Suzuki LT-A400/F 2006 User manual

99011-38F56-013
LT-A400/F
Part No. 99011-38F56-013
September, 2006 EN, FR, SW, SP, DA
TK
LT-A400/F
Printed in USA
300 TAKATSUKA, HAMAMATSU, JAPAN
OWNER’S MANUAL
MANUEL DU PROPRIETAIRE
HANDBOK
MANUAL DEL PROPIETARIO
BRUGERVEJLEDNING
K7
This owner’s manual contains
important safety information.
Please read it carefully.
Never allow anyone under 16
years old to ride this ATV.
Ce ’Manuel du propriétaire contient
des informations importantes
concernant la sécurité.
Le lire soigneusement.
Ne jamais autoriser les enfants
âgés de moins de 16 ans à
piloter ce V.T.T.
Denna bruksanvisning innehåller
viktiga säkerhetsinformationer.
Läs noggrant igenom den.
Låt ingen person under 16 års
ålder köra denna ATV-vagn.
Este manual del usuario contiene
información de seguridad importante.
Léalo detenidamente.
No permita que nadie menor de 16
años de edad conduzca esta ATV.
Denne brugervejledning indeholder
vigtige sikkerhedsoplysninger.
Læs den omhyggeligt.
Lad aldrig børn på under 16 år
køre på denne ATV.
25 mm25 mm
No.3534 LT-A400/F 99011-38F56-013 2/1No.3534 LT-A400/F 99011-38F56-013 2/1 DIC184 DIC157

LT-A400/F
OWNER’S MANUAL
ENGLISH
ENGLISH
This manual should be considered a permanent part of the vehi-
cle and should remain with the vehicle when resold or otherwise
transferred to a new owner or operator. The manual contains
important safety information and instructions which should be
read carefully before operating the vehicle.

IMPORTANT
 WARNING/CAUTION/ NOTE
Please read this manual and follow its
instructions carefully. To emphasize
special information, the symbol 
and the words WARNING or CAU-
TION and NOTE have special mean-
ings. Pay special attention to the
messages highlighted by these sig-
nal words:
NOTE: Indicates special information
to make maintenance easier or
instructions clearer.
FOREWORD
• This owner’s manual contains
important safety and maintenance
information. Read it carefully
before you ride your new ATV.
Failure to follow the warnings con-
tained in this manual can result in
INJURY or DEATH.
• Do not allow anyone under age 16
to ride this ATV.
• It is important that this manual
remain with the vehicle when you
sell it. The next owner will need
this manual also. Store the
owner’s manual in the LT-A400/
F’s tail box.
© COPYRIGHT SUZUKI MOTOR
CORPORATION 2006
WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard that
could result in death or injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potential hazard that
could result in vehicle damage.

NOTICE TO OWNER’S
AN ATV IS NOT A TOY AND CAN
BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. An
ATV handles differently from other
vehicles including motorcycles and
cars. A collision or rollover can occur
quickly, even during routine maneu-
vers such as turning and driving on
hills or over obstacles, if you fail to
take proper precautions.
SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH can
result if you do not follow these
instructions:
• Read this manual and all labels
carefully and follow the operating
procedures described.
• Always follow this age recommen-
dation:
–A child under 16 years old
should never operate an ATV
with engine size greater than 90
cc.
•Never carry a passenger on an
ATV.
• Always avoid operating an ATV on
paved surfaces, including side-
walks, paths, parking lots, drive-
ways, and streets.
• Never operate an ATV on any
public street, road or highway,
even a dirt or gravel one.
• Never operate an ATV without
wearing an approved motorcycle
helmet that fits properly. You
should also wear eye protection
(goggles or face shield), gloves,
boots, long-sleeved shirt or jacket,
and long pants.
• Never consume alcohol or drugs
before or while operating this ATV.
• Never operate at excessive
speeds. Always go at a speed that
is proper for the terrain, visibility
and operating conditions, your
skills and experience.
• Never attempt wheelies, jumps, or
other stunts.
• Always inspect your ATV each
time you use it to make sure it is in
safe operating condition. Always
follow the inspection and mainte-
nance procedures and schedules
described in this manual.
• Always keep both hands on the
handlebars and both feet on the
footrests of the ATV during opera-
tion.
• Always go slowly and be extra
careful when operating on unfa-
miliar terrain. Always be alert to
changing terrain conditions when
operating the ATV.
• Never operate on excessively
rough, slippery or loose terrain
until you have learned and prac-
ticed the skills necessary to con-
trol the ATV on such terrain.
Always be especially cautious on
these kinds of terrain.
• Always follow proper procedures
for turning as described in this
manual. Practice turning at low
speeds before attempting to turn
at faster speeds. Do not turn at
excessive speed.
• Never operate the ATV on hills too
steep for the ATV or for your abili-
ties. Practice on smaller hills
before attempting larger hills.

