best used sled under $1000

[Joa]

Looking for all of your recommendations for the best bang for the buck
snowmobile that can generally be found for under $1000 (preferably
closer to around $500 but I'll pay a little more if it's really
necessary to get what I'm after.)

Here's the details...

1. Going to be used on the farm (90 acres) for general family fun-
pulling kids behind on sleds, zooming across the hayfield, cruising on
the roads, etc.

2. Would like to have a good "zoom" factor when loaded with a 270#
dad and a 50# daughter. IOW it should go fast enough on level ground
to "feel" fast if you know what I mean. So in a nutshell it can't be
a total underpowered dog.

3. Should be fairly reliable (though I'm very mechanic oriented) and
be easy to get parts for.

So what should I look for? Is there a minimum length track that I
need for my weight? Minimum size motor to go as fast as I would like?
Do I have to have reverse? Electric start? Etc.

One more thing... are these generally best found in the local
classifieds or should I go to a used-sled type store and if so what
time of the year is the best to get the best deal?

Thanks folks!

Joe

[Matt Mead]

Post by Joa
Looking for all of your recommendations for the best bang for the buck
snowmobile that can generally be found for under $1000 (preferably
closer to around $500 but I'll pay a little more if it's really
necessary to get what I'm after.)

You can't go wrong with a Polaris Indy of nearly any vintage. A fan
cooled Trail or 500 liquid would be just fine.

A Yamaha Phazer is also a great choice. I also wouldn't run from a
late 80s to early 90s twin cylinder Ski Doo Formula model.

I'd set a target price of about $800 for any of these machines in
reasonably good shape, but you will get the most by pushing right up
to (and bit over) your $1000 ceiling.

Matt
Doo owner
Manta owner

[Gary C]

I'd agree with Matt.

This one sure is in nice shape
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3656201027&category=26356

Post by Matt Mead

Post by Joa
Looking for all of your recommendations for the best bang for the buck
snowmobile that can generally be found for under $1000 (preferably
closer to around $500 but I'll pay a little more if it's really
necessary to get what I'm after.)

You can't go wrong with a Polaris Indy of nearly any vintage. A fan
cooled Trail or 500 liquid would be just fine.
A Yamaha Phazer is also a great choice. I also wouldn't run from a
late 80s to early 90s twin cylinder Ski Doo Formula model.
I'd set a target price of about $800 for any of these machines in
reasonably good shape, but you will get the most by pushing right up
to (and bit over) your $1000 ceiling.
Matt
Doo owner
Manta owner

[Jim Williamson]

Post by Gary C
I'd agree with Matt.
This one sure is in nice shape
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3656201027&category=26356

Ahhh - basically the sled I have. Light and lively and I thoroughly enjoy
it.

[Gary C]

I own a 1983 SRV just like that one on ebay, Jim.
Now she's retired and on social sercurity, a back up sled.
Old Betsy never let me down.

Post by Gary C

Post by Gary C
I'd agree with Matt.
This one sure is in nice shape

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3656201027&category=2635

6

Post by Gary C
Ahhh - basically the sled I have. Light and lively and I thoroughly enjoy
it.

[Fx199]

Post by Gary C
I own a 1983 SRV just like that one on ebay, Jim.
Now she's retired and on social sercurity, a back up sled.
Old Betsy never let me down.

Like I said before...amazing how many old Yamahas are still up to the task of
running and not breaking down. I am not saying they are the most exciting
sleds, or that people that drive newer sleds of any make don't have better
sleds. More of a comment on the durability.

[Doug Gearhead]

As an example... I just sold an '89 Yammi XLV 540 for $750 (cdn). It needed
a bit of work, but it was a 2-up and it ran very well. If you are looking
for examples, you could look at www.trader.ca.... it's Ontario's place to
buy and sell things you can drive, and a great reference tool.

Post by Fx199

Post by Gary C
I own a 1983 SRV just like that one on ebay, Jim.
Now she's retired and on social sercurity, a back up sled.
Old Betsy never let me down.

