dead .........................................................................

. 218

If You Have a Flat Tire .....................................................................

. 219

If the Oil High Temperature Indicator Lights ....................................

. 222

If a Fuse Blows ..................................................................................

. 223

If You Crash .......................................................................................

. 226

If You Lose Your Key .......................................................................

. 227

If a Component Fails ..........................................................................

. 228


211

04/03/09 15:45:04 31HN7610_221


General Guidelines

Keeping your ATV well-maintained is the best way to reduce the possibility of having a problem while riding. However, problems can arise even with well-maintained machines.

Remember to take along your owner’s manual, the tool kit that came with your ATV, and any other items (such as tire repair supplies and additional tools) that might help you solve a problem on your own.

If something goes wrong during a ride, the first thing to do is stop as soon as you safely can. Do not continue riding if you have a flat tire, or you hear an unusual noise, or your ATV just doesn’t feel right. If you continue riding, you could cause more damage and endanger your own safety.

After a stop, take time to assess the situation. Carefully inspect your

ATV to identify the problem, then consider your options before you decide what to do.

If a problem is relatively minor and you have the tools, supplies, and skills to make a permanent repair, you may be able to fix it on the trail and continue riding. Or, you may be able to make a temporary repair that allows you to slowly ride back to your base where you can make a permanent repair or get help.

When a problem is more serious − or you don’t have the tools, supplies, experience, or time to deal with it − you need to choose the safest way to get yourself and your ATV back to base. For example, if you are close enough, you (or you and another person) might be able to push it back.

212


04/03/09 15:45:12 31HN7610_222


Should you ever have a problem while riding, please follow these guidelines:

Always put personal safety first.

Take time to assess the situation and your options before deciding what to do.

If the problem is relatively minor and you have the tools, supplies, and skills to make a temporary repair, be sure to have permanent repairs made as soon as possible.

Do not continue riding if you are hurt or your ATV is not in safe riding condition.

Additional recommendations for specific problems follow.


213

04/03/09 15:45:17 31HN7610_223

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start

Proper operation and maintenance can prevent starting and engine performance problems. In many cases, the cause of the problem may be a simple operational oversight.

If you have a problem starting the engine − or experience poor engine performance − the following information may help you. If you can’t correct the problem, see your Honda dealer.

If your ATV won’t start, listen as you press the start button. If you don’t hear the starter motor turning, refer to the Starter motor doesn’t operate symptom. If you can hear the starter motor working normally, refer to the Starter motor works, but the engine won’t start symptom.

214


04/03/09 15:45:40 31HN7610_224


SYMPTOM: Starter motor doesn’t operate.

POSSIBLE CAUSE ignition switch OFF

WHAT TO DO

Turn the ignition switch ON.

Turn the engine stop switch to RUN.

engine stop switch

OFF transmission not in neutral blown fuse

Shift into neutral.

battery lead loose

Replace with a new fuse of the same rating (page 223 ).

Tighten the battery lead.

Charge the battery (page 195 ).

If charging doesn’t help, see your

Honda dealer.

faulty starter motor If all possible causes are negative, the starter motor may be faulty. See your Honda dealer.

SYMPTOM: Starter motor works, but the engine won’t start.

POSSIBLE CAUSE out of fuel flooded engine loose or

WHAT TO DO

Fill the fuel tank.

See

F looded Engine

(page 97 ).

Install the spark plug cap securely. If unconnected spark plug cap loose battery cables the engine still won’t start, see your

Honda dealer.

Tighten the battery terminal bolts.

weak battery Charge the battery (page 195 ). If charging doesn’t help, see your

Honda dealer.


215

04/03/09 15:45:57 31HN7610_225


SYMPTOM: Engine starts, but runs poorly.

POSSIBLE CAUSE idles roughly, too fast, stalls

WHAT TO DO

Check engine idle adjustment (page

163 ). If the problem persists, see your Honda dealer.

Ask your Honda dealer to modify the poor engine performance at altitudes above

3,000 feet.

oil high temperature carburetion with a high altitude jet.

Refer to

High Altitude Car bur etor

Adjustment,

page 237 .

Check the oil high temperature indicator. Refer to

If the Oil High

T emper atur e Indicator Lights,

page 222 .

runs erratically, misfires blubbers (rich fuel mixture) sooty exhaust (rich fuel mixture) detonates or pings under load

See your Honda dealer.



afterfires (backfires) pre-ignition (runs on after ignition switched OFF)

If applicable, switch to the recommended octane gasoline

(page 139 ) or change your brand of gasoline. If the problem persists, see your Honda dealer.



216


04/03/09 15:46:08 31HN7610_226

If the Transmission Is Not

Functioning Properly

Manual Shift (ESP) Mode:

If one or both shift switches do not function, stop riding your ATV in the ESP mode. Switch to riding in the automatic shift mode.

Have your ATV inspected and repaired by your Honda dealer.

Automatic Shift (Auto) Mode:

When the automatic transmission is not shifting properly, the gear position indicator will show ‘‘- -’’ and blink.

See your Honda dealer to check and restore the automatic transmission.

If the gear position indicator shows ‘‘- -’’ and blinks while riding, perform the following:

1.

2.

Stop the ATV.

Turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘OFF’’ ( ) position.

3.

After the engine stops, turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘ON’’ ( ) position.

4.

Check the gear position indicator.

When the ‘‘- -’’ is blinking on the gear position indicator:

Restart the engine; drive the vehicle to a location where it can be loaded and transported to a Honda dealer.

When the display on the gear position indicator returns to normal:

You may drive the vehicle as usual after restarting the engine.

However, we urge you to have your ATV inspected by your Honda dealer.


217

04/03/09 15:46:14 31HN7610_227

If the Battery Is Dead

If the Battery is Dead

Your ATV will operate even if the battery is dead, as long as the engine is running. If the engine is not running, it may be started using the recoil starter. See your Honda dealer to have the battery recharged or replaced.

1.

2.

Shift the shift lever in Neutral (N) position.

Apply the parking brake.

3.

Turn the ignition switch to the ‘‘ON’’ ( ) position.

4.

Use the recoil starter (page 99 ) to start the engine.

218


04/03/09 15:46:23 31HN7610_228

If You Have a Flat Tire

How you handle a flat tire on the trail depends on how serious the tire damage is, and what tools and supplies you have with you.

If you have a slow leak or a minor puncture, use the plug method to make a temporary repair. (The plug method is applied from the outside of the tire and is the same as that for conventional tubeless tires.)

A plug-type repair kit, available at most auto parts stores or service stations, provides a plug, an installation tool, tire cement, and an instruction sheet. Follow the instructions provided with the repair kit to make a temporary repair.

