hi, recently got an old 86 fourtrax 250. is there an oil filter on it? also what type of oil is used for the motor? thanks

 

Yes, there is a cartidge style internal filter. Use a non-energy conserving 10w -40 wet clutch compatible oil. API SERVICE SG OR HIGHER EXCEPT THOSE LABELED ENERGY CONSERVING, JASO T 903 MA. Try to find an owners or sevice manual they will help you maintain you machine. Congrats on the new ride!!

 

If you don't use a Honda oil filter then be careful you don't put the filter in backwards ...

 

And when you do use a Honda filter, pay attention to the stampings on the ends which indicate which side goes toward the engine and which side goes to the cover.

If you put it in backwards, it will block all oil flow to the engine.

On the right crankcase cover, there is a roundish cover with a little extension sticking out, held on by I think 3 small bolts. The oil filter is under that cover, with the open end of the filter facing the cover, and a spring behind it. It is sealed by a big O ring that goes around the bore the filter element fits in. A second smaller O ring fits where the little extension on the cover has an oil passage.

 

thanks for the info. i brought this wheeler back from the grave. i got it for $75.

 

Yes, it's easy to think the filter should go in with the closed end facing out - it doesn't - the open, oil flow end faces out. As above, if it's put in backwards, the oil flow is stopped and the top end of the engine blows, costs about a $1400.00 oil change, but only happens once!

 

Honda 400EX ATV Oil Change Insturctions - ATV Technical Articles

This is the 400EX, but the oil filter is generic Honda......

Use a motorcycle specific oil that is rated API SG/JASO MA. I recommend anything from Maxima. Probably 10W40 in summer. 15W50 if you ride where it is extremely hot. For winter 10W30, or 5W30 if you ride in the extreme cold.

 

You certainly can't beat the price you paid for it. Congrats on the ride.