I am looking int o purchasing a used 1997 425 magnum but cant find any info on the qaud online .Anyone have any info about this qaud pros and cons .
Was thinking of getting this for wife .I now see magnum is 325c/c and no chain.
Any problems with 97 magnum chain drive.
I can by for $2000.00 any help is helpful

gb in NJ
2002 650 prairie
26 mudrunner 2500 winch with vee plow but NO SNOW YET

 

bought mine new in '95. it was the first year for a 425 4-stroke motor. rode two adult passengers all the time for 4 years. the balance of the time 'till present has been spent working hard on my brother's farm in Vt.
we do one oil change, chain adjustment, and grease job per year. THAT'S IT!
other than 2 new batteries, 3 flat tires, and one steering post bushing, this machine is living proof that Polaris makes one GREAT PRODUCT!
unless they start building junk, i'll keep buying Polaris.
(i can't speak for your '97, but i think it was the same as a '95 except for the color)
ENJOY!
MT

 

I have a 98 Magnum 425 4x4. It has been a pretty reliable machine so far. I bought it new in late 97. The things I like / dislike about it:

Dislike:

1. The three chain 4x4 system is a real pain to maintain.

2. The front tie rod ends wore out prematurely causing looseness in the steering.

3. The machine is hard to steer. Given that it is a large machine, it is still fairly hard to steer compared to other machines (including the newer Polaris's).

Likes:

1. The machine alway's starts easy and every time. The engine is a solid performer.

2. The auto transmission has always worked flawlessly. I am still on the original belt.

3. The selectable AWD is a great feature and always works flawlessly.

4. Decent power for a 400 series machine given the weight of the machine.

5. Does a nice job plowing snow and can throw mud with the best of them.

The 97 and 98 models were basically the same. I don't think they changed much from the 97 to the 98 model. Let me know if you have any additional questions.

 

There were a few minor changes made in the machines since the earlier '95 models. Nothing earth-shattering, more like minor 'upgrades', but they added up to a better machine. Mostly, it was slightly 'beefier' components such as the rear swingarm, and a few improvents in the clutches.
With the exception of the early '95 machines, they were really trouble-free as far as breakdowns go. They had the 3 chain system that was a pain to adjust, they vibrated a little more than the newer ones, and weren't as 'refined' but they were a tough machine, and the motors seemed to just run and run.
The price seems OK as well, provided it is in good shape.

Check for: looseness in the steering, and in the rear swingarm, these were usually the first things to 'wear' in the frame/chassis.
On the driveline, check over all 3 chains & 6 sprockets good, and also the brakes, and listen to the clutch, to be sure it doesn't rattle, and so it 'shifts' smoothly.

 

I have had my 96 425 Magnum 4x4 since 98 it is one of the most reliable machines i have had no super power house but will do any thing you want it to.Like the others said 3 chain drive system is a pain but it is not that bad.Other that brakes and tie rod ends the only thing that has really went wrong with mine was the tranny shaft broke between the rear drive sprocket and the middle sprocket.AS far as the ride(comfort wise) it is great compared to my 96 sportsman.I would recomend a 425 to anyone.

 

Yoo Tamp,whats up
You dont want that old 425 sitting next to the 02 650,
so I'll tell you what I'm gonna do.
Just pm me the guys phone# and I'll take that old bike off his hands[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]
Only kidding,but they are a great bike.
Everything is original on mine except the starter and speedo,and I have abused that bike something fierce.

We got to hook up sometime to ride,toms river is about a 1/2hr ride north.

 

500 duce
I might not get 425 but also can get a 88 yamaha warrior with just 100 hrs on it for $1500.00
Let me know if you want to hook up I ride NJOVP plus found another area close buy where we can ride with no cops.
Also went to tower city might be going this weekeknd
e mail me tampavii@aol.com