I'm looking to buy a quad, and have found a 2000 Explorer 400 that seems to be in good condition. I like the 2 stroke as I've heard they're pretty quick and cheaper to rebuild than a 4 stroke. I definately want a 4x4, and I think these had a low range, which would be good to have.

What I want to know is if there's something to look out for when buying a used one, and how good the drivetrain is on these models. I know it doesn't have engine braking, so how good are the brakes. I'm about 250 lbs, so I think this machine would be a good one for me. I ride mostly trails but like something quick for when I'm on the logging roads.

Sorry for the long post but I want to be sure to buy the right quad the first time.

 

They are a good quad. The brakes are fine for stoping that machine. Check the compression if posible and check the counter balance oil. If the counter balance oil is dirty or milky could be a bad sign, but isn't the end of the world.

 

Great machine and it will pull your 250 lbs good my 400 Sportsman pulls my 225 lbs up any hill I try.

 

I have a 1995 Explorer bought it new and have enjoyed it over the years. The only negative I can say is the engine braking, I go to the Nantahala National Forest twice a year to ride trails. The brakes do work well, however the engine braking would be a plus. As far as running I just don't want to go any faster and mine is stock.
I personally like the two-stroke, every time I get off or it I run the gas out of it. I have changed the sending unit for the fan, the belt twice including the cover once, the brake pads once and that is all. It has been a good four wheeler. Mine has the three chains, and they are still original. I clean and oil them about twice a year.

 

My Neighbor traded his 2000 400 xplorer after many problems with it. He went through 4 sets of tie rod ends, rebuilt starter and new brushes twice. STeering STem was Constantly loose, Swingarm was constantly loose (these areas use bushings instead of roller bearings I believe). The Motor was great and flawless, never any issues with it and plenty of power. I had a 96 300 with all the same issues other than the starter problems. I also could never keep anything tight on it, the swingarm, steering, shocks.. But again the motor was great.
My neighbor put about 1300 miles on his before trading it on a different brand.

Ron
04 Sportsman 400

 

I have a 1999 Xplorer, the one-chain unit like the 2000 would be. So far I have replaced the belt, plus put about $50 in the clutches (buttons, bushings), replaced the brakes, outer tie rod ends, center steering bushing, 2 CV boots, chain & both sprockets, and did a top end rebuild (cost about $200 which included a new piston). I grease it regularly, so the chassis is still tight, and change all fluids regularly. The hubs haven't given me one days worth of trouble (change hub fluid 2X per year).

Yea, it kind of sounds like I did a lot to it, but did I mention I have 9300+ miles on it so far?

I'd recommend an Xplorer to anybody. It has always started, always run, and never yet made me walk home. This from the guy who siezed 3 engines in another brand of ATV from working them too hard (the liquid cooling really helps in that department).

 

I own a 200 400 exp. if you get one buy a repair manual. not saying this to scare you but these machines do need need regular maint. ie chain and fluids. If you get an expl. and get out there umungst the lesser of 4 wheelersyou will see what a gem you gots; I canbeat almost any off the line even with oversized tires. mine is stock mud......I go thru and pull the rest out. If you want a 4 w thaat is hands off look else where. If you want an over achiever, get it