• Always follow proper procedures
for climbing hills as described in
this manual. Check the terrain
carefully before you start up any
hill. Never climb hills with exces-
sively slippery or loose surfaces.
Shift your weight forward. Never
open the throttle suddenly. Never
go over the top of any hill at high
speed.
• Always follow proper procedures
for going down hills and for brak-
ing on hills as described in this
manual. Check the terrain care-
fully before you start down any hill.
Shift your weight backward. Never
go down a hill at high speed.
Avoid going down a hill at an
angle that would cause the vehicle
to lean sharply to one side. Go
straight down the hill where possi-
ble.
• Always follow proper procedures
for crossing the side of a hill as
described in this manual. Avoid
hills with excessively slippery or
loose surfaces. Shift your weight
to the uphill side of the ATV. Never
attempt to turn the ATV around on
any hill until you have mastered
the turning technique described in
this manual on level ground. Avoid
crossing the side of a steep hill if
possible.
• Always use proper procedures if
you stall or roll backwards when
climbing a hill. To avoid stalling,
maintain a steady speed when
climbing a hill. If you stall or roll
backwards, follow the special pro-
cedure for braking described in
this manual. Dismount on the
uphill side or to a side if pointed
straight uphill. Turn the ATV
around and remount, following the
procedure described in this man-
ual.
• Always check for obstacles before
operating in a new area. Never
attempt to operate over large
obstacles, such as large rocks or
fallen trees. Always follow proper
procedures when operating over
obstacles as described in this
manual.
• Always be careful when skidding
or sliding. Learn to safely control
skidding or sliding by practicing at
low speeds and on level, smooth
terrain. On extremely slippery sur-
faces, such as ice, go slowly and
be very cautious in order to
reduce the chance of skidding or
sliding out of control.
• Never operate an ATV in fast flow-
ing water or in water deeper than
that specified in this manual.
Remember that wet brakes may
have reduced stopping ability. Test
your brakes after leaving water. If
necessary, apply them several
times to let friction dry out the lin-
ings.
• Always be sure there are no
obstacles or people behind you
when you operate in reverse.
When it is safe to proceed in
reverse, go slowly.

• Always use the size and type tires
specified in this manual. Always
maintain proper tire pressure as
described in this manual.
• Never modify an ATV through
improper installation or use of
accessories.
• Never exceed the stated load
capacity for an ATV. Cargo should
be properly distributed and
securely attached. Reduce speed
and follow instructions in this man-
ual for carrying cargo or pulling a
trailer. Allow greater distance for
braking.
WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard that
could result in injury or death.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
FUEL AND ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATION
CONTROLS, EQUIPMENT AND ADJUSTMENTS
RIDING YOUR ATV
ACCESSORY USE AND VEHICLE LOADING
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
TROUBLESHOOTING
PREPARATION FOR WINTER RIDING
TRANSPORTING
CLEANING PROCEDURE AND STORAGE PROCEDURE
CONSUMER INFORMATION
SPECIFICATIONS
INDEX

1-1
1
FUEL AND ENGINE OIL
RECOMMENDATION
FUEL .................................................................................................................... 1-2
ENGINE OIL ......................................................................................................... 1-2
DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL ................................................................................. 1-3