As soon as possible, have the tire permanently repaired by your Honda dealer. Any tire that cannot be repaired should be replaced.

Whenever the ATV is to be operated far from service facilities or available transportation, we recommend that you carry a tire pump and a repair kit with the vehicle.

If the leak is more serious, or a temporary repair doesn’t hold, the tire must be replaced. The tire will also need to be replaced if it is damaged

(page 185 ). Replacing a tire involves removing and re-installing the wheel (page 220 ).

If you are unable to repair a flat tire on the trail, you will need to send for help. We strongly recommend that you do not try to ride with a flat tire. The ATV will be hard to handle, and if the tire comes off the rim, it may lock up the wheel and cause you to crash.


219

04/03/09 15:46:32 31HN7610_229


Emergency Wheel Removal/Installation


(1)

(1)

(1) wheel nuts

(2)

(2) wheel rim

Removal

1.


2.

Raise the front (or rear) wheels off the ground and place a support block under the vehicle.

3.

4.

Remove the wheel.

220


04/03/09 15:46:40 31HN7610_230


Installation

1.

Position the wheel.

2.

3.

Position the wheel nuts.

Tighten the wheel nuts in a crisscross (rather than a circular) pattern to the specified torque:

47 lbf•ft (64 N•m, 6.5 kgf•m)

If a torque wrench was not used for installation, see your Honda dealer as soon as possible to verify proper assembly. Improper assembly may lead to loss of braking capability.


221

04/03/09 15:46:48 31HN7610_231

If the Oil High Temperature

Indicator Lights

Normally, the oil high temperature indicator will only light momentarily when you turn the ignition ON ( ). Occasionally, it may flicker at or near idling speed.

Oil high temperature may be caused by restriction of air flow over the engine (such as mud caked on the cooling fin), extended idling, an oil leak, a low oil level, or extended operation under adverse conditions.

If the indicator comes on while you’re riding, don’t ignore it. Pull safely to a stop. Stop the engine as soon as it’s safe to do so, and let it cool.

Continuing to ride with oil high temperature can adversely af f ect the service lif e of the engine.

Check for any restriction of air flow over the engine.

Check for an oil leak.

Check the oil level. If necessary, add the recommended oil (page 143 ) to the upper level mark. If you must leave your ATV to get oil, secure it as much as possible.

Start the engine, and check that the oil high temperature indicator goes off.

If the indicator goes off − resume riding. If there is a leak − do not ride the ATV until the leak is repaired by Honda dealer.

222


04/03/09 15:46:58 31HN7610_232

If a Fuse Blows

All of the electrical circuits on your ATV have fuses to protect them from damage caused by excess current flow (short circuit or overload).

If something electrical on your ATV stops working, the first thing you

Check all the fuses before looking elsewhere for another possible cause of the problem. Replace any blown fuses and check component operation.

(1)

(1) blown fuse

The main fuse and the circuit fuses are located in the battery compartment.

Recommended Fuses main fuse main fuse

(control motor fuse) other fuse

30 A

30 A

15 A × 2, 10 A × 2


223

04/03/09 15:47:07 31HN7610_233

If a Fuse Blows

Main Fuse Access

1.

2.

3.

To prevent an accidental short circuit, turn the ignition switch OFF

( ) before checking or replacing the fuses.

Remove the seat (page 138 ).

Remove the rear fender lid (page 193 ).

4.

UNDER SEAT

(4)

(5) (3) (2)

(2) main fuse

(3) main fuse

(control motor fuse)

5.

Pull the main fuse out.

(4) fuse box cover

(5) spare main fuse

224


04/03/09 15:47:16 31HN7610_234

Circuit Fuse Access

(6)

If a Fuse Blows

(7)

(6) sub fuses

1.

retaining clips.

(7) spare fuses or lower.

2.

3.

4.

Install the fuse box cover.

Install the rear fender lid.

Install the seat.

If you do not have a replacement fuse with the proper rating for the circuit, install one with a lower rating.

Replacing a f use with one that has a higher rating greatly increases the chance of damage to the electrical system.


225

04/03/09 15:47:22 31HN7610_235

If You Crash

Personal safety is your first priority after an accident. If you or anyone else has been injured, take time to assess the severity of the injuries and whether it is safe to continue riding. If you cannot ride safely, send someone for help. Do not ride if you will risk further injury.

If you decide you are capable of riding safely, carefully inspect your

ATV for damage and determine if it is safe to ride. Check the tightness of critical nuts and bolts securing such parts as the handlebar, control levers, brakes, and wheels.

If there is minor damage, or you are unsure about possible damage but decide to try riding the ATV back to your base, ride slowly and cautiously.

Sometimes, crash damage is hidden or not immediately apparent. When you get home, thoroughly check your ATV and correct any problems you find. Also, be sure to have your Honda dealer check the frame and suspension after any serious crash.

226


04/03/09 15:47:27 31HN7610_236

If You Lose Your Key at the rear of the manual. You’ll need this number to have a duplicate key made.

If you lose your key and aren’t carrying a duplicate, either get your spare or have one made. If you don’t know your key number, call the dealer you purchased your Honda from. They may have it listed in their records. If they don’t, transport your ATV to them or the nearest Honda dealer. The dealer will probably have to remove the ignition switch assembly to find the key number so they can make a key for you.

(1)

(1) key number


227

04/03/09 15:47:33 31HN7610_237

If a Component Fails

The brake levers or pedal, control cables, and other components can be damaged as you ride in dense brush or over rocky terrain. Making a trailside repair depends on how serious the damage is and what tools and supplies you have with you.

If any component of the brake system is damaged, you may be able to ride carefully back to your base using the other brake components for slowing or stopping.

If you damage a throttle cable or other critical component, your ATV may be unsafe to ride. Carefully assess the damage and make any repairs that you can. But if there is any doubt, it’s best to be conservative and safe.

228


04/03/09 15:47:38 31HN7610_238

Technical Information

This section contains dimensions, capacities, and other technical data, plus information on government requirements and how to break-in your

ATV.

Vehicle Identification .........................................................................

. 230

Specifications .....................................................................................

. 232

Break-in Guidelines ...........................................................................

. 236

High Altitude Carburetor Adjustment ................................................

. 237

Emission Control Systems ..................................................................

. 238

Oxygenated Fuels ...............................................................................

. 241


229

04/03/09 15:47:47 31HN7610_239

Vehicle Identification

Serial Numbers

The frame and engine serial numbers and key number may be required when ordering replacement parts. You may record these numbers in the

Quick Reference section at the rear of this manual.

