I'm looking at a used 1995 Yamaha Wolverine 4X4 and would like some pointers as to what to look out for in a used machine. How can you tell if the machine's been abused or just used?

Thanks!

 

First thing to ask about is the front wheel bearings, Yamaha,in a fit of stupidity, put open bearings in there, so any water that got in goes right to work rusting them out, if the former owner played a lot of swamp buggy, they will have to come out, not expensive, but takes a couple of hours to get it all apart and put new ones in. ( I believe the replacment number is 6006 2RS,sealed bearings.) Also check the swingarm bearings, they are a bit more fun to get at, but left uncheck or unlubed, and they will fall apart, and your swing arm will flop around and handle quite badly. (trust me on this one !! ) Pop the air box lid, if it is filthy, the owner didn't care to keep his machine clean or maintained, and the life of the motor will be shortened, same with the oil, if it is dark, dirty or smelly, he's the beat it and park it type that didn't care about his quad. Jack up the front end, grab the tires top and bottom and wiggle them, checking for excessive play in the ball joints./bearings, push down on the grab bar and front bumpers, see if the shocks rebound evenly without noise or too much effort. Fender scratches are just signs of use, seat rips can be fixed ( lower the price !!) the main thing is it starts and runs well, no smoke or funny noises ( the Warrior / Wolverine motors can tick a little, that's just the way they are ) and see that it goes through the gears good, no slop or notchiness. I'm sure there are others who will have some good advice, but being a long time Wolverine owner, that is what I would look for.