I recently purchase a bike that is in good shape. I had to replace a leaking head gasket and am in the process of changing all of the fluids. With help of the manual I have changed the radiator fluid, transmission fluid and the counter balance drain (filling it back up was a real pain), Hub oil was simple and that was done. One of my questions is near the drain for the counterbalance (the counterbalance is more in the middle underneath) to the left near the starter is a drain. What is that for? Is that the recoil drain? Nothing was in there but a few drops of black stuff. Am I missing where to fill it? Is there another fluid to change? Also besides checking and oil the chain anything else I should check for? The bike rides good and is more fun I think than my banshee was like to keep it in good shape.
Thanks for your response from this great forum.

 

There is a drain for the recoil. I have been forced to use it recently as my counterbalance shaft seal weeps a little and the fluid ends up in both my recoil starter housing as well as in my electric starter. Something to watch for. It is important to keep chain well lubed and chain tension adjusted properly. Also, be sure to grease the maching in all locations. Keep an eye on your front shocks as they have a tendency to leak or take on water after a time.

 

thanks I put everything back together last night and she is purring great. Can't wait to get it out this weekend.

 

You will enjoy the Explorer, I bought a 1995 400 Explorer new and rode it until May of this year. Basically I cleaned and oiled the chains twice a year, changed the front brakes once, replaced the sending unit for the fan, replaced the belt twice, and drove it. I did change the hub oil, counter balance oil, and transmission fluid once. The only reaason I sold it was because I ride in the mountains twice a year and it didn't have EBS. Good atv, you will enjoy it.
I bought a new 500 HO and thus far I like it.

 

good luck with your new bike. I love the power of the two strokes. Mine is bored a little but mainly stock. I think I am going to keep it that way reading about it seems the best way to keep it together.