1-2
FUEL AND ENGINE OIL
RECOMMENDATION
FUEL
Suzuki recommends that you use
unleaded gasoline containing no alco-
hol. Make sure it is rated at least 87
pump octane ((R+M)/2 method). You
may also use regular leaded gasoline
containing no alcohol.
NOTE: Unleaded gasoline will extend
spark plug life.
Blends of unleaded gasoline and eth-
anol (grain alcohol), also known as
gasohol, are commercially available
in some areas. You can use these
blends, provided they contain no
more than 5% ethanol. Be sure the
gasoline-ethanol blend you use is
rated at least 87 pump octane, as rec-
ommended for unleaded gasoline
without any alcohol.
DO NOT USE GASOLINES CON-
TAINING METHANOL (methyl or
wood alcohol), even if they contain
co-solvents and corrosion inhibitors
for methanol. Fuel system damage
and performance problems resulting
from the use of such fuels are not the
responsibility of Suzuki. The limited
warranty may not cover these prob-
lems. Some states require fuel suppli-
ers to label pumps which dispense
gasoline/alcohol blends containing
certain percentages of alcohol. These
labels may provided enough informa-
tion for you to determine if the fuel is
appropriate. In other states, pumps
may not be clearly labeled about the
content or type of alcohol. If you are
unsure about the content or type of
alcohol in the fuel you buy, check with
the service station operator.
ENGINE OIL
Oil quality is a major contributor to
your engine’s performance and life.
Always select good quality engine oil.
Use oil with an API (American Petro-
leum Institute) classification of SF/SG
or SH/SJ, or with a JASO classifica-
tion of MA.
API: American Petroleum Institute
JASO: Japanese Automobile Stan-
dards Organization
SAE Engine Oil Viscosity
Suzuki recommends the use of SAE
10W-40 engine oil. If SAE 10W-40
engine oil is not available, select an
alternative according to the following
chart.
NOTE: In very cold weather (below
14°F (–10°C)), use SAE 5W-30 for
good starting and smooth operation.
SAE API JASO
10W-40 SF or SG –
10W-40 SH or SJ MA

1-3
JASO T903
The JASO T903 standard is an index
to select engine oils for 4-stroke
motorcycle and ATV engines. Motor-
cycle and ATV engines lubricate
clutch and transmission gears with
engine oil. JASO T903 specifies per-
formance requirements for motorcy-
cle and ATV clutches and
transmissions.
There are two classes, MA and MB.
The oil container shows the classifica-
tion as follows.
1Code number of oil sales company
2Oil classification
Energy Conserving
Suzuki does not recommend the use
of “ENERGY CONSERVING” oils.
Some engine oils which have an API
classification of SH or higher have an
“ENERGY CONSERVING” indication
in the API classification doughnut
mark. These oils can affect engine life
and clutch performance.
Not recommended Recommended
DIFFERENTIAL GEAR OIL
Use a SAE 90 hypoid gear oil which is
rated GL-5 under the API classifica-
tion system. If you normally operate
the vehicle where ambient tempera-
ture is below 0°C (32°F), use a SAE
80 hypoid gear oil.
E
N
E
R
G
Y
C
O
N
S
E
R
V
I
N
G
A
P
I
S
E
R
V
I
C
E
S
J
SAE
10W-40
A
P
I
S
E
R
V
I
C
E
S
J
SAE
10W-40

2-1
2
CONTROLS, EQUIPMENT AND
ADJUSTMENTS
LOCATION OF PARTS ....................................................................................... 2-2
KEY ...................................................................................................................... 2-5
IGNITION SWITCH .............................................................................................. 2-5
SPEEDOMETER AND INDICATOR LIGHTS ...................................................... 2-6
RANGE LEVER ................................................................................................... 2-7
SELECTION LEVER (LT-A400F) ........................................................................ 2-8
LEFT HANDLEBAR ............................................................................................. 2-9
CHOKE LEVER ................................................................................................. 2-10
HORN SWITCH (Sweden) ................................................................................. 2-10
RIGHT HANDLEBAR ........................................................................................ 2-10
THROTTLE LIMITER ......................................................................................... 2-11
REAR BRAKE PEDAL ...................................................................................... 2-11
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH (Sweden) ......................................................... 2-11
FUEL VALVE ..................................................................................................... 2-12
RECOIL STARTER ............................................................................................ 2-13
FUEL TANK CAP .............................................................................................. 2-13
FUEL GAUGE .................................................................................................... 2-15
SEAT LOCK ....................................................................................................... 2-15
FLAG BRACKET ............................................................................................... 2-16
TAIL BOX ........................................................................................................... 2-16

2-2
CONTROLS, EQUIPMENT AND ADJUSTMENTS
LOCATION OF PARTS
1Rear brake lever
2Left handlebar switches
3Choke lever
4Speedometer and indicator lights
5Ignition switch
6Front brake fluid reservoir
7Front brake lever
8Fuel gauge
9Fuel tank cap
0Range lever
ASelection lever
BThrottle lever

