YAMAHA YZ250F 2016 Owners Manual

PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
3-7
EAS1SM9065PRE-OPERATION INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Before riding for break-in operation, practice or a race, make sure the machine is in good operating
condition.
Before using this machine, check the following points.
EAS1SM9066GENERAL INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
TIP
Perform usual maintenance enough so that, in the race course, a confirmation of that and simple set-
ting adjustments may only be left, in order to get enough time to use effectively.ITEM inspect Page
CoolantCheck that coolant is filled up to the radiator cap.
Check the cooling system for leakage.3-8 – 10
FuelCheck that a fresh gasoline is filled in the fuel tank.
Check the fuel line for leakage.1-20
Engine oilCheck that the oil level is correct. Check the crank-
case and oil line for leakage.3-14 – 16
Gear shifter and clutchCheck that gears can be shifted correctly in order and
that the clutch operates smoothly.3-10 – 11
Throttle grip/HousingCheck that the throttle grip operation and free play
are correctly adjusted. Lubricate the throttle grip and
housing, if necessary.3-11 – 12
BrakesCheck the play of front brake and effect of front and
rear brake.3-22 – 28
Drive chainCheck drive chain slack and alignment. Check that
the drive chain is lubricated properly.3-28
4-64 – 65
WheelsCheck for excessive wear and tire pressure. Check
for loose spokes and have no excessive play.3-33 – 34
SteeringCheck that the handlebar can be turned smoothly and
have no excessive play.3-34 – 35
Front forks and rear
shock absorberCheck that they operate smoothly and there is no oil
leakage.3-29 – 33
Cables (wires)Check that the clutch and throttle cables move
smoothly. Check that they are not caught when the
handlebars are turned or when the front forks travel
up and down.—
Exhaust pipeCheck that the exhaust pipe is tightly mounted and
has no cracks.3-13 – 14
Rear wheel sprocketCheck that the rear wheel sprocket tightening bolt is
not loose.4-8 – 9
Lubrication Check for smooth operation. Lubricate if necessary. 3-12, 3-35
Bolts and nutsCheck the chassis and engine for loose bolts and
nuts.1-23 – 24
Lead connectorsCheck that the AC magneto, ECU and ignition coil are
connected tightly.1-10 – 12
SettingsIs the machine set suitably for the condition of the rac-
ing course and weather or by taking into account the
results of test runs before racing? Are inspection and
maintenance completely done?10-1 – 8

ENGINE
3-8
EAS1SM9067
ENGINE
EAS1SM9068CHECKING THE COOLANT LEVELEWA1DX1003
WARNING
If coolant seems hot, do not remove the ra-
diator cap.
1. Stand the vehicle upright on a level surface.
2. Remove:
• Radiator cap “1”
3. Check:
• Coolant level
Maximum level “a” or below  Add coolant
up to the maximum level.
ECA1DX1004
NOTICE
• Adding water instead of coolant lowers the
antifreeze content. If, therefore, water is
used instead of coolant, check, and if nec-
essary, adjust the antifreeze concentra-
tion.
• Use only distilled water. However, if dis-
tilled water is not available, soft water may
be used.
4. Start the engine, warm this up for several
minutes, and then stop it.
5. Check:
• Coolant level
TIP
Before checking the coolant level, wait a few
minutes until the coolant has settled.
EAS1SM9069CHECKING THE COOLING SYSTEM
1. Remove:
• Seat
• Side cover (left/right)
• Air scoop (left/right)
Refer to “GENERAL CHASSIS” on page 4-
1.
• Air filter case cover
Refer to “THROTTLE BODY” on page 7-5.
2. Check:
• Radiator
• Radiator hoses
Crack/damage  Replace.
Refer to “RADIATOR” on page 6-1.
3. Install:
• Air filter case cover
Refer to “THROTTLE BODY” on page 7-5.
• Air scoop (left/right)
• Seat
• Side cover (left/right)
Refer to “GENERAL CHASSIS” on page 4-
1.
EAS1SM9070CHANGING THE COOLANTEWA1DX1004
WARNING
If coolant seems hot, do not remove the ra-
diator cap.
1. Place a container under the engine.
2. Remove:
• Coolant drain bolt “1”
3. Remove:
• Radiator cap
Slowly loosen the radiator cap to drain cool-
ant.
TIP
When the radiator cap is loosened, coolant will
gush out transversely; therefore, bring the con-
tainer near to the outlet.
4. Thoroughly flush the cooling system with
clean tap water.
1. Radiator
1

