I did it, got a 2001 Foreman 450es, 470 miles and 214 hours, used for driveway plowing only(I think). I changes the oil and am about to do the diffs next weekend, added 44K to the gas and it seems to run just fine. I will adjust the rear brakes and replace the brake fluid in the front next weekend. There seems to be ever so slight noise when cold idle but not when warm. It has been sitting for a long time and seems to get better each time I start it. I set the tire pressure at 4lb PSI and it seems like I am riding on flat tires but this is my first quad so help in that area would be handy. I will adjust the clutch as well. What am I missing? If the it continues to run as good as I hope, I will put the Warn 424 in for dry riding this spring. I live in Colorado and will re-jet to the 120 main as well. I have done visual for the drive shafts and seals and they look good. Anything else, I can use all the help I can get/

 

Congratulations on the purchase. Sounds like a good machine and the Foremans in general are good machines. I run 5 psi in my tires but if you've never ridden a quad, it may feel like what you are describing until you get used to it. I would take the carb off and clean it up because I think from sitting that long, sooner or later you are going to suck up some sludge that is sitting in the float bowl. Hate to see that happen when you are 10 miles from home. Also, I would take the tank off, drain it, pull the petcock off, pull the filter screen out of the tank and clean it. Then fresh gas. When you do the brake fluid, pull the lines off at the brakes and pump the lever until all fluid is gone, then refill and bleed them. Check the tie rods for slop. Probably none with only that many hours but check anyway. Check the toe in adjustment. Check valve adjustment. Get a service manual, either Clymer or Honda. It's worth it if you want to do your own work. You might want to run it for 10 hours and change the oil again. And use Honda oil, at least for now. Short the oil by 1/2 quart and add 1/2 quart of Marvel Mystery Oil for the first few changes. That'll help free up anything that may be stuck (rings, valve seals, etc.) That's all I can think of for now.

 

Thank You, stuff I over looked and great advise. I will keep you posted. I just can't wait to get to my cabin and go SNOW riding. This thing has more power than I thought though.

 

You'll be disapointed if the snow is deeper than 5 inches or so. ATV's don't do well in snow, although they are fun in snow.

 

hi i am a new member . just bought a 2006 foreman s 700 miles , seems to be running lean .how do i adj. carb?

 

I had the 2001 450es also, even though its full time 4x4 I found the steering did not fight back much as long as your on dirt., I also have a 2007 350 Grizzly and when I steer it in 2wd or 4wd I really cant tell the differences.

Not sure the 424 kit would be worth the time and money.

470 miles is sure low. I sold mine to a friend 4 years ago and ride with him and he has 4500 miles on his. The machine never had a issue yet.