2010 YAMAHA VMAX oil

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-15
67. Check the oil filler bolt gasket for
damage, and replace it if neces-
sary.
8. Install the oil filler bolt and its gas-
ket, and then tighten the bolt to the
specified torque.
9. Install the final gear case breather
cap by installing the washer and
bolt, and then tighten the bolt to the
specified torque.
10. Check the final gear case for oil
leakage. If oil is leaking, check for
the cause.
EAU20070
Coolant The coolant level should be checked
before each ride. In addition, the cool-
ant must be changed at the intervals
specified in the periodic maintenance
and lubrication chart.
EAU46690
To check the coolant level
1. Place the vehicle on a level sur-
face and hold it in an upright posi-
tion.TIP

The coolant level must be checked
on a cold engine since the level
varies with engine temperature.


Make sure that the vehicle is posi-
tioned straight up when checking
the coolant level. A slight tilt to the
side can result in a false reading.
2. Check the coolant level in the cool-
ant reservoir.TIPThe coolant should be between the
minimum and maximum level marks.
3. If the coolant is at or below the
minimum level mark, remove the
coolant reservoir cap guard by re-
moving the bolt, and then remove
the reservoir cap.
4. Add coolant to the maximum level
mark, and then install the reservoir
cap. WARNING! Remove only
the coolant reservoir cap. Never
attempt to remove the radiator
cap when the engine is hot.
[EWA15161]
NOTICE: If coolant is not
available, use distilled water or
soft tap water instead. Do not
Tightening torque:
Final gear oil filler bolt:
23 Nm (2.3 m·kgf, 17 ft·lbf)
Tightening torque:
Final gear case breather cap bolt:
10 Nm (1.0 m·kgf, 7.2 ft·lbf)
1. Coolant reservoir cap
2. Coolant reservoir cap guard
3. Bolt
4. Maximum level mark
5. Minimum level mark
2
1
5 4
3
U2S3E1E0.book Page 15 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-24
6
EAU46540
Checking the brake fluid level Front brake
Rear brake
Insufficient brake fluid may allow air to
enter the brake system, possibly caus-
ing it to become ineffective.Before riding, check that the brake fluid
is above the minimum level mark and
replenish if necessary. A low brake fluid
level may indicate worn brake pads
and/or brake system leakage. If the
brake fluid level is low, be sure to check
the brake pads for wear and the brake
system for leakage.
TIPThe rear brake fluid reservoir is located
under the passenger seat. (See page
3-25.)Observe these precautions:

When checking the fluid level,
make sure that the top of the brake
fluid reservoir is level.


Use only the recommended quality
brake fluid, otherwise the rubber
seals may deteriorate, causing
leakage and poor braking perfor-
mance.


Refill with the same type of brake
fluid. Mixing fluids may result in a
harmful chemical reaction and
lead to poor braking performance.


Be careful that water or dust does
not enter the brake fluid reservoir
when refilling. Water will signifi-
cantly lower the boiling point of the
fluid and may result in vapor lock,
and dirt may clog the ABS hydrau-
lic unit valves.


Brake fluid may deteriorate paint-
ed surfaces or plastic parts. Al-
ways clean up spilled fluid
immediately.


As the brake pads wear, it is nor-
mal for the brake fluid level to grad-
ually go down. However, if the
brake fluid level goes down sud-
denly, have a Yamaha dealer
check the cause.
1. Minimum level mark
1. Minimum level mark
1
1
Recommended brake fluid:
DOT 4
U2S3E1E0.book Page 24 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-25
6
EAU22751
Changing the brake and
clutch fluids Have a Yamaha dealer change the
brake and clutch fluids at the intervals
specified in the TIP after the periodic
maintenance and lubrication chart. In
addition, have the oil seals of the brake
and clutch master cylinders and cali-
pers as well as the brake and clutch
hoses replaced at the intervals listed
below or whenever they are damaged
or leaking.

Oil seals: Replace every two
years.


