I keep hearing early model raptors have so many problems.When did the corrected models first appear?

ferd350CT,

I fully understand your concerns but nobody seems to know which batch of VIN numbers have problems including Yamaha. There is a fix for the carb problem with the boots coming off. My understanding is that Yamaha will replace the boots free of charge for anyone who experiences the problem. As far as the trannys go, many have said it is those under VIN# 006000. If you do a lot of advanced searches on this forum, I would bet a majority of those that experienced the problem are in fact under VIN 6000; however, there are others that are above 6000 too.

I can tell you that one of the quickest ways to blow out 2nd gear is to drag race on pavement.

/NotuRaptor

When did the corrected models first appear? Try the 2002 model. How many times must this be said? A 2001 is a 2001 is a 2001!!! There were NO updates to the trans during that model year run! If you are truly worried about trans failure, then DON'T buy a 2001! I dumped my 2001 and bought a 2002, precisely because I didn't want to worry about an inevitable grenading transmission on the early model.

Although Scottd makes a good point that you might be better off spending the extra bucks and getting the 2002, it is not inevitable that all 2001s are going to experience a tranny failure.

/NotuRaptor

This is true, NotuRaptor. But knowing how MY luck runs sometimes, I sure didn't want to take the chance! I sincerely hope you are one of the lucky ones that doesn't experience any failures. Happy Riding!

Is it the last 4 digits of the serial# that indicates the build number?

the serial number is the last few (4,5 maybe 6 by now)digits in the vin #
my vin # is in the 4400 range and my riding partner is 3700 range, neither of us has had any problems if you check the postings you will find it is not related to vin #'s (even some 02's are having the problem), many of us think it is either a gear production problem or an assembly problem

I find it interesting to see the vin# 6000 being thrown about. Especially since I have raptor number 5999! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

For the record, I've got about 20-25 hours on it and problems include: blown rear shock seal, and a some minor tranny adjustments.

My trans problem was that it popped out of 2nd and reverse. I took it in for the first service and some warranty work (the shock) and all seems well now. I told them about the trans, but from what I understand all they did is adjust the clutch

Thanks for all the responses.I can't afford to have my quad breaking down.I'm a polaris owner already(in shop).I may have to go Honda.