Hello ATV Connection readers! Here’s your chance to get some expert advice from our crack editorial staff. If you have an ATV related question, create a forum account (if you don’t already have one) then start a new thread in our Ask the Editor section. It’s easy, informative, and fun!

So, without further ado, here are this week’s questions…

Dear ATVC:

All I ever hear about is the high cost of repair if my 4-stroke race engine blows up on me. Are there any signs (aside from tearing down the motor) to look for that could mean my rings are worn out?

Actually the obvious thing to look for is a notable loss in compression, which often plays out as harder starting/less kick-starter resistance, and excessive exhaust smoke.

More specific to performance ATV engines, check the oil breather tubes. It’s normal to see some degree of moisture or condensation, but if there’s actually oil leakage, odds are good that your rings are well worn. Perhaps the most foolproof way to check engine health is to keep a close eye on oil consumption. Check your machine’s dipstick or sight-glass, if you are losing more than the difference from the “high” mark to the “low” mark in the course of your ride, you are due for a new top end.

Dear ATVC:

I had to replace a worn chain recently on my quad and ended up putting on a replacement that was a link and a half shorter. My mechanic says that this could mess up my suspension settings. I can’t seem to confirm this online anywhere. Any truth to such claims?

Yes there is. ATV suspension functions on account of leverage and even slight changes to the axle position of your machine can offset the amount of leverage being placed upon your shock’s linkage.

A single chain link measures roughly 14mm in length so in your case, the axle was moved 21mm forward. This is absolutely enough to interfere with your rear suspension’s small bump compliancy and will result in your suspension’s feeling firmer than you’ve been experiencing. Unless you enjoy the trial and error process of tuning in your shock’s external settings, we recommend replacing a worn chain with one of the same number of links.

And just so you know, as you do the opposite (move the axle farther back), you increase the leverage on the shock, hence making it appear softer.

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