I am about to buy a new scrambler 400 or 500 and was just wondering about the reliability and performance of both. Thanks.

 

justhonda- couldnt help notice your screen name and that you say your getting ready to buy a polaris. guess youll have to change that screen name. I cant really speak for long term reliability of my 00 Scrambler 500 as ive only had it three weeks, but i can tell you its an awesome quad. Good luck- i think youll be extremely happy with either the 400 or the 500.

 

I have a 99 400 Scrambler. It has been very reliable. The only area I've had any trouble is on the front guard for the radiator. 3 of the 4 screws that hold it in place have fallen out. I've replace the lower 2 with bolts and applied some loctite. The top 2 I used the manufactures screws and applied loctite also. No other troubles. If you purchase one I would recommend loctite on those fasteners.
Scott.

 

I have a 95 400 and my brother has a 99 400.

This is what I have repaired on mine since I got it last year:

Brakes
Battery
Output shaft bearing
Middle Bearing Carrier bearings and seals
Rear Bearing Carrier bearings and seals
Starter Rebuild
Chain tensioner (3 times)

All can be explained to 5 year old machine. I would say that I am relatively happy with the machine. You can't get a automatic 4 wheel drive with electric start and reverse, sport machine anywhere else! (Girlfriend loves it).

The quality is always improving. I haven't had to do anything to the motor. I run the Gold Synthetic Polaris oil and Premium Gas. I change all fluids twice a year, and the motor fluids 2 more times.

I will have to get it ready for the winter with lubing all the cables and controls, and changing the fluids once again.

My brothers is brand new and his 4 wheel drive kicked out after about 4 weeks of use. They replaced an electronic part and it works fine. He seems extremely happy with his. In fact he is so happy, he bought my 99 Explorer 400 when I bought my 400EX.

In my opinion, polaris has answered the reliability of the '4 wheel chain drive' adjustment/maintenance issue on the scramblers. My 95 uses 3 chains to operate the 4 wheel drive. The rear requires an aftermarket chain tensioner (which I have broken 3 times), and the other chains are just messy to keep lubricated.

On the 99, the rear chain is now concentric so adjustment is only really done at break in time, and the shaft drive to the front keeps the mess down. (My only concern would be the front differential is now another part with fluids and seals, but it should be better than the 95 setup).

If the Scrambler is what you are looking for, you will have a blast. I just looked at Hot Seat (to get another spring for the chain tensioner) and they have kits which take the 36hp 400 to 60HP!

So look forward to many years out of the existing engine, and many more years of a modified engine.

I can't imagine what 60HP would be like. It already goes like a rocket. (You should really see it in the winter on the ice. The 4 wheel drive and studs with just the 36HP stock is awesome. 60HP would be extreme.)

If you are looking for the Scrambler then the 400 is great. I haven't ridden or don't know of anyone personally who has a 500 so look to the other guys here for their opinion.

Good luck,

RM



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99 400EX 95 Scrambler 400 85 LT250R