Like I said before...amazing how many old Yamahas are still up to the task of
running and not breaking down. I am not saying they are the most exciting
sleds, or that people that drive newer sleds of any make don't have better
sleds. More of a comment on the durability.

[Fx199]

Post by Matt Mead
A Yamaha Phazer is also a great choice. I also wouldn't run from a
late 80s to early 90s twin cylinder Ski Doo Formula model.

I would, I would run from a late 80's skidoo.
Been there, done that, learned my lesson.
Realistically, if you don't want to fix it up all the time, you need to spend a
little more than 500 dollars LOL I'd go Yamaha, then Polaris

[tkranz]

You get what you pay for. I agree with the others that you need to spend
$800 to a grand for something halfway reliable. I think any of the big four
manufactuers are equally good quality, though I personally buy Arctic Cats.
Buy a fan cooled, and do away with all the maintenance of the liquid cooling
system if you have a choice, but don't turn down a clean liquid sled if you
find one.

For the price you want to pay, try anything you find and make sure it works
now. If it works now, it likely will for a while. You can save some grief
if you have a knowedgable person look at the running gear to see if it's
about to fall off!

Anything 340 twin or up will feel quick enough for what you want to do.

Post by Joa
Looking for all of your recommendations for the best bang for the buck
snowmobile that can generally be found for under $1000 (preferably
closer to around $500 but I'll pay a little more if it's really
necessary to get what I'm after.)
Here's the details...
1. Going to be used on the farm (90 acres) for general family fun-
pulling kids behind on sleds, zooming across the hayfield, cruising on
the roads, etc.
2. Would like to have a good "zoom" factor when loaded with a 270#
dad and a 50# daughter. IOW it should go fast enough on level ground
to "feel" fast if you know what I mean. So in a nutshell it can't be
a total underpowered dog.
3. Should be fairly reliable (though I'm very mechanic oriented) and
be easy to get parts for.
So what should I look for? Is there a minimum length track that I
need for my weight? Minimum size motor to go as fast as I would like?
Do I have to have reverse? Electric start? Etc.
One more thing... are these generally best found in the local
classifieds or should I go to a used-sled type store and if so what
time of the year is the best to get the best deal?
Thanks folks!
Joe

[Groomer Driver]

I'm pretty much in Matt's camp. Late 80's or early 90's Indy Trail or Indy
500. Indy Trail of 86 & up is a 488 fan cooled twin. Indy 500 89 & up to
too much $$ is the same motor but liquid cooled. THe Indy 500 will be more
$$ to a comparable Indy Trail.

I'd go to a dealer looking for something like this. They'd likely put a
30-60 day warranty (50-50 most likely) on it, and have gone over at least
the major items. Buy something like this outta the classified...buyer
beware!!

Oh yea - 2 up would be great for you but likely too much $$





Electric/reverse = tough call..You could maybe sacrifice the convenience for
a little newer sled. Nice to have tho'.

Post by Joa
Looking for all of your recommendations for the best bang for the buck
snowmobile that can generally be found for under $1000 (preferably
closer to around $500 but I'll pay a little more if it's really
necessary to get what I'm after.)
Here's the details...
1. Going to be used on the farm (90 acres) for general family fun-
pulling kids behind on sleds, zooming across the hayfield, cruising on
the roads, etc.
2. Would like to have a good "zoom" factor when loaded with a 270#
dad and a 50# daughter. IOW it should go fast enough on level ground
to "feel" fast if you know what I mean. So in a nutshell it can't be
a total underpowered dog.
3. Should be fairly reliable (though I'm very mechanic oriented) and
be easy to get parts for.
So what should I look for? Is there a minimum length track that I
need for my weight? Minimum size motor to go as fast as I would like?
Do I have to have reverse? Electric start? Etc.
One more thing... are these generally best found in the local
classifieds or should I go to a used-sled type store and if so what
time of the year is the best to get the best deal?
Thanks folks!
Joe

[Joa]

Ok, I found a sled available locally that sounds like a pretty good
deal. It's an '81 Ski-Doo Everest 500 and is apparently in really
good shape (second owner who has had it for 13 years, regularly
maintained, 1500 miles, hand warmers, new seat upholstery and foam,
everything works, etc).

