I have just taken ownership of a very clean and tidy 1982 Yamaha DT250MX.  I wanted to top up the autolube oil tank, which is behind a plastic side panel. But once the panel is removed you can't access the filler - the seat needs to be removed I think.  Apparently this is two bolts securing the seat to the frame. Is this correct? I need to do this every time I top up the oil? (175 miles I think).

Also, I'd like to have the bike given a good look over and service for safety, etc. New brake shoes, cables, have the carb checked.  What else should I do, with a "new" 80's DT250?

The electrics are weak (no horn, turn signals)  is this because the bike hasn't been used for a while?  I'd change the battery I think anyway, just to be sure (any recommendations for this?)

I'm really looking forward to riding this. I insured it today.  All is ready but the tank is on fumes.  Tomorrow I will give it a run down the road.  

But ideally I'd like to know that it's all working (oil, fuel, brakes, etc.) and maybe get throttle, clutch cable replaced as a matter of course.

I'd really appreciated any comments, advice and tips!
Thanks,
Daren.

 from near Salisbury, Wiltshire.

Are you in the UK (spelling suggests you are!).

Definitely change over the brake shoes.

I'd check the cables over first before changing them. If they operate ok and there are no signs of fraying, then I'd leave as is.

If the electrics are the same as on earlier models, then horn and indicators work off the battery, so a poor battery could explain lack of function.

Is it a runner, and was it run regularly until fairly recently? If yes, and it starts, idles and revs out ok, then I wouldn't faff with the carb. 

Oil pump operation can be visually checked by observing the jobby with a nut on the end, on the right side of the pump (behind the small cover at the front of the right side crank case cover). You should be able to see small pumping actions when the engine is running. The output can be checked, but you'd need to read through the service manual for instructions.

No idea on topping up the oil tank!

US stopped getting that model in 1979.  The oil tank is on a "hinge" with a wing nut (technically a wing bolt) near the bottom rear of the tank securing it from swinging out.  Unscrew the bolt and the rear of the oil tank pivots out enough to add oil. 

Not sure if 1982 was the same?  In any case, I'm certain Yamaha made it easy.  You will not have to unbolt the seat to add oil unless someone has modified your bike somehow.  

That's great, thank you. (Yes,I am in the UK. Dorking, Surrey)  It starts easily and idles well.  It was on reserve when I got it.  I'm wondering if riding it would charge the battery (or am I being an idiot).  Nevertheless I will see if I can get a replacement from Yamparts.  I think a trickle charger might help? So if you've any tips on those?  

The cables operate well but I thought replacing them would make them "smoother".  I will take your advice about the carb - it seems to rum okay.

I will still get the bike looked over and given a "service" once I find someone who will look at it. (I have tried).

But for now, it is "spanners out" it seems, even to top up the oil by removing the seat!!?  Very "retro".

We posted at the same time.  Seat should not need to be removed, tank pivots.  

AH!  That would make more sense!! I will take a look and see if I can see anything resembling this.  Thanks very much!

Ooh, the thought of the FP office at Pixham End still brings me out in a cold sweat! 

FP took over our company in the mid 1980s and I spent a few weeks there for training. I stayed at the Punchbowl - is that still there?

Definitely change your Brake Shoes as AL stated also check or change your transmission oil Greetings from Tennessee USA 

Regarding how to top up the oil tank, I removed the plastic cover on the left side of the bike to reveal the battery and oil tank. The filler cap is right under the seat so impossible to fill. As advised here, the oil tank is supposed to "swivel" out, so that you can then fill it.

I have tried to find a "wing nut" but can't see one. Does anyone know where exactly I should look for the nut (which might have been changed for a normal nut I guess).

Thanks for any more help!!
- Daren

I'm trying to figure out how to add 2-stroke oil to the Autolube tank.  I can see it behind the right plastic cover but the filler is tight under the seat.

I think that I need to remove the seat to access the filler.  Is this correct please?
Thanks,
Daren.