(1)

FRONT crankcase.

RIGHT SIDE

(1) frame number

(2)

(2) engine number

230


04/03/09 15:47:53 31HN7610_240

Vehicle Identification

Color Label & Code

seat (page 138 ) to check the label.

The color code is helpful when ordering replacement parts. You may record the color and code in the Quick Reference section at the rear of this manual.

UNDER SEAT

(1)

(1) color label


231

04/03/09 15:48:11 31HN7610_241

Specifications

Dimensions overall length overall width overall height wheelbase ground clearance

Weight dry weight

Fuel & Lubricants fuel recommendation fuel tank capacity fuel tank reserve engine oil capacity engine oil recommendation

80.0 in (2,031 mm)

43.9 in (1,114 mm)

45.6 in (1,157 mm)

49.1 in (1,246 mm)

7.2 in (184 mm)

560 lbs (254 kg) unleaded gasoline, pump octane number of 86 or higher

3.83 US gal (14.5 ) including reserve

1.06 US gal (4.0 ) after disassembly:

3.5 US qt (3.3 ) after draining:

3.0 US qt (2.8 )

API Service Classification SG or higher except oils labeled as energy conserving on the circular API service label, SAE 10W-40, JASO T

903 standard MA,

Pro Honda GN4 or HP4 (without molybdenum additives) 4-stroke oil

(USA & Canada) or Honda 4-stroke oil (Canada only), or an equivalent motorcycle oil

232


04/03/09 15:48:28 31HN7610_242

Specifications

Capacities passenger capacity maximum weight capacity operator only

485 lbs (220 kg) rider, all cargo and accessories

Engine Specifications displacement bore & stroke compression ratio spark plug

(standard) spark plug

(cold climate) spark plug gap valve clearance

(cold) idle speed

24.2 cu-in (397 cm )

3.35

× 2.76 in (85.0

× 70.0 mm)

9.1 : 1

DPR8EA − 9 (NGK) or X24EPR − U9 (DENSO)

DPR7EA − 9 (NGK) or X22EPR − U9 (DENSO)

0.03

− 0.04 in (0.8

− 0.9 mm)

0.006 in (0.15 mm)

1,400 ± 100 rpm


233

04/03/09 15:48:46 31HN7610_243

Specifications

Power Transmission primary reduction secondary reduction sub transmission ratio final reduction front rear final drive reverse gear ratio

1.048

1.722

1.684

3.769

3.692

shaft

2.021

Chassis & Suspension caster trail tire size, front tire size, rear tire pressure, front & rear (cold) maximum tire pressure, front & rear (cold) minimum tire pressure, front & rear (cold)

4.0

°

0.7 in (17 mm)

AT24 × 8-12

AT24 × 10-11

★★

★★

3.6 psi (25 kPa , 0.25 kgf/cm )

4.0 psi (28 kPa , 0.28 kgf/cm )

3.2 psi (22 kPa , 0.22 kgf/cm )

234


04/03/09 15:49:07 31HN7610_244

Specifications

Electrical battery generator

Lights headlight brake/tail light neutral indicator reverse indicator oil high temperature indicator

4WD indicator

12 V − 12 Ah

0.322 kW/5,000 rpm

12 V 30/30 W × 2

12 V 21/5 W × 2

LED

LED

LED

LED

Fuses main main (control motor) other

30 A

30 A

15 A × 2, 10 A × 2

Torque Specification oil drain bolt oil filter bolt rear final gear case oil drain bolt differential oil drain bolt wheel nuts

18 lbf·ft (25 N·m , 2.5 kgf·m)

13 lbf·ft (18 N·m , 1.8 kgf·m)

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)

9 lbf·ft (12 N·m , 1.2 kgf·m)

47 lbf·ft (64 N·m , 6.5 kgf·m)


235

04/03/09 15:49:11 31HN7610_245

Break-in Guidelines

Help assure your ATV’s future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you ride during the first operating day or 15 miles

(25 km).

During this period, avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration.

236


04/03/09 15:49:17 31HN7610_246

High Altitude Carburetor Adjustment

Your engine’s air-fuel mixture becomes overly rich when operated at high altitudes. Above 3,000 feet (1,000 m), a rich mixture can cause driveability problems, reduce engine performance, and increase fuel consumption. To compensate, you can have the carburetor adjusted for high altitude riding. See your Honda dealer.

A high altitude jet is available to compensate for high altitude richness.

For those who are mechanically proficient and have the necessary tools, installation and adjustment procedures are given in the official Honda

Service Manual available from your Honda dealer. All others should have this carburetor modification performed by a Honda dealer.

However, the carburetor must be returned to standard factory specifications before riding again at lower altitudes (below 4,500 feet,

1,500 m).

Sustained riding at lower altitudes with the lean high-altitude setting may cause rough idling, stalling, or engine damage from overheating.


237

04/03/09 15:49:23 31HN7610_247

Emission Control Systems

Exhaust Emission Requirements

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) requires that your ATV comply with applicable exhaust emissions standards during its useful life, when operated and maintained according to the instructions provided.

front of the frame.

(1)

(1) vehicle emission control infomation label

238


04/03/09 19:26:32 31HN7610_248


Source of Exhaust Emissions

The combustion process produces carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC). Control of hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen is very important because, under certain conditions, they react to form photochemical smog when subjected to sunlight.

Carbon monoxide does not react in the same way, but it is toxic.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. utilizes lean carburetor settings and other systems to reduce carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons.

Exhaust Emission Control System

The exhaust emission control system consists of lean carburetor settings, and no adjustment should be made except idle speed adjustment with the throttle stop screw. The exhaust emission control system is separate from the crankcase emission control system.

Crankcase Emission Control System

The engine is equipped with a closed crankcase system to prevent discharging crankcase emissions into the atmosphere. Blow-by gas is returned to the combustion chamber through the air cleaner and the carburetor.

Problems That May Affect ATV Exhaust Emissions

If you are aware of any of the following symptoms, have the vehicle inspected and repaired by your Honda ATV dealer.

Symptoms:

1.

2.

Hard starting or stalling after starting

Rough idle

3.

4.

Misfiring or backfiring during acceleration

After-burning (backfiring)

5.

Poor performance (driveability) and poor fuel economy


239

04/03/09 15:49:41 31HN7610_249


Noise Emission Control System

TAMPERING WITH THE NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM IS

PROHIBITED:

State laws prohibit, or Canadian provincial laws may prohibit the inoperative by any person, other than for purposes of maintenance, repair or replacement, of any device or element of design incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise control prior to its sale or the vehicle after such device or element of design has been removed or rendered inoperative by any person.