Think I can get is for around $750US.

I know that this engine (Rotax 503) has a pretty good reputation with
the aircraft folks.

From reading on the net it sounds like the suspension is rather
lacking on this model and it will ride really really rough- is this
going to be a huge problem?

What do you all think of this sled for what I want to do? How about
the price? If I go look at it (and ride it) what specifically should
I look for as a known trouble spot?

Thanks again folks, you're all very helpful.

Joe

[Matt Mead]

Post by Joa
Ok, I found a sled available locally that sounds like a pretty good
deal. It's an '81 Ski-Doo Everest 500 and is apparently in really
good shape (second owner who has had it for 13 years, regularly
maintained, 1500 miles, hand warmers, new seat upholstery and foam,
everything works, etc).
Think I can get is for around $750US.
I know that this engine (Rotax 503) has a pretty good reputation with
the aircraft folks.
From reading on the net it sounds like the suspension is rather
lacking on this model and it will ride really really rough- is this
going to be a huge problem?
What do you all think of this sled for what I want to do? How about
the price? If I go look at it (and ride it) what specifically should
I look for as a known trouble spot?

Yeah, that engine is fine and was used for LOTS of years. I've got
one in my 95 Skandic even.

The sled is OK, but I'd keep looking as it is a bit high when
compared to what you can get for about the same or just a few bucks
more. A few years ago you couldn't touch anything with an IFS in your
range, but now you can, and you should set your sites on that. My mom
recently sold two Indy 500s, (93 or 94 models), in average shape, for
$2000. Even threw in a homebuilt trailer. This was a damn good deal,
but the point is, they are out there.

As for what to look for when shopping...... I'm not expert on this,
but I just wanted to pass along something that bit me in the butt.
Check the rubber carb boots on older machines. It certainly isn't a
deal breaker since they are only a few bucks, but having one fail can
mean a rebuild and that can increase the cost of a cheap sled by
25-50%, especially if you aren't comfortable fixing it yourself.

Matt
Doo owner
Manta owner

Post by Joa
Thanks again folks, you're all very helpful.
Joe

[K&PFisher]

For that kind of money you should be able to pick up a early 90's Cat and
have twice the sled.

Post by Matt Mead

Post by Joa
Ok, I found a sled available locally that sounds like a pretty good
deal. It's an '81 Ski-Doo Everest 500 and is apparently in really
good shape (second owner who has had it for 13 years, regularly
maintained, 1500 miles, hand warmers, new seat upholstery and foam,
everything works, etc).
Think I can get is for around $750US.
I know that this engine (Rotax 503) has a pretty good reputation with
the aircraft folks.
From reading on the net it sounds like the suspension is rather
lacking on this model and it will ride really really rough- is this
going to be a huge problem?
What do you all think of this sled for what I want to do? How about
the price? If I go look at it (and ride it) what specifically should
I look for as a known trouble spot?

Yeah, that engine is fine and was used for LOTS of years. I've got
one in my 95 Skandic even.
The sled is OK, but I'd keep looking as it is a bit high when
compared to what you can get for about the same or just a few bucks
more. A few years ago you couldn't touch anything with an IFS in your
range, but now you can, and you should set your sites on that. My mom
recently sold two Indy 500s, (93 or 94 models), in average shape, for
$2000. Even threw in a homebuilt trailer. This was a damn good deal,
but the point is, they are out there.
As for what to look for when shopping...... I'm not expert on this,
but I just wanted to pass along something that bit me in the butt.
Check the rubber carb boots on older machines. It certainly isn't a
deal breaker since they are only a few bucks, but having one fail can
mean a rebuild and that can increase the cost of a cheap sled by
25-50%, especially if you aren't comfortable fixing it yourself.
Matt
Doo owner
Manta owner

Post by Joa
Thanks again folks, you're all very helpful.
Joe

[Openroad]

Joa, I'd at least try and take a test ride on the Everest and see if you
find the suspension too harsh. I've had at least 7 older Yamahas in the
last 6 years or so, and I've been very surprised at how well they have
performed. When I first started looking for old sleds several years ago I
test drove an old SkiDoo Blizzard and an Everest. I didn't know much about
sleds so they seemed okay to me, but a friend recommended against them. I'm
glad I waited for the Yamahas since they had better suspension and most
likely were easier to work on.

