Motorcycle Repair: Honda ATC 250cc, bikebandit com, honda atc

Question
It's about a 1986ish 250 Honda 3wheeler. We cannot find the dipstick to check the oil level. Do you know where this could be found, or how to know how much oil this particular bike holds. We don't want to ride it without the proper amount. Thank you.
Gayla From Las Vegas

Answer
Gayla,     Depends on if you have a ATC250R  below or

http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/honda-atv-atc250r-1986/o/m1910

ATC250E   below.

http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/honda-atv-atc250es-1986/o/m1903

If the engine is all fins and has a big fat exhaust pipe on it, plus you have to mix oil and gas, then it is a 250R 2-stroke engine. The only oil to check is the transmission oil. I think that there is a fill/drain plug on the side of the engine for that.

The 4-stroke ES model has valves, no mixing oil and gas for fuel.The oil filler is on the front of the right side crankcase, easily seen.

Four stroke only hold a couple of quarts, but I don't have the exact amount. You add oil until the crosshatch lines are wet. Check by dipping the stick into the crankcase and removing it to check. DO NOT screw it in then unscrew it to check the oil level, if that is what you have.

Bill Silver