Brake and clutch hoses: Replace
every four years.
EAU23101
Checking and lubricating the
cables The operation of all control cables and
the condition of the cables should be
checked before each ride, and the ca-
bles and cable ends should be lubricat-
ed if necessary. If a cable is damaged
or does not move smoothly, have a
Yamaha dealer check or replace it.
WARNING! Damage to the outer
sheath may interfere with proper ca-
ble operation and will cause the in-
ner cable to rust. Replace a
damaged cable as soon as possible
to prevent unsafe conditions.
[EWA10721]EAU23112
Checking and lubricating the
throttle grip and cable The operation of the throttle grip should
be checked before each ride. In addi-
tion, the cable should be lubricated by a
Yamaha dealer at the intervals speci-
fied in the periodic maintenance chart.
Recommended lubricant:
Engine oil
U2S3E1E0.book Page 25 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-28
6
EAU23272
Checking the front fork The condition and operation of the front
fork must be checked as follows at the
intervals specified in the periodic main-
tenance and lubrication chart.
To check the condition
Check the inner tubes for scratches,
damage and excessive oil leakage.
To check the operation
1. Place the vehicle on a level sur-
face and hold it in an upright posi-
tion. WARNING! To avoid injury,
securely support the vehicle so
there is no danger of it falling
over.
[EWA10751]
2. While applying the front brake,
push down hard on the handlebars
several times to check if the front
fork compresses and rebounds
smoothly.
NOTICE
ECA10590
If any damage is found or the front
fork does not operate smoothly,
have a Yamaha dealer check or re-
pair it.
EAU23283
Checking the steering Worn or loose steering bearings may
cause danger. Therefore, the operation
of the steering must be checked as fol-
lows at the intervals specified in the pe-
riodic maintenance and lubrication
chart.
1. Place a stand under the engine to
raise the front wheel off the
ground. (See page 6-37 for more
information.) WARNING! To
avoid injury, securely support
the vehicle so there is no danger
of it falling over.
[EWA10751]
2. Hold the lower ends of the front
fork legs and try to move them for-
ward and backward. If any free
play can be felt, have a Yamaha
dealer check or repair the steering.
U2S3E1E0.book Page 28 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

PERIODIC MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
6-33
6avoid causing extensive dam-
age to the electrical system and
possibly a fire.
[EWA15131]
3. Turn the key to “ON” and turn on
the electrical circuit in question to
check if the device operates.
4. If the fuse immediately blows
again, have a Yamaha dealer
check the electrical system.
EAU46461
Replacing the headlight bulb This model is equipped with a quartz
bulb headlight. If the headlight bulb
burns out, replace it as follows.NOTICE
ECA10650
Take care not to damage the follow-
ing parts:

Headlight bulb
Do not touch the glass part of
the headlight bulb to keep it free
from oil, otherwise the transpar-
ency of the glass, the luminosity
of the bulb, and the bulb life will
be adversely affected. Thor-
oughly clean off any dirt and fin-
gerprints on the headlight bulb
using a cloth moistened with al-
cohol or thinner.


Headlight lens
Do not affix any type of tinted
film or stickers to the headlight
lens.
Do not use a headlight bulb of a
wattage higher than specified.
Specified fuses:
Main fuse:
50.0 A
Ignition fuse:
20.0 A
Parking lighting fuse:
7.5 A
Signaling system fuse:
7.5 A
Headlight fuse:
15.0 A
Radiator fan fuse:
20.0 A
Sub radiator fan fuse:
7.5 A
Fuel injection system fuse:
15.0 A
ABS control unit fuse:
7.5 A
ABS motor fuse:
30.0 A
ABS solenoid fuse:
15.0 A
Backup fuse:
7.5 A
Electronic throttle valve fuse:
7.5 A
U2S3E1E0.book Page 33 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE
7-1
7
EAU37833
Matte color caution NOTICE
ECA15192
Some models are equipped with
matte colored finished parts. Be
sure to consult a Yamaha dealer for
advice on what products to use be-
fore cleaning the vehicle. Using a
brush, harsh chemical products or
cleaning compounds when cleaning
these parts will scratch or damage
their surface. Wax also should not
be applied to any matte colored fin-
ished parts.
EAU46410
Care While the open design of a motorcycle
reveals the attractiveness of the tech-
nology, it also makes it more vulnera-
ble. Rust and corrosion can develop
even if high-quality components are
used. A rusty exhaust pipe may go un-
noticed on a car, however, it detracts
from the overall appearance of a motor-
cycle. Frequent and proper care does
not only comply with the terms of the
warranty, but it will also keep your mo-
torcycle looking good, extend its life
and optimize its performance.
Before cleaning
1. Cover the muffler outlets with a
plastic bag after the engine has
cooled down.
2. Make sure that all caps and covers
as well as all electrical couplers
and connectors, including the
spark plug caps, are tightly in-
stalled.
3. Remove extremely stubborn dirt,
like oil burnt onto the crankcase,
with a degreasing agent and a
brush, but never apply such prod-ucts onto seals, gaskets and wheel
axles. Always rinse the dirt and de-
greaser off with water.
Cleaning
NOTICE
ECA10772


Avoid using strong acidic wheel
cleaners, especially on spoked
wheels. If such products are
used on hard-to-remove dirt, do
not leave the cleaner on the af-
fected area any longer than in-
structed. Also, thoroughly rinse
the area off with water, immedi-
ately dry it, and then apply a cor-
rosion protection spray.


