Ask The Editors: Big Bear CDI Box Compatibility
A machine that slips through the part # cracks.
We see the dilemma here – the OEM part is stated as compatible with that year’s Kodiak 400 as well as the Big Bear 350 but not the Big Bear 400. And at nearly $500 new, that is way too pricey a gamble to see if it would work. However, we do have a solution.
The OEM part # for the Big Bear 400’s CDI box would be 5FU-85540-20.
The important part of that number is the middle – 85540. Doing a quick cross-reference we find that there are indeed aftermarket boxes that are listed as compatible on eBay for cheap. How cheap? Well under $20 brand new and free shipping. Here’s an example of one for $18.97 available right now.
We’re not sure we’d risk OEM pricing but for $20 – we’d give it a go and see if cures your problems. If so, you know in the future that the boxes are indeed compatible should you opt to upgrade. If not, recovering the cost of investment by relisting the cheapie should be a breeze.