ENGINE
3-9
5. Install:
• Copper washer
• Coolant drain bolt
6. Pour coolant.
EWA13040
WARNING
• If coolant splashes in your eyes, thorough-
ly wash them with water and consult a
doctor.
• If coolant splashes on your clothes, quick-
ly wash it away with water and then with
soap and water.
• If coolant is swallowed, induce vomiting
and get immediate medical attention.
ECA13480
NOTICE
• Adding water instead of coolant lowers the
antifreeze content of the coolant. If water
is used instead of coolant check, and if
necessary, correct the antifreeze concen-
tration of the coolant.
• Use only distilled water. However, if dis-
tilled water is not available, soft water may
be used.
• If coolant comes into contact with painted
surfaces, immediately wash them with wa-
ter.
• Do not mix different types of antifreeze.
7. Install:
• Radiator cap
8. Start the engine, warm this up for several
minutes, stop it, and then wait for it to cool
down.
9. Check:
• Coolant level
Refer to “CHECKING THE COOLANT LEV-
EL” on page 3-8.
EAS1SM9071CHECKING THE RADIATOR CAP
1. Check:
• Seal (radiator cap) “1”• Valve and valve seat “2”
Crack/damage  Replace.
Exist fur deposits  Clean or replace.
EAS1SM9072CHECKING THE RADIATOR CAP VALVE
OPENING PRESSURE
1. Check:
• Radiator cap valve opening pressure
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a. Install the radiator cap tester adapter “2” and
the radiator cap tester “3” to the radiator cap
“1,” and activate the tester to check whether
it can stay for 5 to 10 seconds within stan-
dard pressure values.
TIP
Before attaching the cap to the tester, apply
water to its sealing surface.
No stay  Replace.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
Coolant drain bolt
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
Recommended coolant
High quality ethylene glycol
anti-freeze containing anti-cor-
rosion for aluminum engine
Radiator (including all routes)
1.00 L (1.06 US qt, 0.88 Imp.qt)
Coolant mixing ratio
1:1 (Coolant:Water)
New
T R..
Radiator cap valve opening pres-
sure
108–137 kPa (1.08–1.37 kg/cm
2,
15.7–19.9 psi)
Radiator cap tester
90890-01325
Mityvac cooling system tester kit
YU-24460-A
Radiator cap tester adapter
90890-01352
Pressure tester adapter
YU-33984

ENGINE
3-10
EAS1SM9073CHECKING THE COOLANT CIRCULATORY
SYSTEM FOR LEAKS
1. Check:
• Coolant level
2. Install:
• Radiator cap tester “1”
• Adapter “2”
3. Activate the tester to apply the test pressure.
ECA@
NOTICE
• Do not apply such a high pressure as ex-
ceeds the test pressure.
• Make sure that a checkup after the cylin-
der head gasket is replaced is made after 2
to 3 minutes of warm-up.
• Make sure that coolant is filled up to the
upper level beforehand.
4. Check:
• Pressure value
No stay for 5 to 10 seconds at the test pres-
sure value  Correct.
• Radiator
• Radiator hose connections
Coolant leaks  Correct or replace.
• Radiator hoses
Bulges  Replace
EWA@
WARNING
When the radiator cap tester is removed,
coolant will spout; therefore, cover it with a
cloth beforehand.
EAS1SM9074ADJUSTING THE CLUTCH LEVER POSI-
TION
1. Adjust:
• Clutch lever position “a”
Loosen the locknut “1” and use the adjuster
“2” to adjust the clutch lever position “a” as
desired.
2. Tighten:
• Locknut
EAS1SM9075ADJUSTING THE CLUTCH LEVER FREE
PLAY
1. Check:
• Clutch lever free play “a”
Out of specification  Regulate.
2. Adjust:
• Clutch lever free play
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
Handlebar side
a. Turn the adjuster “1” in direction “a” or “b”
until the specified clutch lever free play is ob-
tained. Radiator cap tester
90890-01325
Mityvac cooling system tester kit
YU-24460-A
Radiator cap tester adapter
90890-01352
Pressure tester adapter
YU-33984
Test pressure value
196 kPa (1.96 kg/cm
2, 27.9 psi)
Locknut
4.8 Nm (0.48 m·kgf, 3.5 ft·lbf)
Clutch lever free play
7.0–12.0 mm (0.28–0.47 in)
Direction “a”
Clutch lever free play is increased.
Direction “b”
Clutch lever free play is decreased.
1
2
a
T R..