AMONG THOSE ACTS PRESUMED TO CONSTITUTE

TAMPERING ARE THE FOLLOWING ACTS:

1.

Removal of, or puncturing the muffler, baffles, header pipes or any other component which conducts exhaust gases.

2.

3.

4.

Removal of, or puncturing of any part of the intake system.

Lack of proper maintenance.

Replacing any moving parts of the vehicle, or parts of the exhaust or intake system, with parts other than those specified by the manufacturer.

240


04/03/09 15:49:48 31HN7610_250

Oxygenated Fuels

Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to as oxygenated fuels. To meet clean air standards, some areas of the United States and

Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.

If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets the minimum octane rating requirement.

Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel’s contents.

Some states/provinces require this information to be posted on the pump.

The following are the EPA-approved percentages of oxygenates:

ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume

You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume.

Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under the name

‘‘Gasohol’’.

MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15% by Volume

You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.

METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) 5% by Volume

You may use gasoline containing methanol containing up to 5% methanol by volume as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and plastic parts of your fuel system.


241

04/03/09 15:49:53 31HN7610_251

Oxygenated Fuels

If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another service station or switch to another brand of gasoline.

Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages of oxygenates mentioned above are not covered under warranty.

Oxygenated fuels can damage paint and plastic. Be careful not to spill fuel when filling the fuel tank. Wipe up any spills immediately.

Oxygenated f uels can damage paint and plastic. Damage caused by spilled f uel is not covered by warranty.

242


04/03/09 15:49:58 31HN7610_252

Consumer Information

This section contains information on your warranty and how to get an official Honda service manual.

Authorized Manuals ...........................................................................

. 244

Warranty Coverage ............................................................................

. 247

Warranty Service ................................................................................

. 248

Contacting Honda ..............................................................................

. 249

Your Honda Dealer ............................................................................

. 250

The Honda Rider’s Club (USA only) .................................................

. 251


243

04/03/09 15:50:07 31HN7610_253

Authorized Manuals

The Service Manual used by your authorized Honda dealer is available from Helm, Inc. (USA only, Canada: See your Honda dealer to order authorized manuals.)

Also available, but not necessary, to service your model is the Honda

Common Service Manual, which explains theory of operation and basic service information for various systems common to all Honda motorcycles, motor scooters and ATVs.

These Honda manuals are written for the professional technician, but most mechanically-capable owners should find them easy to use if they have the proper tools and observe proper safety standards.

Special Honda tools are necessary for some procedures.

Publication Item No.

61HN701

61CM002

31HN7610

Description

2005 TRX400FA/FGA Rancher AT/

GPScape Service Manual

Common Service Manual

2005 TRX400FA/FGA Rancher AT/ with GPScape Owner’s Manual

＊ Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.

Price Each ＊

$48.00

$48.00

$16.00

244


04/03/09 15:50:18 31HN7610_254

Order On-Line: www.helminc.com

Order Toll Free: 1-888-CYCLE93 (1-888-292-5393)

(NOTE: For Credit Card Orders Only)

Monday − Friday 8:00 AM − 6:00 PM EST

OR

By completing this form you can order the materials desired. You can pay by check or money order, or charge to your credit card. Mail to

Helm, Inc. at the address shown on the back of this order form (USA only).

Canada: See your Honda dealer to order authorized manuals.

Publication

Item No.

Item Description Qty.

Price Each ＊ Total Price

＊ Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring obligation.

Orders are mailed within 10 days. Please allow adequate time for delivery.

Sub Total

Mich. Purchasers

Add 6 % Sales Tax

Handling Charge

Grand Total

$4.00


245

04/03/09 15:50:33 31HN7610_255

NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent.

S

H

I

P

T

O

Customer Name

Attention

Street Address

City

Daytime Telephone Number

( )

State

Apartment Number

Zip Code

Check or money order enclosed payable to Helm Inc. U. S. funds only. Do not send cash.

P

A

Y

M

E

N

T

Check here if your billing address is different from the shipping address shown above.

VISA

Account Number

MasterCard Discover

Expiration: Mo. Yr.

−

Customer Signature Date

These Publications cannot be returned for credit without receiving advance authorization within 14 days of delivery. On returns, a restocking fee may be applied against the original order.

HELM P. O. BOX 07280, DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48207

246


04/03/09 15:50:40 31HN7610_256

Warranty Coverage

Your new Honda is covered by these warranties:

ATV Limited Warranty

Noise Control Warranty

There are responsibilities, restrictions, and exclusions which apply to these warranties. Please read the Warranties Booklet given to you by your Honda dealer at the time of purchase. Be sure to keep your Honda owner’s card with your Warranties Booklet (USA only).

It is important to realize that your warranty applies to defects in material or workmanship of your Honda. Your warranty coverage does not apply to normal wear or deterioration associated with using the ATV.

Your warranty coverage will not be voided if you choose to perform your own maintenance. However, you should have the proper tools and service information and be mechanically qualified. Failures that occur due directly to improper maintenance are not covered.

Almost all of your warranty coverage can be extended through the

Honda Protection Plan (USA only). For more information, see your

Honda dealer.


247

04/03/09 15:50:46 31HN7610_257

Warranty Service

Please remember that recommended maintenance interval servicing is not included in your warranty coverage. Additionally, your warranty does not apply to the normal wear of items (such as brakes, tires, etc.).

If you believe you have a problem with your ATV, call the service department of your Honda dealer. Make an appointment for an inspection and diagnosis. Remember, as the owner of the ATV, you will be asked to authorize that inspection. Your dealer will give you the results of the inspection. If the problem is covered under warranty, your dealer will perform the warranty repairs for you.

If you have questions about warranty coverage or the nature of the repair, it is best to talk to the service manager of your Honda dealer.

Sometimes, in spite of the best intentions of all concerned, a misunderstanding may occur. If you aren’t satisfied with your dealer’s handling of the situation, we suggest you discuss your problem with the appropriate member of the dealership’s management team. If the problem has already been reviewed with the Service Manager, Parts

Manager, Sales Manager, etc., contact the Owner of the dealership or their designated representative.

248


04/03/09 15:50:53 31HN7610_258

Contacting Honda

Your owner’s manual was written to cover most of the questions you might ask about your Honda. Any questions not answered in the owner’s manual can be answered by your Honda dealer. If your dealer doesn’t have the answer right away, they will get it for you.

If you have a difference of opinion with your dealer, please remember that each dealership is independently owned and operated. That’s why it’s important to work to resolve any differences at the dealership level.

