    
jerrynuss (66.20.225.33)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 22, 2005 - 03:36 pm: | 
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My experience low hours doesn't have much to do with the expected maintenance or keeping the machine running. I bought one with low hours but found out no up keep had been done on the machine.
I did a crosscountry ebay buy. I would not do this again and expect to use it without a full tear down and inspection. If you get to test drive one then that is great, look for knocking, slapping, grinding noises. Check to see if it is clean under the floor boards if there is dirt and rust I'd pass on it. Check the chains for wear and half links or multiple master links. Check the sprockets for bad teeth or sharp bent teeth. Jack it up and put the brake on and try rotating the wheels by had and push in and out on them to check bearing slop.
Fortunately the parts are not very expensive and last a while if maintained.
There is the usual oil changes on the motor and transmission. This is not expensive.
Then do a good lube and cleaning frequently. A machine that is used a lot in deep water or deep mud will require more upkeep than a machine used in dry grass and loose dirt trails.
Chains and sprockets can be a big expense if they need to be replaced. I spent around $400 on chain, but now they should last a while with upkeep.
Brakes are a system to keep a close eye on but are relatively inexpensive. Brake pads cost me $20 and master cylinder rebuild kits are under $20 for both. On any used Argo with hydraulic brakes I recommend just rebuilding the whole system. Calipers, and master cylinders and cleaning or replacing the pads. They use DOT #5 fluid which is a silicone fluid that resists mositure.
I've seen used ones with multiple owners and normally DOT #3 gets put in and the brakes start to have problems with moisture.
There are some inexpensive plastic pieces for chain tensioners, and keep the flanges tight.
Basic operatng costs are not bad, bent axles, stripped sprockets and things like that can get expensive. The harder you work it the more expensive it can become. Do basic work and be sensible and it is not that expensive.
The fun factor is worth the extra time spent keeping the inner lower tub clean and everything lubed.
Are you buying from a dealer or someone you know and have an accurate history of the machine? |
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