Improper cleaning can damage
plastic parts (such as cowlings,
panels, windshields, headlight
lenses, meter lenses, etc.) and
the mufflers. Use only a soft,
clean cloth or sponge with wa-
ter to clean plastic. However, if
the plastic parts cannot be thor-
oughly cleaned with water, di-
luted mild detergent with water
may be used. Be sure to rinse
U2S3E1E0.book Page 1 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE
7-3
7


Never use compounds or other
special treatments to clean the tita-
nium mufflers, as they will remove
the finish on the outer surface of
the mufflers.


Even the smallest amounts of oil,
such as from oily towels or finger-
prints, will leave stains on the tita-
nium mufflers, which can be
removed with a mild detergent.


Note that the thermally induced
discoloring of the portion of the ex-
haust pipe leading into the titanium
mufflers is normal and cannot be
removed.
After cleaning
1. Dry the motorcycle with a chamois
or an absorbing cloth.
2. Immediately dry the drive chain
and lubricate it to prevent it from
rusting.
3. Use a chrome polish to shine
chrome, aluminum and stainless-
steel parts.4. To prevent corrosion, it is recom-
mended to apply a corrosion pro-
tection spray on all metal,
including chrome- and nickel-plat-
ed, surfaces.
5. Use spray oil as a universal clean-
er to remove any remaining dirt.
6. Touch up minor paint damage
caused by stones, etc.
7. Wax all painted surfaces.
8. Let the motorcycle dry completely
before storing or covering it.
WARNING
EWA11131
Contaminants on the brakes or tires
can cause loss of control.

Make sure that there is no oil or
wax on the brakes or tires.


If necessary, clean the brake
discs and brake linings with a
regular brake disc cleaner or ac-
etone, and wash the tires with
warm water and a mild deter-
gent. Before riding at higher
speeds, test the motorcycle’s
braking performance and cor-
nering behavior.
NOTICE
ECA10800


Apply spray oil and wax spar-
ingly and make sure to wipe off
any excess.


Never apply oil or wax to any
rubber and plastic parts, but
treat them with a suitable care
product.


Avoid using abrasive polishing
compounds as they will wear
away the paint.
TIP

Consult a Yamaha dealer for ad-
vice on what products to use.


Washing, rainy weather or humid
climates can cause the headlight
lens to fog. Turning the headlight
on for a short period of time will
help remove the moisture from the
lens.
U2S3E1E0.book Page 3 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM

MOTORCYCLE CARE AND STORAGE
7-4
7
EAU26242
Storage Short-term
Always store your motorcycle in a cool,
dry place and, if necessary, protect it
against dust with a porous cover.NOTICE
ECA10810


Storing the motorcycle in a
poorly ventilated room or cover-
ing it with a tarp, while it is still
wet, will allow water and humid-
ity to seep in and cause rust.


To prevent corrosion, avoid
damp cellars, stables (because
of the presence of ammonia)
and areas where strong chemi-
cals are stored.
Long-term
Before storing your motorcycle for sev-
eral months:
1. Follow all the instructions in the
“Care” section of this chapter.
2. Fill up the fuel tank and add fuel
stabilizer (if available) to prevent
the fuel tank from rusting and the
fuel from deteriorating.3. Perform the following steps to pro-
tect the cylinders, piston rings, etc.
from corrosion.
a. Remove the spark plug caps
and spark plugs.
b. Pour a teaspoonful of engine oil
into each spark plug bore.
c. Install the spark plug caps onto
the spark plugs, and then place
the spark plugs on the cylinder
head so that the electrodes are
grounded. (This will limit spark-
ing during the next step.)
d. Turn the engine over several
times with the starter. (This will
coat the cylinder walls with oil.)
WARNING! To prevent dam-
age or injury from sparking,
make sure to ground the
spark plug electrodes while
turning the engine over.
[EWA10951]
e. Remove the spark plug caps
from the spark plugs, and then
install the spark plugs and the
spark plug caps.4. Lubricate all control cables and the
pivoting points of all levers and
pedals as well as of the side-
stand/centerstand.
5. Check and, if necessary, correct
the tire air pressure, and then lift
the motorcycle so that both of its
wheels are off the ground. Alterna-
tively, turn the wheels a little every
month in order to prevent the tires
from becoming degraded in one
spot.
6. Cover the muffler outlets with plas-
tic bags to prevent moisture from
entering them.
7. Remove the battery and fully
charge it. Store it in a cool, dry
place and charge it once a month.
Do not store the battery in an ex-
cessively cold or warm place [less
than 0 °C (30 °F) or more than 30
°C (90 °F)]. For more information
on storing the battery, see page
6-29.
TIPMake any necessary repairs before
storing the motorcycle.
U2S3E1E0.book Page 4 Friday, August 7, 2009 1:06 PM