The Yammie pogo stick front suspension is a little tricky to work on from
what I hear, but I have NEVER had to take a front strut apart. They have
all worked just fine on these 20 year old sleds. Just for a quick
comparison, I'll give you the prices I paid for my sleds.

1974 SkiDoo TNT 440 fan $500 (this sled was fun and light but had no
suspension and got stuck easy)
1983 Yamaha SRV 540 fan $900 (light sled with lots of power and slot car
handling, no suspension)
1984 Yamaha VMAX 540 liquid $650 (fast fast fast, and decent suspension too,
reliability may be suspect)
1987 Yamaha Phazer 480 fan $750 (plenty quick, great rear suspension for an
'87, best old sled I had)
1994 Yamaha VMAX 600 liquid $1500 (slower than it sounds, low suspension
handled pretty good)
1998 SkiDoo MXZ 670 liquid $3000 (VERY FAST, great suspension, too much sled
for your farm) hehe

I would still try for an older Yamaha, they just keep on running!
Good luck, and may you find a great sled!
Openroad

----- Original Message -----
From: "Joa" <***@yahoo.com>
Newsgroups: rec.sport.snowmobiles,alt.snowmobiles,alt.snowmobiles.old
Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 7:42 PM
Subject: Re: best used sled under $1000

Post by Joa
Ok, I found a sled available locally that sounds like a pretty good
deal. It's an '81 Ski-Doo Everest 500 and is apparently in really
good shape (second owner who has had it for 13 years, regularly
maintained, 1500 miles, hand warmers, new seat upholstery and foam,
everything works, etc).
Think I can get is for around $750US.
I know that this engine (Rotax 503) has a pretty good reputation with
the aircraft folks.
From reading on the net it sounds like the suspension is rather
lacking on this model and it will ride really really rough- is this
going to be a huge problem?
What do you all think of this sled for what I want to do? How about
the price? If I go look at it (and ride it) what specifically should
I look for as a known trouble spot?
Thanks again folks, you're all very helpful.
Joe

[Gary C]

Post by Openroad
1983 Yamaha SRV 540 fan $900 (light sled with lots of power and slot car
handling, no suspension)
1984 Yamaha VMAX 540 liquid $650 (fast fast fast, and decent suspension too,
reliability may be suspect)

Identical suspensions, front (TSS) and rear (pro-link)
Should have rode the same, unless something was wrong.

Post by Openroad
I would still try for an older Yamaha, they just keep on running!

Hear, hear. Just the old VMAX and old SRX's were like a woman.
One day they're happy, the next day all hell breaks loose.

A nice fan Yamaha. Fun sled.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2455648497&category=42599

[Fx199]

Post by Gary C
A nice fan Yamaha. Fun sled.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2455648497&

category=42599
and as you can see, the resale value is really good!

[Lee F]

I have one of those still sitting around in the yard. Not a bad fan
cooled engine, but very rough suspension and the track while great on
the hard back, isnt very good in the powder. Of course in 81 nobody had
a very good powder track. I am not sure where you are, but around here,
(South East Idaho) I coudn't get more than 200 to 300 US tops for a 81
Everest 500. Unless I found someone really naieve and was willing to
play him for a sucker. For 750 US you should be able to get into a late
80s or early 90s Polaris Indy 500 liquid cooled, with a MUCH better
ride. If I were you I would look for a early 90s sled with independant
front suspesnion. For the weight you posted I would look for something
along the line of a Indy or 600, (They went to the IFS in about 85) or
Polaris XLT (Introduced in 93) or an Artic Cat EXT came out about the
same year, also had a 580 liquid cooled motor. I was into polaris back
then, I ride a Doo now, but in the early 90s, the cats had the best
suspensions, and polaris wasn't far behind. I am sure SkiDoo and Yamaha
had somethng comparable, but back then I pulled a lot of yahmahas out of
the mountains. God luck. You will realy appreciate the beter
suspension.

