I AM A HONDA MAN AND HERE LATELY HAVE RAN UP ON SOME CHEAP DEALS ON SOME OLDER POLARIS 4X4'S. THE ONE THAT I AM MOST INTERESTED IN IS A 99 MODEL 425 MAGNUM. I AM NOT FAMILAR WITH CHAIN DRIVE ON A 4X4. I WAS WONDERING IF THEY WERE JUST AS RELIABLE AS A SHAFT. IF NOT WHAT PROBLEMS MIGHT I EXPECT OUT OF ONE. ALSO HOW HARD ARE THE 4WD SYSTEM TO WORK ON. THANKS.

 

They didnt make a 425 Magnum in 99 just 95-98.The 3 chain system is a good strong set up but you have to stay after the chains to keep them adjusted.

 

I have one with 6000 miles on it, been a good machine, put new chains and sprockets on at about 4000, like fwith said, you have to feep them oiled and adjusted properly so thjey will last.

 

I've got a chain drive Magnum. Yes, it works. I wouldn't buy another ATV with chain drive though. I'm constantly having to mess around with the chain. I have to lube it every other day. I have to watch the play in the chain like a hawk. If it gets too loose you can end up throwing the chain, wrecking sprockets and even breaking cases if it gets tangled up right. Oh and when it decides to throw a chain it's always in a convenient place like in the middle of a creek far from home.

Chains are just a pain. I'll never own another machine that has one. Yes, it works fine and it has been a reliable unit overall but I HATE having to be constantly dicking around with the chain. I need my ATV for work on my farm and for riding trails when the work is done. I hate taking time to clean and lube the chain and having to crawl around on the ground tightening the chain all the time. Never fails when i have stuff I need to do in a hurry the chain needs attention.

 

My brother has an old Sportsman 400 2-stroke with 3 chains that he says are a PITA to keep adjusted all the time. Great machine other than that.

 

The front and middle chain stay adjusted pretty well, the rear one takes a beating, but I can adjust it in 5 minutes, no big deal, if you jack up the rear wheels and put it in low gear the chains will all turn so u can lube them.

 

I always had trouble keeping the front chain tight.But I dont have to worry anymore