ENGINE
3-11
TIP
If the clutch lever free play cannot be obtained
on the handlebar side, use the adjuster on the
clutch cable side.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
Clutch cable side
a. Slide the clutch cable cover.
b. Loosen the locknut “1”.
c. Turn the adjuster “2” in direction “a” or “b”
until the specified clutch lever free play is ob-
tained.
d. Tighten the locknut “1”.
e. Return the clutch cable cover to its original
position.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
EAS1SM9076ADJUSTING THE THROTTLE GRIP FREE
PLAY
TIP
Prior to adjusting throttle grip free play, the en-
gine idling speed should be adjusted.
1. Check:
• Throttle grip free play “a”
Out of specification  Regulate.
2. Adjust:
• Throttle grip free play
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
a. Loosen the locknut “1”.
b. Turn the adjuster “2” until the specified free
play is obtained.
c. Tighten the locknut.
EWA
WARNING
After adjusting the throttle grip free play,
turn the handlebar to the right and to the left
to ensure that this does not cause the en-
gine idling speed to change.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
Direction “a”
Clutch lever free play is increased.
Direction “b”
Clutch lever free play is decreased.
Locknut
4.3 Nm (0.43 m·kgf, 3.1 ft·lbf)
a b
1
T R..
1a
b
2
b
Throttle grip free play
3.0–5.0 mm (0.12–0.20 in)
Direction “a”
Throttle grip free play is increased.
Direction “b”
Throttle grip free play is decreased.
1 2
b
a

ENGINE
3-12
EAS1SM9077LUBRICATING THE THROTTLE CABLE
1. Remove:
• Cover (throttle cable cap) “1”
• Cover (grip cap) “2”
• Throttle grip cap “3”
2. Lubricate:
• Throttle cable end “a”
3. Install:
• Throttle grip cap
• Screw (throttle grip cap)
4. Install:
• Cover (grip cap)
• Cover (throttle cable cap)
EWA
WARNING
Check that the throttle grip moves smooth-
ly. If this does not move smoothly, correct
the installed positions.
EAS1SM9078CLEANING THE AIR FILTER ELEMENT
1. Remove:
• Fuel tank cap cover “1”
Refer to “FUEL TANK CAP” on page 1-19.
• Air filter case cover “2”
TIP
Loosen the quick fastener screw “3” and re-
move the air filter case cover.
2. Remove:
• Air filter mounting bolt “1”
• Air filter element “2”
• Air filter guide “3” (from the air filter element)
3. Wash:
• Air filter element
EWA
WARNING
Do not use gasoline or organic (acid/alka-
line) volatile oil for washing.
TIP
After washing the element with air filter cleaner
or kerosene, squeeze and dry it completely.
ECA
NOTICE
Do not twist the element when squeezing
the element. Recommended lubricant
Lithium-soap-based grease
Screw (throttle grip cap)
3.8 Nm (0.38 m·kgf, 2.8 ft·lbf)
T R..
1
2
3
3
3
13
2

ENGINE
3-13
4. Check:
• Air filter element
Damage  Replace.
5. Foam-air-filter oil or equivalent oil to the ele-
ment
TIP
Squeeze out the excess oil. Element should be
wet but not dripping.
6. Install:
• Air filter guide “1” (to the air filter element)
• Air filter element “2”
• Air filter mounting bolt “3”
7. Install:
• Air filter case cover “1”
TIP
Align the air filter case cover groove “a” with the
air filter case edge “b”.
8. Install:
• Fuel tank cap cover
EAS1SM9079CHECKING THE THROTTLE BODY JOINT
1. Check:
• Throttle body joint
Refer to “CHECKING THE THROTTLE
BODY JOINT” on page 7-8.
EAS1SM9080CHECKING THE BREATHER HOSES
1. Check:
• Breather hose “1”
Crack/damage  Replace.
Loose connection  Connect properly.
ECA14920
NOTICE
Make sure the cylinder head breather hose
is routed correctly.
EAS1SM9081CHECKING THE EXHAUST SYSTEM
1. Remove:
• Exhaust pipe protector
2. Check:
• Exhaust pipe 1
• Exhaust pipe 2
• Silencer
Crack/damage  Replace.
Refer to “ENGINE REMOVAL” on page 5-1.
• Exhaust gas
Leaks  Replace the gasket.
Refer to “ENGINE REMOVAL” on page 5-1.
3. Check:
• Tightening torques Oil application quantify
50 g
Air filter mounting bolt
2.0 Nm (0.20 m·kgf, 1.4 ft·lbf)
T R..
31
2
a
b 1
Exhaust pipe bolt 1 and nut “1”
20 Nm (2.0 m·kgf, 14 ft·lbf)
Exhaust pipe 1 and exhaust pipe
2 bolt “2”
12 Nm (1.2 m·kgf, 8.7 ft·lbf)
Exhaust pipe 2 and silencer bolt
“3”
12 Nm (1.2 m·kgf, 8.7 ft·lbf)
Silencer and silencer bracket bolt
“4”
30 Nm (3.0 m·kgf, 22 ft·lbf)
1
T R..