If you wish to comment on your experiences with your Honda or with your dealer, please send your comments to the following address (USA only):

Motorcycle Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., P.O. Box 2220,

Torrance, CA 90509-2220, mailstop: 100-4W-5B, telephone: (310) 532-

9811.

Canada: Refer to the Warranties Booklet that was supplied with your vehicle.

Please include the following information in your letter: name, address, and telephone number product model, year, and frame number date of purchase dealer name and address

We will likely ask your Honda dealer to respond, or possibly acknowledge your comments directly.


249

04/03/09 15:50:59 31HN7610_259

Your Honda Dealer

Once you purchase your new Honda, get familiar with the organization of your Honda dealer so you can utilize the full range of services available.

The service department is there to perform regular maintenance and unexpected repairs. It has the latest available service information from

Honda. The service department will also handle warranty inspections and repairs.

The parts department offers Genuine Honda parts, Pro Honda products,

Hondaline accessories (USA only), and Honda accessories and products

(Canada only). The same quality that went into your Honda can be found in Genuine Honda replacement parts. You’ll also find comparable quality in the accessories and products available from the parts department.

The sales department offers the Honda Protection Plan to extend almost all of your warranty coverage (USA only).

Your Honda dealer can inform you about competition and other riding events in your area. You’ll also find that your dealer is a source of information about American Honda’s Rider Education Centers and the

Honda Rider’s Club of America (USA only).

We’re sure you’ll be as pleased with the service your Honda dealer continues to provide after the sale as you are with the quality and dependability of your Honda.

250


04/03/09 15:51:10 31HN7610_260

The Honda Rider’s Club (USA only)

One of the best ways to get the most enjoyment from owning and riding your Honda is through the Honda Rider’s Club of America. Your purchase of a new motorcycle, scooter, ATV or PWC from a participating U.S. Honda dealer entitles you to a complimentary oneyear membership in the Club. There are hundreds of HRCA Chapter sponsoring dealers across the USA with events and activities almost every weekend. Membership benefits include:

24 hour, toll-free roadside assistance for your new Honda (includes roadside assistance for your transport vehicle as long as your Honda is aboard or in tow).

Vehicle transport to the nearest Honda dealer or service center, if necessary.

An exclusive HRCA website complete with access to the official

Honda Common Service Manual, contests, insider information and more.

Reimbursement (up to $75) for Motorcycle Safety Foundation training. Separate free training from the Specialty Vehicle Institute of

America for ATV owners.

One full year of the Honda Red Rider magazine or Honda Red Rider

ATV (for ATV purchasers).

Discounts from HRCA partners for experienced rider courses.

Discounted vehicle insurance from the HRCA’s insurance partner.

Racing contingency programs and assistance at selected dual-sport, off-road, and motocross events.

Contact your Honda dealer for more information or call: 1-800-847-

HRCA or log on to www.hrca.honda.com.


251

04/03/09 15:51:15 31HN7610_261

Table of Contents

The following presents the contents of each section of your owner’s manual.

ATV SAFETY ......................................................................................

. 1

Important Safety Information ................................................................

. 2

Safety Labels ..........................................................................................

. 5

INSTRUMENTS & CONTROLS .......................................................

. 9

Component Locations ..........................................................................

. 11

Indicators & Displays ...........................................................................

. 14

Multi-function Display .....................................................................

. 19

Drive Mode Indicator .......................................................................

. 20

Gear Position Indicator .....................................................................

. 21

Oil Change Indicator ........................................................................

. 22

Odometer ..........................................................................................

. 23

Tripmeter ..........................................................................................

. 23

Hourmeter ........................................................................................

. 24

Digital Clock ....................................................................................

. 25

Fuel Gauge .......................................................................................

. 27

Controls & Features .............................................................................

. 28

Fuel Valve ........................................................................................

. 28

Choke Knob .....................................................................................

. 29

Ignition Switch .................................................................................

. 30

Start Button ......................................................................................

. 31

Engine Stop Switch ..........................................................................

. 31

Headlight Switch ..............................................................................

. 32

Headlight Dimmer Switch ................................................................

. 32

Drive Mode Select Switch ................................................................

. 33

Gearshift Switch ...............................................................................

. 34

Shift Lever .......................................................................................

. 35

2WD/4WD Select Switch ................................................................

. 36

Starting Primer Knob .......................................................................

. 37

Recoil Starter ....................................................................................

. 37

Throttle lever ....................................................................................

. 38

252


04/03/09 15:51:20 31HN7610_262


Front Brake Lever ............................................................................

. 39

Rear Brake Lever .............................................................................

. 39

Rear Brake Pedal ..............................................................................

. 39

Parking Brake ...................................................................................

. 40

Flag Pole Bracket .............................................................................

. 41

Trailer Hitch .....................................................................................

. 42

Accessory Socket .............................................................................

. 43

GPScape SYSTEM (TRX400FGA only) ..........................................

. 45

Introduction ..........................................................................................

. 46

Important Safety Information ..............................................................

. 49

System Limitations ...............................................................................

. 50

System Start-up ....................................................................................

. 51

Position Fix ......................................................................................

. 51

System Failure to Display a Position Fix .........................................

. 52

Satellite Status ......................................................................................

. 54

GPS Mode ............................................................................................

. 56

GPS Mode Display ...........................................................................

. 58

Waypoint Number Display ..............................................................

. 59

Direction to Waypoint Display ........................................................

. 60

Distance to Waypoint ......................................................................

. 62

Basic Waypoint Selection ................................................................

. 63

Advanced Waypoint Selection .........................................................

. 65

Determining the Coordinates of Your Current Position ...................

. 69

Compass Direction Indicator ................................................................

. 70

Automatic Clock Adjustment ...............................................................

. 72


253

04/03/09 15:51:24 31HN7610_263


BEFORE RIDING .............................................................................

. 73

Are You Ready to Ride ?

.....................................................................

. 74

Protective Apparel ............................................................................

. 74

Rider Training ..................................................................................

. 76

Age Recommendation ......................................................................

. 77

No Passengers ..................................................................................

. 77

No Alcohol or Drugs ........................................................................

. 78

Is Your ATV Ready to Ride ?

..............................................................

. 79

Pre-ride Inspection ...........................................................................

. 79

Load Limits & Guidelines ....................................................................

. 82

Loading ............................................................................................

. 82

Load Limits ......................................................................................

. 83

Loading Guidelines ..........................................................................

. 84

Accessories & Modifications ...............................................................

. 85

Accessories .......................................................................................

. 85

Modifications ...................................................................................

. 86

254


04/03/09 15:51:28 31HN7610_264


BASIC OPERATION & RIDING ....................................................

