I'm probably going to go look at a used KFX 400... 2006 model.

The lady says the axle is bent.
I don't know rather to think this is a chance to get 'a steal'...
Or if I should worry about additional items...
Or if I should just run away...


I have no idea at all how strong the stock axles are, what it would take to bend one, etc... so I am lost.

Anyone else bent an axle, or just replaced and axle for a better one, etc?

How much work and money are we talking here?

What else should I look at on the bike for damage due to the bent axle?
I'm thinking...
Frame for cracks
Swingarm for cracks
Swingarm bearings
Shock mounts
Etc...

 

I have not bent one myself, and the stock z400 axle is pretty strong and it would take a nice hit to bend one....

The only thing to really worry about is if the swing arm was damaged also..... not likely since the z400 has a strong box back there but it is possible...also the rims could be bent, rear brake could be damaged.....etc.....

Depending on what kind of deal you are getting it is worth it..... since a new axle is probably all you will need. Unless the thing was hit by a car or something really major happened a new axle is not that big of a deal......

 

I've bent the Axle on my Scrambler. I thought I would upgrade to a "stronger axle". It doesn't take very long to replace an axle, however I do have one recommendation. I ordered a Durablue/Duracrap axle, THREE TIMES!. Durablue sent me the wrong axle three times.... I even got out a micrometer and sent them the EXACT dimensions. Still, sent the wrong axle. I finally gave up and ordered another stock axle and have had it for two years now. Beware of the Duracrap!

 

Replacing the axle is fairly easy. While you are at it, I would just replace the carrier bearings as well. They don't cost much, and you have to remove the axle to do it. I agree, it takes a good hit to bend an axle, so the machine has probably been ridden hard or at least been in one hard crash. I would be encouraged that the axle was disclosed, but you will still want to go over the quad with a fine tooth comb.

 

i bent mine on my raptor 700 and got the rpm domantor alxe 2. i would highly recomend it. it has a lifetime warrenty on it. the durablues have somewhat of a lifetime warrenty. they just started where the first one is free but after that there is kinda like a co-pay. the service from rpm was top notch also. got my axle on at my door in 3 days.