I want to buy a LT 500 to restore, can someone give me an idea on what they are worth in what conditions. I plan on buying one that needs to be restored, and I will probably completly rebuild the bike. I would like to read up on these bikes a little more can someone let me know where to find more info on them. I really need to find out what they are worth before I buy one so I don't screw myself. Thanks, Chad

 

http://www.off-road.com/atv/qra/intro.html
this link should help you out

 

I bought a Basketcase 1987 Zilla for $1,000 only because he had a reciept for $750 in engine work (bored, new piston etc.) SO I figured $250 was fair for the other parts.

I got screwed. It was in way worse shape than I thought. It was missing major pieces and since I was unfamiliar with it I did not know from the parts I had what was missing.

I have replaced or rebuilt everything.

Just recently we tried starting the motor.... It was cross bored and screwed up. The water pump seal had dried out and needed to be rebuilt, now the clutch was smoked and they over torqued the clutch basket when they place rebuilt the engine. So it ate a few parts including the inner hub and clutch basket. So I have put ANOTHER $750+ into a motor I though was a-ok.

I am into my Zilla about $5500 to $6000 but that included purchase price. I did ALOT of e-baying to find deals or that price would be even higher.

I got screwed. Look for a running one. Even if it is in bad shape you can test the brakes, clutch, power, look for leaks etc. Make sure the frame is straight also. Look for cracks in the swingarm. Make sure the bearings are greased. The entire quad is set up with needle bearings and as I found they are spendy to replace and most people do NOT grease them and wore most stuff flat.

If I could do it again I would get a running 88 to 90 because alot of stuff is specific to 87 and makes it harder for some parts BUT there are alot of 87's out there.

I am sure all my bitching will go away when I can finally ride it and see how it does.

Any other questions feel free to ask. I also have lots of pics of the build up.

 

Take a look at my zillas I just finished. I was going to sell my 89 for $4000 you think thats to cheap. Has never been ridden and engine is a complete rebuild including all new engine bearings and polished. Also everything has been powdercoated and replaced to new condition.

 

If I had to do it again I would buy one like that. Even if it didn't have the pipe I wanted or something it would be ready. Very nice quad !

Here is a link to my album.....

Imagestation Album

 

I for something that would be a good winter project, because I don't work during the winter. I don't know much about them, but I am wanting to start collecting a few vintage quads. But I really want to learn more about them. would like 1800 be good for a running quad that is in rough shape, but everything works.

 

Honestly? If it was running but rought I would offer 1500 to 1000 depending on shape. Plastic is spendy so keep that in mind when lookings. Also some things on the engine can get spendy quick so if they don't "know" specifics on the engine be wary.

I bought it because I thought I was getting a deal and a Zilla is onr I want like a Tri Z, 250R Trike, a 250R Fourtrax and Tecate are all in my wish list.....

 

Hey icecleric, I would love to see those pics of your build up. I am doing myne also and would love to see and maybe get some ideas.

 

Should be that link in my post. Let me know if it doesn't work. maybe I can e-mail you an invite to it. my e-mail is icecleric@yahoo.com