Post by Joa
Ok, I found a sled available locally that sounds like a pretty good
deal. It's an '81 Ski-Doo Everest 500 and is apparently in really
good shape (second owner who has had it for 13 years, regularly
maintained, 1500 miles, hand warmers, new seat upholstery and foam,
everything works, etc).
Think I can get is for around $750US.
I know that this engine (Rotax 503) has a pretty good reputation with
the aircraft folks.
From reading on the net it sounds like the suspension is rather
lacking on this model and it will ride really really rough- is this
going to be a huge problem?
What do you all think of this sled for what I want to do? How about
the price? If I go look at it (and ride it) what specifically should
I look for as a known trouble spot?
Thanks again folks, you're all very helpful.
Joe

[James Arnold]

If you look, you can get a deal. I bought 2 Indy 500s, a 1995 and 1996 for
$2000..both are in excellent condition...guy wanted $3000, but he didn't get
it.

J

Post by Groomer Driver
I'm pretty much in Matt's camp. Late 80's or early 90's Indy Trail or Indy
500. Indy Trail of 86 & up is a 488 fan cooled twin. Indy 500 89 & up to
too much $$ is the same motor but liquid cooled. THe Indy 500 will be more
$$ to a comparable Indy Trail.
I'd go to a dealer looking for something like this. They'd likely put a
30-60 day warranty (50-50 most likely) on it, and have gone over at least
the major items. Buy something like this outta the classified...buyer
beware!!
Oh yea - 2 up would be great for you but likely too much $$
Electric/reverse = tough call..You could maybe sacrifice the convenience for
a little newer sled. Nice to have tho'.

Post by Joa
Looking for all of your recommendations for the best bang for the buck
snowmobile that can generally be found for under $1000 (preferably
closer to around $500 but I'll pay a little more if it's really
necessary to get what I'm after.)
Here's the details...
1. Going to be used on the farm (90 acres) for general family fun-
pulling kids behind on sleds, zooming across the hayfield, cruising on
the roads, etc.
2. Would like to have a good "zoom" factor when loaded with a 270#
dad and a 50# daughter. IOW it should go fast enough on level ground
to "feel" fast if you know what I mean. So in a nutshell it can't be
a total underpowered dog.
3. Should be fairly reliable (though I'm very mechanic oriented) and
be easy to get parts for.
So what should I look for? Is there a minimum length track that I
need for my weight? Minimum size motor to go as fast as I would like?
Do I have to have reverse? Electric start? Etc.
One more thing... are these generally best found in the local
classifieds or should I go to a used-sled type store and if so what
time of the year is the best to get the best deal?
Thanks folks!
Joe

[Joa]

On my way home tonight I'm going to stop and look at this sled and
will let you know what I find. I'll probably offer him what it's
worth (around $400-$500 from what I gather) and see what happens. If
not hopefully I'll be able to find another sled later.

Couple more questions...

Which of the above recommended sleds has a two-up seat and/or a longer
track (like the Everest)... the reason I ask is that one of my "dream"
uses of the sled (besides taking kids for rides in the hayfield) is to
take a ski buddy and access a local mountain area for backcountry
skiing. This will require taking two big guys and their ski gear up
roads/trails so I'll need sitting room and hopefully a smooth ride.

I know this probably throws things into a whole new light but I still
don't want to spend over the $1000.

Also, what part of the year seems the best for finding a good deal on
a sled and where is generally the best place to look (local
classifieds, nickel-ads, Ebay, etc)?

Thanks again.

Joe

[Openroad]

I've never owned a two-up sled myself, so my experiences wouldn't be much
help. I will venture to say there weren't very many two-up sleds sold in
the 80s, so finding a good one may prove difficult. For back-country
running and hill climbing I have to say you won't find anything very good
for under $1000. Long tracks, powerful engines, deep lug tracks, and
reliability are all things to remember when going into untracked areas. You
can skip some of the newest mountain sleds if you don't climb super steep
hills, but if you plan to take TWO people and ski gear up even moderately
powdery hills you'll need a better sled than your budget allows.