. 87

Safe Riding Precautions .......................................................................

. 89

Off-Road Use Only ..........................................................................

. 89

Keeps Hands and Feet on Controls ..................................................

. 90

Control Speed ...................................................................................

. 91

Use Care on Unfamiliar or Rough Terrain .......................................

. 92

Do Not Perform Stunts .....................................................................

. 93

Starting & Stopping the Engine ...........................................................

. 94

Preparation .......................................................................................

. 94

Starting Procedure ............................................................................

. 95

Flooded Engine ................................................................................

. 97

Stalled Engine ..................................................................................

. 97

How to Stop the Engine ...................................................................

. 98

Using the Recoil Starter ...................................................................

. 99

Shifting Gears ....................................................................................

. 100

Riding in Reverse ...............................................................................

. 106


255

04/03/09 15:51:32 31HN7610_265


Braking ...............................................................................................

. 108

Riding Your ATV ..............................................................................

. 110

Making Turns .................................................................................

. 110

Skidding or Sliding ........................................................................

. 112

Riding Up Hills ..............................................................................

. 113

Riding Down Hills .........................................................................

. 117

Crossing or Turning on Hills or Slopes ..........................................

. 118

Riding Over Obstacles ...................................................................

. 120

Riding Through Water ...................................................................

. 121

Parking ...............................................................................................

. 122

256


04/03/09 15:51:42 31HN7610_266


SERVICING YOUR HONDA .........................................................

. 123

Bef ore You Service Your Honda

The Importance of Maintenance ........................................................

. 125

Maintenance Safety ............................................................................

. 126

Important Safety Precautions .........................................................

. 127

Maintenance Schedule .......................................................................

. 128

Maintenance Record ...........................................................................

. 132

Service Preparations

Component Locations ........................................................................

. 133

Tool Kit ..............................................................................................

. 136

Owner’s Manual Storage ....................................................................

. 137

Seat Removal .....................................................................................

. 138

Service Procedures

Fluids & Filters

Fuel ....................................................................................................

. 139

Engine Oil & Filter .............................................................................

. 142

Gear Case Oil .....................................................................................

. 150

Differential Oil ...................................................................................

. 152

Air Cleaner .........................................................................................

. 154

Engine

Throttle ...............................................................................................

. 160

Carburetor Choke Cable & Knob .......................................................

. 162

Engine Idle Speed ..............................................................................

. 163

Spark Plug ..........................................................................................

. 164

Valves .................................................................................................

. 167

Spark Arester ......................................................................................

. 168

(cont’d)


257

04/03/09 15:51:49 31HN7610_267


Chassis

Brakes .................................................................................................

. 169

Tires ...................................................................................................

. 182

Engine Guards & Skid Plates .............................................................

. 189

Driveshaft Boots ................................................................................

. 190

Electrical

Battery ................................................................................................

. 191

Appearance Care ................................................................................

. 196

TIPS ...................................................................................................

. 201

Preparing for a Ride ...........................................................................

. 202

What to Take to the Riding Area ...................................................

. 202

What to Take on the Trail ..............................................................

. 203

Transporting Your Honda ..................................................................

. 204

Storing Your Honda ...........................................................................

. 206

You & the Environment .....................................................................

. 210

TAKING CARE OF THE UNEXPECTED ...................................

. 211

General Guidelines .............................................................................

. 212

If Your Engine Quits or Won’t Start ..................................................

. 214

If the Transmission Is Not Functioning Properly ...............................

. 217

If the Battery Is Dead .........................................................................

. 218

If You Have a Flat Tire .....................................................................

. 219

If the Oil High Temperature Indicator Lights ....................................

. 222

If a Fuse Blows ..................................................................................

. 223

If You Crash .......................................................................................

. 226

If You Lose Your Key .......................................................................

. 227

If a Component Fails ..........................................................................

. 228

258


04/03/09 15:51:53 31HN7610_268


TECHNICAL INFORMATION .....................................................

. 229

Vehicle Identification .........................................................................

. 230

Specifications .....................................................................................

. 232

Break-in Guidelines ...........................................................................

. 236

High Altitude Carburetor Adjustment ................................................

. 237

Emission Control Systems ..................................................................

. 238

Oxygenated Fuels ...............................................................................

. 241

CONSUMER INFORMATION ......................................................

. 243

Authorized Manuals ...........................................................................

. 244

Warranty Coverage ............................................................................

. 247

Warranty Service ................................................................................

. 248

Contacting Honda ..............................................................................

. 249

Your Honda Dealer ............................................................................

. 250

The Honda Rider’s Club (USA only) .................................................

. 251

TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................

. 252

INDEX ...............................................................................................

. 260

QUICK REFERENCE


259

04/03/09 15:51:58 31HN7610_269

Index

A accessories ............................................................................................

. 85 accessory socket ...................................................................................

. 43 age recommendation ............................................................................

. 77 air cleaner, filter ................................................................................................

. 155 housing drain tube ..........................................................................

. 159 air pressure, gauge ..............................................................................................

. 137 tire ..................................................................................................

. 183 altitude, high .......................................................................................

. 237

American Honda, contacting ..............................................................

. 249 apparel, protective ................................................................................

. 74 appearance care ..................................................................................

. 196 authorized manuals .............................................................................

. 244

B battery .................................................................................................

. 191 brakes, cables ......................................................................................

. 177, 179 draining water from ........................................................................

. 181 fluid ................................................................................................

. 169 front brake lever ...............................................................................

. 39 front brake lever freeplay ...............................................................

. 172 front brake shoes ............................................................................

. 173 parking .............................................................................................

. 40

260

Index

04/03/09 15:52:04 31HN7610_270

Index rear brake lever .................................................................................

. 39 rear brake lever freeplay ................................................................

. 178 rear brake pedal ................................................................................

. 39 rear brake pedal freeplay ................................................................

. 176 shoe lining clearance ......................................................................

. 173 shoe wear ........................................................................................

. 180 braking ...............................................................................................

. 108 break-in guidelines .............................................................................

. 236 button, hourmeter/digital clock select (WP) ...........................................

. 18, 19 hour select (plus) .......................................................................

minute select (minus) ................................................................

. 18, 19

. 18, 19 odometer/tripmeter select (mode select) ...................................

. 18, 19

C capacity, fuel ......................................................................................

. 140 carburetor, altitude adjustment ...........................................................

. 237 care, appearance .................................................................................

. 196 cargo, loading and operational guidelines ...................................................

. 82 weight limit ......................................................................................

. 83 choke, cable ...............................................................................................

. 162 knob ....................................................................................

. 29, 95, 162 climbing hills ......................................................................................

