Got a '07 420 4x4es about a month ago and i just about have enough time on it to get the first service done. Right now i'm planning on taking it back to the dealer. But i'm wondering if it's really worth it? I've owned quite a few atv's in the past and have never had this service done i would always just change the oil myself. I've heard some talk though that the first service on this motor is crucial is this true? Thanks!

 

i have 1400 miles and almost 150 hrs on mine and all ive done is change the oil......i havent even had to change a sparkplug.

and i did adjust the clutch....took all of about 10 mins

 

Cool thanks yea i have a friend that has a '00 Rancher with 1600 miles on it and thats all he has ever done too....i was just wondering about the fuel injection if that made any difference. Can't see paying $130 for them to change oil!!

 

I would highly suggest doing the valve adjustment check, in addition to the oil and filter.

Also, don't forget to keep the air filter up to snuff, and I'd also check the gear oil level in both axles.

If you are going to keep the machine long term, and like to do your own work, get a factory service manual. It will be an investment that will pay you back quickly.

Enjoy the Rancher.

P.S. Some Hondas have a filter element that can be installed backwards, and I think the Rancher is one of them if I recall correctly... If you put it in backwards, it blocks all oil flow. Get the Honda filter. They aren't that much more, quality is known, and it is stamped which way it goes in.

 

Change the engine oil and oil filter, and change out the gear oil in the front diff and rear end. These are simple and easy for anybody with a little mechanical ability.

Absolutely, do not neglect to do a valve adjustment at 20 hours!!! Everybody seems to skip this for some reason....mostly just plain ignorance I guess??? Get a service manual, and see if you are up to doing it yourself, but otherwise you will have to have it done by the dealer (usually 1 hour of labor).

 

I DID MY LOF ABOUT A MONTH AFTER PURCHASED, AROUND 100 MILES OR SO.
BUY THE OIL FILTER AND OIL FROM LOCAL DEALER AND DO IT YOURSELF.

 

Thanks guys yea i'm going to take care of it myself can't see giving them that kind of money to do something i can do on my own. Thanks all for your input!!

 

I think there is a post in here about adjusting the valves. Personally, I would just get a service manual and do what it tells you.

 

With any machine I've ever purchased I've always had the first service done at the dealer, this takes care of a proper oil change, valve adjustment and make sure that any cables that may have stretched (most cables stretch when new, and not much more after that) & brakes are adjusted back to factory specs. This also gives the dealer a chance to check over for any loose bolts, and address any noises or problems I may have noticed while riding. It also reduces the chance of a fight with a warranty issue should one arise since the dealer did the service and not me (as I'm not a certified Honda mechanic).

After that I do ALL my own work since its pretty straight forward, I have the manual and the warranty is expired anyway.

 

That does bring up another point... If you do your own service be sure to save receipts for oil, filters and supplies, and keep a log of what service you did at what date, mileage, and hours.