As for finding good deals, March and April seem to be the best months for
cheap sleds. I have purchased several sleds from salvage yards, and I
consider them to be a great place to find deals. You could get into the
mid-90s for your stated price and only need to fix a few things. Auto
junkyards or "salvage yards" often get deals with insurance companies, where
they buy sleds that are too damaged to fix under insurance, but are still
very repairable. A little hood damage, bellypan damage, and a bent trailing
arm will total a 8 or 9 year old sled. Just the thing a do-it-yourself
mechanic is looking for!

Another great place to hit are the snowmobile swap meets or auctions. Good
deals can be had all year long with incredible deals in the springtime.
Below I've listed the links to a local Michigan sled auction, and also
linked to the price report for the March 2003 auction. The prices listed
are what the winning bids were at item sale time.

http://www.snowmobileauction.com/index.htm

http://www.snowmobileauction.com/pricesmarch.htm

I don't know where you live, but you might have such an auction near you!

I hope I could help, good luck finding your dream sled!
Abe

Post by Joa
On my way home tonight I'm going to stop and look at this sled and
will let you know what I find. I'll probably offer him what it's
worth (around $400-$500 from what I gather) and see what happens. If
not hopefully I'll be able to find another sled later.
Couple more questions...
Which of the above recommended sleds has a two-up seat and/or a longer
track (like the Everest)... the reason I ask is that one of my "dream"
uses of the sled (besides taking kids for rides in the hayfield) is to
take a ski buddy and access a local mountain area for backcountry
skiing. This will require taking two big guys and their ski gear up
roads/trails so I'll need sitting room and hopefully a smooth ride.
I know this probably throws things into a whole new light but I still
don't want to spend over the $1000.
Also, what part of the year seems the best for finding a good deal on
a sled and where is generally the best place to look (local
classifieds, nickel-ads, Ebay, etc)?
Thanks again.
Joe

[Fx199]

Post by Openroad
For back-country
running and hill climbing I have to say you won't find anything very good
for under $1000. Long tracks, powerful engines, deep lug tracks, and
reliability are all things to remember when going into untracked areas. You
can skip some of the newest mountain sleds if you don't climb super steep
hills, but if you plan to take TWO people and ski gear up even moderately
powdery hills you'll need a better sled than your budget allows.
As for finding good deals, March and April seem to be the best months for
cheap sleds. I have purchased several sleds from salvage yards, and I
consider them to be a great place to find deals. You could get into the
mid-90s for your stated price and only need to fix a few things. Auto
junkyards or "salvage yards" often get deals with insurance companies, where
they buy sleds that are too damaged to fix under insurance, but are still
very repairable. A little hood damage, bellypan damage, and a bent trailing
arm will total a 8 or 9 year old sled. Just the thing a do-it-yourself
mechanic is looking for!
Another great place to hit are the snowmobile swap meets or auctions. Good
deals can be had all year long with incredible deals in the springtime.
Below I've listed the links to a local Michigan sled auction, and also
linked to the price report for the March 2003 auction. The prices listed
are what the winning bids were at item sale time.
http://www.snowmobileauction.com/index.htm
http://www.snowmobileauction.com/pricesmarch.htm

I was going to say something smilar...I think you will need to spend 1500+ and
spend it in July or August, now is the definitely the worst time to buy one.

[Joa]

Took a look and rode that Everest last night. Nice sled, good shape
and it seemed to run fine. Owner had all the paperwork. He was
pretty firm on getting around $800 for it though so I let it go. I
can see his point- for what he wants to do with it (let the kids ride
it when they come home from college, etc) he should just keep it since
he knows its history, reliability, etc.

I did like the long seat and would like to find something similar in a
sled that has better supsension.

Anywho... I'm still looking for a sled and will keep my eyes peeled
for ones like you all mentioned. To clarify a bit- I don't plan to
do a lot of hill climbing with it but will go off trail some and like
I said will be carrying quite a bit of weight and would like a smooth
ride.

