I found a '98 Scrambler 400 4x4. He wants $3500
for it. I havent seen it yet but can anyone tell
me if it is a good deal? What should I look for
when i go and look at it? What year is the best
year to buy? Has any specific year had any problems? Is this a good machine, or should I look for a 500 Scrambler? Which is better the 400 or the 500?

 

Either the 400 or 500 are fine, but do not buy a 1997 500. The 97 500 is not the HO model. If I were going to buy a used scram I would buy a 99 or newer so I could get the concentric drive. I think they came out in 99. Start it up and make sure it sounds good and runs good. If you don't know what to look for take someone who does with you. Make a list of things that look like they need replacing and use this list to negotiate the price down. Example, if the chain and sprocket both look worn ask the seller to knock off $200 so you can replace them.

Jeremy 99 500 HO

 

That sounds like a fair price if it checks out.
Look for crash damage, but the best way to see
if it's in good shape is the tires. If the original tires are there and not worn out it can't
have too many miles on it. Pull off the seat, check the air filter, if it's dirty the owner doesn't take care of it. Check the steering to
see if it's loose. Shake the rear end to see if
all the bearings are still good. Ask the owner to show you all the Zerks, if he doesn't know where they are he hasn't greased them. Go to Polaris.com and download the Scrambler parts list
so you know what to look at first hand. Try to bring a friend along who owns a Polaris.