I'm new to ATV and just bought a 99 or 00 Cat 250 2x4. I can't find a model number to confirm the model year but it has a sticker that shows a manufacture date of 04/1999 and has a vin # like AUF00ATxxxxx. Is this a 2000 model built in 99 or is it a 99? It doesn't have a winch but I plan to get one. A prior owner wielded a steel plate with two holes to the brush guard just under the lights. Maybe this was to mount a winch but it seems higher than I would think. What is a recommended winch and mounting plate for this? Last question, it does have some cracks on the fenders where the racks mount. Will these grow and if so how is the best way to repair? Thanks for helping.

 

As to the year - I don't know.
They make a plastic repair kit - do a search on ebay
You probably don't need much more than a 1500# winch. I have an Xtreme and am totally satisfied with it. Again check - ebay.

Here is a link for a 2000# for about $80 delivered (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NEW-X...spagenameZWDVW)

or go here (http://www.xtremewinch.com/)

 

Thanks for the info on the winch. I saw the Xtreme brand on eBay but wondered about the quality and durability. I've seen many people mention Warn but a lot more $$$ than I wanted to spend. On the other hand I didn't want to spend less only to find out it breaks the first time I need it. I also found that the local Cat dealer will run the vin# for me and can verify the model year.
On the fenders, I didn't know if most had successful repairs or if most people simply replaced them. If I do replace, I'll wait until I take it out several times since I might add to the cracks while beginning. Thanks. :-)

 

Not to take anything away from Warn (I never had one) but my best friend was on his second Warn and second rebuild, (rebuilt the first one 3 times.). Each time he rebuilds it, it cost more than an Xtreme. Guess what, he now is the proud owner of a 3000# Xtreme (same as mine) and according to him it is as good a winch as a Warn and has more pull and he is very satisfied.

Look at it this way, if you get a Warn and need to rebuild it (cost too much just to throw it away), it will cost close to $70-$100 or more.