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With the economy the way it is today, buying a used atv just makes more sense than buying a new one. Just be aware that there are certain things that a person looking for a used atv needs to be on the watch for. The easy to follow tips below will help a new atv buyer or a seasoned buyer choose a used atv that will provide them with fun fourwheeling for a long time. Just be patient and look over the machine real well. Ask questions and take the machine for a spin. What do the tires look like? If they're worn out or full of plugs and patches, this could indicate abuse or lack of proper maintenance. Also, if the tread is worn down, you'll looking at the purchase of four new atv tires! Take a long a buddy so the atv can be raised for inspection. You'll want to look for cracks on the underside of the frame, new paint, damage to the shock points or signs of fresh paint (indicates recent repairs). 4x4 atvs need a special looking over. You need to check the cv boots for cracks. This can mean water and dirt in the cv joints. This will lead to expensive repairs down the road. Milky or chocolate colored oil in the engine or differentials means water has gotten in there. This can lead to other problems that you probably don't want to pay for. It's best you keep looking should you find water in either of these places. Be sure to look at the sprocket or sprockets. If the sprockets are worn on one side or bent, it's likely time for a new chain and sprocket. Support the front end with jack stands. Then try to move each front wheel in and out from top to bottom and side to side to check for worn wheel bearings and ball joints. Do the same for the rear. Loose tie rod ends can be found by moving the handle bars in and out. These should be replaced if the play is excessive. This can be dangerous on rough terrain or at high speeds. The air box is one place many used atv buyers fail to check. You can find it beneath the seat by removing it. Dirt or water inside the air box is bad news. The gas tank needs inspected for rust. You can do this easily by using a flashlight and shining it down into the tank. Rust in a gas tank can clog up fuel lines, fuel filters and carbs. Make sure you test the lights and accessorie jack. Be sure to look for corroded connections around the battery and any previously repaired electrical wiring. Don't forget to take the machine out for a spin. See how the atv handles. Are there any loose parts? Is it hard to start? Does it accelerate properly? Try braking hard a few times to test the brakes. Does the exhaust have the spark arrestor in place? Many owners remove these. However, National Forest and other public trails require spark arrestor's to be in place. Owners without them can be fined and prevented from riding in these places. By following these simple tips, you'll go a long ways in ensuring that the used atv you purchase will give you trouble free performance for a long time.
Article Source: http://www.ezine-directory.info
Purchasing a pre-owned atv isn't for anyone. But if you know what you're doing, you can save thousands over a dealer. New buyers should follow the tips above plus by a reputable brand like a pre-owned Honda atv or pre-owned Polaris atv. Parts are easy to find for these models.
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