. 113 color label ...........................................................................................

. 231 compass direction indicator ..................................................................

. 70 compartment, owner’s manual ..............................................................................

. 137 tool kit ............................................................................................

. 136

(cont’d)

Index

261

04/03/09 15:52:08 31HN7610_271

Index component fails ..................................................................................

. 228 component locations, instruments & controls .....................................................................

. 11 maintenance ...................................................................................

. 133 consumer information ........................................................................

. 243 crash, if you ........................................................................................

. 226 crossing or turning on hills or slops ...................................................

. 118 customer service .................................................................................

. 249

D differential oil ....................................................................................

. 152 digital clock ..........................................................................................

. 25 dimmer switch, headlight .....................................................................

. 32 dipstick ...............................................................................................

. 145 display, multi-function .........................................................................

. 19 driveshaft boots ..................................................................................

. 190 drive mode indicator ............................................................................

. 20 drive mode select switch ......................................................................

. 33

262

Index

04/03/09 15:52:13 31HN7610_272

Index

E emission control system .....................................................................

. 238 engine flooded .............................................................................................

. 97 guard ..............................................................................................

. 189 idle speed ........................................................................................

. 163 number ...........................................................................................

. 230 oil ...................................................................................................

. 142 pinging ...........................................................................................

. 139 starting ..............................................................................................

. 95 stop switch ........................................................................................

. 31 stopping ............................................................................................

. 98 won’t start ......................................................................................

. 214 environment .......................................................................................

. 210

F final gear case oil ...............................................................................

. 150 flag pole bracket ...................................................................................

. 41 flat tire ................................................................................................

. 220 flooded engine ......................................................................................

. 97 frame number .....................................................................................

. 230

(cont’d)

Index

263

04/03/09 15:52:19 31HN7610_273

Index fuel, fill cap ............................................................................................

. 140 gauge ................................................................................................

. 27 high altitude fuel mixture adjustment .............................................

. 237 oxygenated .....................................................................................

. 241 recommendation .............................................................................

. 139 reserve fuel supply .........................................................................

. 140 tank capacity ..................................................................................

. 140 valve .................................................................................................

. 28 fuses ...................................................................................................

. 223

G gap, spark plug ...................................................................................

. 165 gasohol ...............................................................................................

. 241 gasoline ..............................................................................................

. 139 gear case oil ........................................................................................

. 150 gear shifting .......................................................................................

. 100 gearshift switch ....................................................................................

. 34 gps mode display ..................................................................................

. 58

H headlight dimmer switch ......................................................................

. 32 headlight switch ...................................................................................

. 32 high altitude carburetor adjustment ....................................................

. 237

264

Index

04/03/09 15:52:25 31HN7610_274

Index hills, crossing or turning on slops ...........................................................

. 118 riding down hills ............................................................................

. 117 riding up hills .................................................................................

. 113 stopping on hills .............................................................................

. 115

Honda, contacting .......................................................................................

. 249

Rider’s Club ...................................................................................

. 251 dealer ..............................................................................................

. 250 hourmeter .............................................................................................

. 24 hourmeter/digital clock select button .............................................

. 18, 19 hour select button ...........................................................................

. 18, 19

Honda service manual ........................................................................

. 244

I identification, vehicle .........................................................................

. 230 idle speed, engine ...............................................................................

. 163 ignition switch ......................................................................................

. 30 indicators drive mode indicator ........................................................................

. 20 gear position indicator ......................................................................

. 21 neutral indicator ...............................................................................

. 16 oil change indicator ..........................................................................

. 22 oil high temperature indicator ..........................................................

. 16 reverse indicator ...............................................................................

. 16 inspection, pre-ride ...............................................................................

. 79

K key, lost ..............................................................................................

. 227 kit, tool ...............................................................................................

. 136

Index

265

04/03/09 15:52:29 31HN7610_275

Index

L labels, safety ...........................................................................................

. 5 lamp check ...........................................................................................

. 14 latitude ..................................................................................................

. 46 limit, weight .........................................................................................

. 83 load limits .............................................................................................

. 83 loading guidelines ................................................................................

. 84 location, components, instruments & controls .....................................................................

. 11 maintenance ...................................................................................

. 133 longitude ...............................................................................................

. 46 lubrication engine oil ........................................................................................

. 142 defferential oil ................................................................................

. 152 gear case oil ....................................................................................

. 150

M maintenance, importance ......................................................................................

. 125 precautions .....................................................................................

. 127 record .............................................................................................

. 132 safety ..............................................................................................

. 126 schedule ..........................................................................................

. 128 manual, service ...................................................................................

. 244 maximum weight limit .........................................................................

. 83

266

Index

04/03/09 15:52:35 31HN7610_276

Index minus button ...................................................................................

. 18, 19 minute select button .......................................................................

. 18, 19 mode select button ..........................................................................

. 18, 19 modifications ........................................................................................

. 86 multi-function display ..........................................................................

. 19

N neutral indicator ...................................................................................

. 16 noise emission control system ............................................................

. 240 numbers, serial ...................................................................................

. 230

O obstacles, riding over .........................................................................

. 120 odometer ...............................................................................................

. 23 odometer/tripmeter select button ....................................................

. 18, 19 oil, differential ......................................................................................

. 152 engine .............................................................................................

. 142 gear case .........................................................................................

. 150 oil high temperature indicator ......................................................

. 16, 222 operating controls .................................................................................

. 28 owner’s manual storage ......................................................................

. 137 oxygenated fuels ................................................................................

. 241

Index

267

04/03/09 15:52:40 31HN7610_277

Index

P parking ...............................................................................................

. 122 passanger, no carrying ..........................................................................

. 77 pavement, no reding on ........................................................................

. 89 pinging, engine ...................................................................................

. 139 plugs, spark ........................................................................................

. 164 plus button ......................................................................................

. 18, 19 position fix ...........................................................................................

. 51 pre-ride inspection ................................................................................

. 79 problems, unexpected .........................................................................

. 211 protective apparel .................................................................................

. 74

R rear final gear case oil ........................................................................

. 150 recoil starter ..........................................................................................

. 37 removal, seat ......................................................................................

. 138 reverse, gear, shifting into ...........................................................................

. 106 indicator ...........................................................................................

. 16 riding in ..........................................................................................

. 106 rider training .........................................................................................

. 76

Rider’s Club, Honda ...........................................................................

. 251

268

Index

04/03/09 15:52:45 31HN7610_278

Index riding, basic operations ................................................................................

. 87 clothing .............................................................................................

. 74 precautions .......................................................................................

. 89 preparing for ..................................................................................

