Don't bother trying to do a compression test, the DS has an automatic decompressor to make starting easier and you wont get an accuate reading without disabling that. I have no clue how to do that, I doubt it is something you could do in that situation, though from your description it sounds like a good deal.

Ask about when the valves were adjusted - valve adjustment is critical on a 4 stroke. It's as critical as gas & oil, you just do it less often.

When you fired up the ATV, was the engine cold, or warm? You should see if you can start it cold - if it starts reasonably well when cold you've probably got a good one. (On my DSs I generally just pull the choke, hit start and after a couple of cranks it fires up.)

Considering I paid $7400 for my 2001 DS650, $3600 sounds like a damn steal!

 

Hey every one thanks for all of the great info!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was my 1st post and DAM you all came through.

This is GREAT FORUM

THANKS AGAIN
I will let you all know the out come as soon as I gut up!

 

I'm pretty new here too. This forum is awsome...everyone respects everyone else, I've never seen anyone flame anyone else, and the info provided is so much better than any of the other forums I'm a member of. You will definately get the straight scoop here!!!