FWIW I'm in N. Idaho... any local auctions that folks know of?

Also, one tip for any other N Idahoans that may be reading this... the
fellow I met last night (who owned quite a few sleds and has been
riding them for a long time) said that when he originally bought the
sled (13 years ago) he brought it in to like 5 shops and they couldn't
solve a "sluggish" problem. He ended up bringing it to Recycled
Cycles in Hayden Lake and the owner there fixed the problem, didn't
charge much, and was great to work with. Apparently he brings all his
sleds to them now and is really satisfied. Just a plug though I have
no affiliation at all with the shop.

Joe

[Joa]

Ok guys, I took your advice and waited for one of the sleds you all
recommended to come up for sale and am really glad I did. Friday I
bought a 1986 Indy 400 for $300! The owner had just gone though a
divorce and is now going through bankruptcy so maybe that's why the
low price.

The sled is nice and tight and seems in good shape (the usual small
cracks in the winshield and hood here and there and the seat is
starting to go, etc). The only problem is that it won't start.

On Friday I noticed that it had good spark but the throttles/carbs
were stuck (gummed up) and one of the pistons seemed like it didn't
have near the
compression that the other one did. It pulled over fine though and
felt smooth.

I picked it up today (didn't have a trailer with me on Friday when I
bought it) and spent a few hours this afternoon taking everything all
apart. It looks really good inside (no burned pistons or cylinders or
major rust, etc) but I have quite a few mechanical questions so I'll
start another Polaris 400 specific thread regarding those (and would
love your advice).

Thanks to all of you for your help! I feel confident that this sled,
especially with it's more modern independent suspension, will work
just great for what I want it to do.

Joe

[SW]

86 :- Modern.......Oh Boy !!

"Only problem is it doesnt run"....LOL....Pretty major problem I would say!!

Post by Joa
Ok guys, I took your advice and waited for one of the sleds you all
recommended to come up for sale and am really glad I did. Friday I
bought a 1986 Indy 400 for $300! The owner had just gone though a
divorce and is now going through bankruptcy so maybe that's why the
low price.
The sled is nice and tight and seems in good shape (the usual small
cracks in the winshield and hood here and there and the seat is
starting to go, etc). The only problem is that it won't start.
On Friday I noticed that it had good spark but the throttles/carbs
were stuck (gummed up) and one of the pistons seemed like it didn't
have near the
compression that the other one did. It pulled over fine though and
felt smooth.
I picked it up today (didn't have a trailer with me on Friday when I
bought it) and spent a few hours this afternoon taking everything all
apart. It looks really good inside (no burned pistons or cylinders or
major rust, etc) but I have quite a few mechanical questions so I'll
start another Polaris 400 specific thread regarding those (and would
love your advice).
Thanks to all of you for your help! I feel confident that this sled,
especially with it's more modern independent suspension, will work
just great for what I want it to do.
Joe

[Joa]

Yaa, you're right, normally that would be a problem. I look at it
this way though- if I do the engine work myself and spend maybe $200
in parts then I end up with a decent $500 sled that is within budget
and has a fresh overhaul. Plus I learn something in the process and
have some fun while I'm at it - skinned knuckles are fun for me ;-) I
also figure that I have the rest of my life to ride sleds (and teach
my kids) so I might as well learn to wrench on them now with something
that's cheap and low-risk.

Everybody's different though- some would prefer to buy and ride and
then bring it into a shop for maintenance. I'm use to working on
airplanes (A&P) so in comparison this sled is pretty basic and the
parts are dirt cheap (replace two pistons and cylinders in a certified
plane and it will run you the price of a nice used sled).

Joe

Post by SW
"Only problem is it doesnt run"....LOL....Pretty major problem I would say!!

[K&PFisher]

I paid 750 US for a 99 XCR 700 that needed a rebuilt and Its a whole lot
more sled than any 86, I hope it works out for ya though we need all the
sledheads we can get on our side.