. 202 over obstacles .................................................................................

. 120 safety ..................................................................................................

. 2 safety precautions .............................................................................

. 89 through water .................................................................................

. 121

S safety, important precautions .....................................................................

. 127 labels ..................................................................................................

. 5 riding precautions .............................................................................

. 89 satellite status .......................................................................................

. 54 schedule, maintenance ........................................................................

. 128 seat removal .......................................................................................

. 138 serial numbers ....................................................................................

. 230 service, customer .........................................................................................

. 249 manuals ..........................................................................................

. 244 warranty .........................................................................................

. 248

(cont’d)

Index

269

04/03/09 15:52:49 31HN7610_279

Index shifting gears ......................................................................................

. 100 skid plates ...........................................................................................

. 189 skidding or sliding ..............................................................................

. 112 spark arrester ......................................................................................

. 168 spark knock ........................................................................................

. 139 spark plug ...........................................................................................

. 164 specifications ......................................................................................

. 232 speedometer .........................................................................................

. 17 stalling on a hill ..................................................................................

. 115 start button ............................................................................................

. 31 starting, engine ...............................................................................................

. 94 troubleshooting ...............................................................................

. 214 stop switch, engine ...............................................................................

. 31 stopping engine ....................................................................................

. 98 storage,

ATV ...............................................................................................

. 206 owner’s manual ..............................................................................

. 137 switch, headlight ...........................................................................................

. 32 headlight dimmer .............................................................................

. 32 ignition .............................................................................................

. 30

270

Index

04/03/09 15:52:54 31HN7610_280

Index

T throttle cable ...............................................................................................

. 161 lever ..........................................................................................

. 38, 160 tires, air pressure .....................................................................................

. 183 flat ..................................................................................................

. 219 replacing .........................................................................................

. 188 repairing .........................................................................................

. 187 thread conditions ............................................................................

. 185 tool kit ................................................................................................

. 136 trailer hitch ...........................................................................................

. 42 trailer towing operational guidelines ......................................................................

. 84 weight limits .....................................................................................

. 83 training, rider ........................................................................................

. 76 transporting your ATV .......................................................................

. 204 tripmeter ...............................................................................................

. 23 trouble, unexpected ............................................................................

. 211 troubleshooting, starting .....................................................................

. 214 turning, on level ground ...............................................................................

. 110 on hills or slopes .............................................................................

. 118

V valve, fuel .............................................................................................

. 28 valve clearance ...................................................................................

. 167

Index

271

04/03/09 15:52:58 31HN7610_281

Index

W warning labels ........................................................................................

. 5 warranty, coverage .........................................................................................

. 247 extended .........................................................................................

. 247 service ............................................................................................

. 248 washing your ATV .............................................................................

. 197 water, riding through .................................................................................

. 121 draining from brakes ......................................................................

. 181 waypoint ...............................................................................................

. 59 weight limit ..........................................................................................

. 83 wheel removal .....................................................................................

.220

wp button ........................................................................................

.18, 19

272

Index

04/03/09 15:53:05 31HN7610_282

Quick Reference

The following is a brief, but important collection of information you need to know about your Honda. You’ll also find space to record important notes.

How To Avoid Costly Repairs

The engine of your Honda can be the most expensive component to repair. Proper maintenance, especially the use of the recommended fluids and filters, prevents premature wear and damage.

Frequent causes of costly repairs are:

Engine oil: insufficient quantity, improper oil.

Air cleaner: dirty, leaking because of improper installation (poor seal).

Record important information on the following page:

Quick Reference

04/03/09 15:53:09 31HN7610_283

Quick Reference

Engine No.

Frame No.

Ignition Key No.

Color Label

Owner’s Name

Address

City/State

Phone

Dealer’s Name

Address

City/State

Phone

Service Mgr.

Quick Reference

04/03/09 15:53:19 31HN7610_284

Scheduled

Maintenance

Pre-ride Inspection

Fuel/Capacity

Engine Oil

Maximum Weight

Capacity

Quick Reference

Initial: 100 miles (150 km)

Regular: every 600 miles (1,000 km)

Check the following items each time before you ride (page 79 ): engine oil, fuel, tires, driveshaft boots, nuts & bolts, underbody & exhaust system, air cleaner housing drain tube, leaks, loose parts, cables, throttle, brakes, switches, steering.

unleaded gasoline, pump octane number

86 or higher

3.83 US gal (14.5 ) reserve:

1.06 US gal (4.0 )

API Service Classification SG or higher except oils labeled as energy conserving on the circular API service label,

SAE 10W-40, JASO T 903 standard MA,

Pro Honda GN4 or HP4 (without molybdenum additives) 4-stroke oil or equivalent

485 lbs (220 kg) rider, all cargo and accessories

Quick Reference

04/03/09 15:53:30 31HN7610_285

Quick Reference

Tires

Tire Pressure (cold)

Spark Plugs

Fuses

Front:

Rear:

Front:

AT24 × 8-12 ★★

AT24 × 10-11 ★★

3.6 psi (25 kPa , 0.25 kgf/cm )

Rear: 3.6 psi (25 kPa , 0.25 kgf/cm ) maximum tire pressure:

4.0 psi (28 kPa , 0.28 kgf/cm )

(front & rear) minimum tire pressure:

3.2 psi (22 kPa , 0.22 kgf/cm )

(front & rear) standard:

DPR8EA − 9 (NGK) or

X24EPR − U9 (DENSO) cold climate:

DPR7EA − 9 (NGK) or

X22EPR − U9 (DENSO) main: 30 A main (control motor): other: 15 A × 2, 10 A ×

30 A

2

Quick Reference

Honda TRX400FA 2005, TRX400FGA 2005 Owner's Manual 285 Pages

Honda TRX400FA 2005, TRX400FGA 2005 Owner's Manual

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

Multi-function Display

19

Drive Mode Indicator

20

Gear Position Indicator

21

Oil Change Indicator

22

Odometer

Tripmeter

23

Hourmeter

24

Digital Clock

25

26

Fuel Gauge

27

Fuel Valve

28

Choke Knob

29

Ignition Switch

30

Start Button

Engine Stop Switch

31

Headlight Switch

Headlight Dimmer Switch

32

Drive Mode Select Switch

33

Gearshift Switch

34

Shift Lever

35

2WD/4WD Select Switch

36

Starting Primer Knob

Recoil Starter

37

Throttle Lever

38

Front Brake Lever

Rear Brake Lever

Rear Brake Pedal

39

Parking Brake

40

Flag Pole Bracket

41

Trailer Hitch

42

Accessory Socket

43

44

45

46

47

48