Andy Bassham |
02-06-2012 08:16 PM |
The carb on the 97 model 454 was its downside. It was changed some for 1998 I believe (my cousin has the remains of one in his yard still), but still that year model would foul out and blow black smoke as well. Steering geometry also changed for 98 which was a major upside, but I do remember from the time a lot of complaints about the 97 bearcat 454 having major carb issues. My advice, if you can get it going for relatively cheap, go for it. DO NOT put a lot of money in it. You will only lose out in the end. My cousin is wanting to get his 98 going again, and I bet it would take over $1000 to do so. That money would be better used towards a good used 4x4. Even in top condition, the quad will steer heavy and the rear driveshaft bearing is a poor design and not sealed well for mud. I've replaced 3 of them between my cousin's and the 99 model 500 that I once had (which was an even better improvement over the previous year model 454/500's). The 4wd system is just a common limited slip, and while its fine for most things, anything with a locking differential option is a better choice if you plan to go into situations that really need it.
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