Post by Joa
Yaa, you're right, normally that would be a problem. I look at it
this way though- if I do the engine work myself and spend maybe $200
in parts then I end up with a decent $500 sled that is within budget
and has a fresh overhaul. Plus I learn something in the process and
have some fun while I'm at it - skinned knuckles are fun for me ;-) I
also figure that I have the rest of my life to ride sleds (and teach
my kids) so I might as well learn to wrench on them now with something
that's cheap and low-risk.
Everybody's different though- some would prefer to buy and ride and
then bring it into a shop for maintenance. I'm use to working on
airplanes (A&P) so in comparison this sled is pretty basic and the
parts are dirt cheap (replace two pistons and cylinders in a certified
plane and it will run you the price of a nice used sled).
Joe

Post by SW
"Only problem is it doesnt run"....LOL....Pretty major problem I would say!!

[Fx199]

Post by Joa
Yaa, you're right, normally that would be a problem. I look at it
this way though- if I do the engine work myself and spend maybe $200
in parts then I end up with a decent $500 sled that is within budget
and has a fresh overhaul. Plus I learn something in the process and
have some fun while I'm at it - skinned knuckles are fun for me ;-)

If you say so, to me breakdowns aren't fun, and I like to buy something that at
least has a chance of being reliable. Otherwise why not get ino the Vintage
hobby, get some 70's leafsprings. Plenty of fun, and plenty to wrench
on...super cheap. You could look for the least dependable brands if you really
enjoy wrenching that much haha
You probably could get a used 4max 4 in the summertime, haul you and your load
just fine

[Dean]

Post by Fx199

Post by Joa
Yaa, you're right, normally that would be a problem. I look at it
this way though- if I do the engine work myself and spend maybe $200
in parts then I end up with a decent $500 sled that is within budget
and has a fresh overhaul. Plus I learn something in the process and
have some fun while I'm at it - skinned knuckles are fun for me ;-)

If you say so, to me breakdowns aren't fun, and I like to buy something that at
least has a chance of being reliable. Otherwise why not get ino the Vintage
hobby, get some 70's leafsprings. Plenty of fun, and plenty to wrench
on...super cheap. You could look for the least dependable brands if you really
enjoy wrenching that much haha
You probably could get a used 4max 4 in the summertime, haul you and your load
just fine

There is nothing unreliable about an 86 polaris 400 sled. As long as
he keep up on general maintenance, he will not have problems.

My 92 440 is very reliable. I've fouled a few plugs, and had a few
screws come loose (damn locktite?!?!) but i've never broken down
enough to need a tow in 2000 miles or so.

-Dean
--
92 Polaris Indy 440 XCR
http://www.ripperd.com

[Fx199]

Post by Dean
There is nothing unreliable about an 86 polaris 400 sled. As long as
he keep up on general maintenance, he will not have problems.
My 92 440 is very reliable. I've fouled a few plugs, and had a few
screws come loose (damn locktite?!?!) but i've never broken down
enough to need a tow in 2000 miles or so.
-Dean
--
92 Polaris Indy 440 XCR
http://www.ripperd.com

His doesn't start ;-(

[Gary C]

Aint nothing wrong with that.

Post by Joa
Yaa, you're right, normally that would be a problem. I look at it
this way though- if I do the engine work myself and spend maybe $200
in parts then I end up with a decent $500 sled that is within budget
and has a fresh overhaul. Plus I learn something in the process and
have some fun while I'm at it - skinned knuckles are fun for me ;-) I
also figure that I have the rest of my life to ride sleds (and teach
my kids) so I might as well learn to wrench on them now with something
that's cheap and low-risk.
Everybody's different though- some would prefer to buy and ride and
then bring it into a shop for maintenance. I'm use to working on
airplanes (A&P) so in comparison this sled is pretty basic and the
parts are dirt cheap (replace two pistons and cylinders in a certified
plane and it will run you the price of a nice used sled).
Joe

[Fx199]

Post by Joa
The sled is nice and tight and seems in good shape (the usual small
cracks in the winshield and hood here and there and the seat is
starting to go, etc). The only problem is that it won't start

Why would you buy something without starting it??
Maybe this isn't your hobby?