I'm looking at picking up a 97 explorer 400 that only has 1100 original miles on it and seems to be in real nice shape.
any advice on issues with that particular model or things to look for would be much appreciated.

 

Water pump seals,plus oil pumps located on the front of the machine(bad idea) Best to look over this pdf manual as this is a machine that has a lot of maintenance items that you need to keep on top of.Index of /ORV Manuals/Polaris/1996-1998 - All Models

 

I sure appreciate that OPT, the price on this machine is cheap and it would just be a bike for the wife and kids. the miles are really low and it is very clean, looks like it hasn't had much use. It is at the local dealer so I will make sure that they have checked it over top to bottom.