wondering what all your opinions are on a engine with 5,000 miles, the previous owner did not abuse it at all, i was wondering if anything like the top end would have to be rebuilt or any precautions could be taking?

 

I doubt it I ride with a 1996 Xpress 400 and a 1999 Xplorer 400 both with over 3000 miles and the motors run like new. Also have a friend with a 1996 Xpress 300 2 stroke with 15,000 miles on the motor.

 

I find that the Polaris 2 stroke engines are pretty reliable in the long run. They are basically designed for easier riding situations such as trails or light sport riding, so they need less maintenance then say a 250R or Banshee 2 stroke would. Those two machines are a little more high strung then the Polaris 2 strokes (which is why they make so much power).

Although that engine you have has 5000 miles, I think it is good for many more. On the other hand, a simple rebuild would still probably gain you some lost ponies.

 

As long as you keep the air filter on, it will do just fine=)