2-3
CFuel valve
DSeat lock
ERecoil starter
FFootrests
GTa i l b o x

2-4
HRear brake pedal

2-5
KEY
Two keys come with this vehicle. Keep
the spare key in a safe place. An iden-
tifying number is stamped on the
keys. Use this number when making a
replacement key.
Please write down your key number in
the box provided for your future refer-
ence.
IGNITION SWITCH
The ignition switch has three posi-
tions.
“OFF” position
All electrical circuits are cut off. The
engine will not start. The key can be
removed.
“ON” position
The ignition circuit is on and the
engine can be started. The key can-
not be removed in this position.
“(LIGHTS)” position
The ignition circuit is complete and
the headlight and taillight turn on. The
key cannot be removed in this posi-
tion.
WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard that
could result in injury or death.
Key No.:
CAUTION
Leaving the ignition switch in the
“
 ” position for a long time can
damage the ATV’s battery.
The battery will run down if the
lights are no for a long time when
the engine is not running.
Always leave the ignition switch in
the “OFF” position when not oper-
ating the ATV.

2-6
SPEEDOMETER AND INDICATOR
LIGHTS
Speedometer 1
The speedometer shows approximate
vehicle speed.
Odometer 2
The odometer shows the total dis-
tance that the vehicle has been rid-
den.
Trip Meter 3
The trip meter is a resettable odome-
ter. It can be used to show the dis-
tance traveled on short trips or
between fuel stops. Turning the knob
4counterclockwise will reset the trip
meter to zero.
Reverse Indicator 5
A red light will come on when the
transmission is in reverse gear.
Neutral Indicator 6
A green light will come on when the
transmission is in neutral. The light
will go out when you shift into any
gear other than neutral.
High Beam Indicator 7(Sweden)
A blue light will come on when the
headlight beam is turned on.
Oil temperature Indicator 8
A red light will come on when:
• The engine oil gets too hot while
operating.
• The electric starter is pushed for
starting the engine. This is for
checking light bulb.
NOTE:
• High engine speed, low vehicle
speeds, or heavy load can
increase engine oil temperature.
Decrease engine speed, reduce
load and select an appropriate
transmission gear to lower the
temperature.
• Debris or mud in front of the
engine or packed between the
engine fins can reduce cooling
ability. Remove any debris or mud
preventing any debris or mud pre-
venting air flow to the engine.
CAUTION
Operating the ATV while the oil
temperature indicator is lit can
damage your ATV.
Continued operation of the ATV
with high engine oil temperature
may result in engine damage or
premature wear.
If the oil temperature indicator
comes on, stop the engine and
allow it to cool before restarting.
Refer to the note below.

2-7
RANGE LEVER
Your LT-A400/F is equipped with a
dual-range automatic transmission
with reverse.
Select a range position according to
how you intend to use the vehicle.
H (high range):
Normal riding with light loads.
L (low range):
Carrying heavy loads or trailer towing.
Compared to HIGH range, this posi-
tion provides lower speed and greater
torque to the wheels.
R (reverse):
Select this position to operate vehicle
in reverse.
To operate the range lever:
1. Release the throttle lever.
2. Stop the vehicle completely and
keep the brakes applied.
3. Select a range position according
to these procedures:
a.N (Neutral) H (High)
Push the knob in and move the
range lever from N to H. Move
the lever from H to N without
pushing the knob.
NOTE: The range lever will not move
between N and H if the knob is
pushed in.
b. H (High) L (Low)
Push the knob in and move the
lever from H to L. Move the lever
from L to H without pushing the
knob.
c. N (Neutral) R (Reverse)
Push the knob in and move the
lever from N to R. Move the
lever from R to N without push-
ing the knob.
NOTE: Shift the range lever into neu-
tral before turning off the engine when
parking the vehicle on an incline. If
you parked on an incline with range
lever in H, L or R position, vehicle
weight will make it difficult to shift into
neutral.
L
H
R
N
WARNING
Operating the range lever when
the ATV is moving can be hazard-
ous.
If you shift into reverse gear when
the LT-A400/F is moving, it could
stop suddenly, throwing you from
the ATV. If you shift from high
range to low range when the LT-
A400/F is moving, it could reduce
speed suddenly, throwing you
from the ATV.
Always come to a complete stop
and keep the brakes applied while
shifting.