subject: Selecting A Solid Used Atv [print this page] Lots of people are able to rush out and purchase a new ATV from a dealer. Many of us are unable do that. We may not want to pay such a high price or have the money to put on such a large purchase. If you are thinking of buying a used ATV, there are some things you will want to look for when checking the ATV. You still want to make sure you are acquiring a safe and good running ATV, even if you aren't buying new.
You can often make yourself a very good purchase when buying a used ATV, by carefully inspecting the ATV from top to bottom. If you don't feel comfortable doing this yourself, you can always take it to a repair shop and have a mechanic give it the once over. This is most important when buying from an individual owner instead of a local dealership. Try to find a good mechanic who specializes in ATVs and ATV repair. This may cost you $100 or so, but will be worth making sure you aren't purchasing a pile of junk. If you don't want to spend the fee the mechanic will charge, here are some things you should look for when giving the prospective ATV a thorough look over.
Carefully check the plastic fenders and check for any damage in the plastic. The fenders may need replacing if the have cracks or are missing portions of plastic. Replacement fenders, like all parts for an ATV, are very expensive. The condition of the plastic will also give you a good idea about how the ATV was used and treated. It can indicate if it was ridden hard, and it if has been well taken care of.
Check the headlights to make sure they turn on and work correctly. Look the lens covers and make sure they are intact with no cracks or chips. Make certain the seat cover doesn't have tears in it, or isn't overly worn. All these things will cost a lot if they have to be replaced or repaired..
Checking the undercarriage is quite important. You may have to get some help to get the front end up in the air to do this. Get it up on jack stands, or a lift, for a very close look. Look closely at the frame, checking for any cracks or dents in the framework of the undercarriage. Also look for signs of excessive rust.
Be sure to check the bike for play in the wheels. Wheel bearings or ball joints need replacing, if there is a lot of play in the wheels, which again is quite expensive. Also be sure to check for play in the handlebars and steering column. Give the wheels and tires a good look, seeing if there are any bent rims or plugs in the tires. See if the tires still have plenty of rubber left on them. Replacing tires is very expensive business.
Don't forget to check the condition of the oil. Remove the dipstick and have a look at it. Make sure the oil looks clean, and isn't thick or looks black like sludge. You are probably going to have motor problems and need expensive repairs before long, if the oil is nasty. Check that the air filter and air box aren't full of dirt and dust. There might be a lot of dirt in the air chamber, if the air filter that hasn't been cleaned or changed on a regular basis.
Shop carefully, and you will be able to get yourself a good deal on a used ATV, and it can run well for years. Use your common sense and be cautious when you decide to buy a used ATV. Try to check out everything you can possibly think of, or have a mechanic look at the bike to be sure it is a good one.
