I want to snowplow a short, flat driveway and a couple of sidewalks. Also want to use it for general maintenance chores on 2 acres, such as hauling tree limbs and rocks. No trail riding ... just a workhorse at the house. What kinds of questions should I ask when calling about used ATVs from the classifieds? At visual inspection, are there areas on the quad that require special attention, like bent frames or transmission problems, etc? Thank you for your input.

 

Some things to ask when calling would be: What kind of shape is it in, any cracks in the fenders? What is the mileage? Ask what kind of things he did for maintance (oil changes, clean air filter, etc) What is your reason for selling? I like this question and usually save it for when I'm with the owner. You can get alot from his answer. (Nervious, no eye contact, etc)

Things to check on site:
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-visually inspect frame.
-try lights/winch/go from 2-4wheel drive a few times (If applicable)/ shift from forward to reverse a few times
-press down on suspension to make sure shocks are not busted
-check wheels for loose bearing/balljoints
-during test drive turn sharp and listen for CV shaft snapping noise
-drive slow and listen for squeeling brakes and any loose parts (fenders, covers/lids of any type, inspect brake disks (If they have deep scrathes on them check brake pads)
-check tire wear

Hope this help some.

 

Sounds like you would want an auto clutch manual with a solid rear axle.
Also look for bent bars, deeply scratched plastic, and bent rims. All would show signs of a rollover or crash.
Make sure the engine starts quickly and does not smoke. ( 4Stroke ) once warmed up a little, punch the gas wide open real quick and let off. It should not blow smoke or make pinging or banging sounds. These little ATV engines can be quite expensive to rebuild if its old and tired.
Mostly just check it out like you would a used car.

 

Sounds like you're looking for something in the 300-400cc range with shaft drive. You can get much bigger quads if your ego demands it, however a 400cc engine will get most jobs done. In terms of reliability, only one manufacturer seems to produce more than their fair share of lemons.

The most important question in my opinion is who rides it most often and for what purpose. I also like to know why the seller is getting rid of it.

Check the rear hubs to make sure they are tight. Owners frequently forget to check the rear hub nuts and before long the axles are toast.

Check the clutch plates for slippage by switching to a high gear at low speeds and see if the engine will rev up with little increase in speed.

The handlebar grips and area just below and behind the tank where you thighs often rest will show signs of wear first.

ATV carburators often run rich once they see a lot of hours and produce black smoke.

Good luck.

 

Thanks to everyone for your input.

To springdrl: Care to share which manufacturer, in your opinion, grows more lemons than most?

 

I think it has something to do with american dasign. Hope this helps!

 

More lemons?Maybe.Definatley more maintanace(polaris0.Get a japanese make 300cc or 400cc ute and you won't be dissappionted.

 

Yeap!

 

Is that why I see a disproportionate amount of Polaris for sale in the classifieds? There are tons of them but only a handful of the other manufacturers.

 

You can also get alot of bike for little money! It might be a bad thing to say & I mean no harm to anyones feelings, but I should just send my paycheck to Japan because I have a shop & driveway full of their products.
I also have japanese electronics in my house & vehicles. If it can be built, they do it the best.