I have one of the early 400 4x4 Prarie models (early enough I have the shifter that doesn't have the release button and doesn't have the gears in a line) 97-98 year. It is still in great shape as far as I'm concerned. Only major problem was 2 years ago the rear engine seal went out (throwing oil on the insides of the back tires). Put all new tires on it last year. I was just wondering how the 300-400's have held up for others? I see there is several threads about the 360's having issues and since it's pretty much the replacement for those early ones it had me wondering. Also, I had the drive belt replaced a few years after it was new (it was a recall), how many miles should a belt be good for?

 

I have a 2000 400 4x4. Just over 5,000 miles. Replaced primary clutch and belt around 3000. Rear diff seal around 4000.

Starting to notice some water intrusion in the rear diff. Can't figure out where it's getting in.

Replaced the tires once with Carlisle 489s. Now the fronts are in need of replacement and the 489 rears will last thru another set of fronts.

Pretty trouble free and it's like a tank. Not the fastest but will always get you there.

Oh, and I removed the key that is activated by the gearshift button to prevent accidentally going into low or reverse. Lubed the shifter pivot point too. Works great.

Seem to go thru a battery every 4-5 years, which I consider normal. My 2001 Honda TRX250 is still on the OEM battery, knock on wood.

 

I believe I am on just the second battery. Had it tested this past weekend and was told it's still good. Pretty good just two batteries in 16 years.

For front tires I'd recommend something from GBC tires. I have the Carlisle ones on the back as they were the only ones offered for that size the places I looked and were priced best. Go through Amazon or TireDirect.com, they have the best prices I found.

 

My 2006 is still in good shape, with very little service work done yet.

-TH

 

Here is some owner revives on a 1999 model. Vehicle Reviews for 1999 Kawasaki Prairie 400 4X4

Check the diff's small vent air hose connection that goes to the air box.

 

I'll check the vent hose to see where it ends up and that it doesn't have any leaks. I was thinking mine terminated somewhere outside the airbox but I'll check it.

I also silicone the speedo gear housing just to help ensure that wasn't it.

I don't think it is getting in thru the brake side. I don't even know if it could, and I saw no signs of water in there when I pulled it to lube the stupid big multi-lipped o-ring thingy.

Never could figure out the paraffin thing for that ring so I coated all of it in waterproof grease.

 

Can't offer much on the 400's other than watch the swingarm bearings, but that's pretty much any quad, but will comment on the battery thing... I was also amazed at how the stock batteries held up on the Kawies as compared to some of the other brand bikes I have.

Bought my Prairie new in 2002 and didn't have to replace the first battery till 2010... 8 years is awesome for a battery...