ENGINE
3-14
4. Install:
• Exhaust pipe protector
EAS1SM9082CHECKING THE FUEL LINE
1. Remove:
• Seat
• Side cover (left/right)
• Air scoop (left/right)
Refer to “GENERAL CHASSIS” on page 4-
1.
• Fuel tank
Refer to “FUEL TANK” on page 7-1.
2. Check:
• Fuel hose “1”
Crack/damage  Replace.
Loose connection  Connect properly.3. Install:
• Fuel tank
Refer to “FUEL TANK” on page 7-1.
• Air scoop (left/right)
• Seat
• Side cover (left/right)
Refer to “GENERAL CHASSIS” on page 4-
1.
EAS1SM9083CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Stand the vehicle upright on a level surface.
2. Start the engine, warm this up for 2–3 min-
utes, and then stop the engine and wait
about 5 minute.
3. Check:
• Oil level
The engine oil level should be between the
minimum level mark “a” and maximum level
mark “b”.
Below the minimum level mark  Add the
recommended engine oil to the proper level.
ECA33DD018
NOTICE
• Since engine oil also lubricates the clutch,
the wrong oil types or additives could
cause clutch slippage. Therefore, do not
add any chemical additives.
• Do not allow foreign material to enter the
crankcase. Exhaust pipe protector screw
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
LOCTITE®
2
1
4
3
T R..
1
Recommended brand
YAMALUBE
Type
SAE10W-40, SAE10W-50,
SAE15W-40, SAE20W-40 or
SAE20W-50
Recommended engine oil grade
API service SG type or higher,
JASO standard MA
a b

ENGINE
3-15
EAS1SM9084CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL
Stand the vehicle upright on a level surface.
1. Start the engine, warm this up for several
minutes, and then stop the engine and wait
about 5 minutes.
2. Place an oil pan under the drain bolt.
3. Remove:
• Oil filler cap “1”
• Drain bolt (with gasket) “2”
4. If the oil filter element is also to be replaced,
perform the following procedure.
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a. Remove the oil filter element cover “1” and
oil filter element “2”.
b. Replace the O-rings “3”.c. Install the new oil filter element and the oil fil-
ter element cover.
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5. To check the oil strainer, perform the follow-
ing procedure.
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a. Remove the oil strainer “1”.
b. Check the oil strainer.
Damage  Replace.
Clogging due to dirt  Wash with kerosene.
c. Replace the O-rings “2”.
d. Install the oil strainer.
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6. Install:
• Engine oil drain bolt
• Drain bolt
1
2
Oil filter element cover bolt
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
Oil strainer bolt
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
Drain bolt
20 Nm (2.0 m·kgf, 14 ft·lbf)
1
3
2
New
T R..
1
2New
T R..
New
T R..

ENGINE
3-16
7. Pour the specified amount of engine oil into
the oil filler cap hole.
8. Install:
• Oil filler cap
9. Check:
• Oil level
Refer to “CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL
LEVEL” on page 3-14.
10.Check:
• Engine oil pressure
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
a. Slightly loosen the oil pressure check bolt
“1”.
EWA
WARNING
When the engine is started with the check
bolt removed, oil will spout; therefore, al-
ways loosen it before the checkup.
Start the engine and keep it idling until oil
starts to seep from the oil pressure check
bolt.
EWA
WARNING
Always keep the engine idling speed during
the checkup without increasing the engine
speed.
ECA
NOTICE
If no engine oil seeps out after one minute,
immediately turn the engine off so it will not
seize.
b. If no engine oil seeps out, check the engine
oil for leaks, and the engine oil passage and
the oil pump for damage.
c. Check the oil pressure again.
d. Tighten the oil pressure check bolt.
▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲
EAS1SM9085ADJUSTING THE ENGINE IDLING SPEED
TIP
• Because the air pressure is lower at high alti-
tudes, the air-fuel mixture will become richer.
If the idling speed is low, turn the starter knob/
idle screw a few clicks counterclockwise to in-
crease the speed before the adjustment.
• Before adjusting the engine idling speed,
make sure that the air filter element is not
clogged, the engine compression is proper,
and the throttle grip free play is proper.
• Adjust the engine idling speed with the starter
knob/idle screw pushed in completely.
1. Start the engine, and warm this up until the
oil has reached the specified temperature.
2. Attach the pocket tester with temperature
probe “1” to the oil drain bolt. Engine oil quantity
Without oil filter element replace-
ment
0.71 L (0.75 US qt, 0.62 Imp.qt)
With oil filter element replace-
ment
0.73 L (0.77 US qt, 0.64 Imp.qt)
Quantity (disassembled)
0.90 L (0.95 US qt, 0.79 Imp.qt)
1
Oil pressure check bolt
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
Oil temperature
55–65 °C (131–149 °F)
T R..
1