hello all new 8x8 owner here

[buckhntr17]

i recently did some trading and got a 1998 argo response the hour meter says thirteen hours. im looking for information on maintenance, what things to look for that go wrong with them,places to get with other owners and have some fun things like that. things that you cant get it books. i live in three rivers michigan anyone near here own one? or know any places close to go play.also did i get a good trade i was selling a boat for 5500 i got the argo and a brand new trailer for it it runs good battery was dead but the guy is supposed to get a new one.what kind of upgrades can i get like bigger tires and performance parts? any way ill probably be hanging out here so if you have anything to throw in that would help it would be great.what about trail rides does anyone do those?? thanks DAVE

p.s. i have some friends that do the mud truck thing and we've got a place to play it has swamps mud holes hill climbs and trails were going this weekend anyone wants to go email me buckhntr17@comcast.net

[m350]

Hi,,Just noticed your post,,,so you even traded for a boat,,selling price of $5,500,,,,I think you did OK,,these 8x8's are big $$$,,did it come with anything else ??

I traded an 05 Kawasaki Brute 750 for my 00' Argo BigFoot, 6' plow, 18" tracks, 2nd set tires/wheels, windshield,,,found it needed some tranny work,,but all is good now,,,great to go out in the pond with it.

Things to check,,,axle bearings,,jack it up and give each wheel a bearhug,,see if it moves around, any,,in,out, sideways etc,,grease the inner and outer axel bearing's, pull up the floor pan,,to get to inner grease zerks,,,check and oil the chains,,see if theres any excess play,,,make sure the tranny oil is on the stick,,or change it if in doubt,,you and freinds will have a good time in that 8x8! If it needs bearings gan get most of them locally at parts store etc. I am in eastern CT,,,so prob wont be riding together,,,have fun,,,,,later,,,Mark

[Rock Doctor]

Welcome

A '98 with only 13 hrs on it has had lots of time to sit idle. I would check everything over, change all the fluids. If any brngs need to be changed, they will probably be a bugger to get out, but keep at it, and you'll get it.

There's alot of good info here, hope you enjoy yourself.

RD

[buckhntr17]

found out the hour meter wasnt working machine runs great i did replace chains just streched and some bearing repair but all in all runs pretty good just dead spot in throttle and backfires when i shut it off im thinkin carb had it out on several rides it does pretty good but needs new tires thier gettin bald .it really was 100% better after i caught up on the maintenance issues . the guy (fred) at power on argo was very helpful and informative i cant wait to take it ice fishin. you guys got any tips and hints they will be welcome

[lewis]

welcome aboard Buck

Got a good machine with a lot of potential. Hope to see you on the site.

Here are a few things to consider:

Run a fuel additive in your machine if it sits for periods of time this will keep the carb from gumming up.

Bearings: lift the machine with all wheels off the ground and lift them up and down. If there is play you will find it. Replace these bearings and seals. Keep good chain on you machine as with anything, the cheap stuff will leave you sitting some where. I use Diamond chain, my preference. Keep the chain lubed keep water out of the tub, if a leak occurs: fix it.

If you unit does not have a skid plate, please buy one this will protect you hull, front and rear bearing extensions may be a option if you machine does not have it. You may be able to install these as a upgrade.

Keeping the engine cool, you may want to blow the fins off if possible to allow better air flow.

Washing your machine down after each ride will help you keep it up to par and you will learn about the machine. Machines left with water in the tubs don't last long.

Watch getting in and out of the machine so your trouser cuff does not jam the shifter one direction or the there or kick it with you foot. This could damage the transmission. Not quiet sure what configuration on the shifter that you have.

Keeping this in mind the machine will last a long time. These are a few things that may help you in the future. It sounds like a lot but it isn't. Keep up on the maintenance and you will have a long lasting machine.

[buckhntr17]

thanks for the advice i probably go after that carb next and while im there ill get those fins. worst thing about the machine is the poision ivy i got when out in the bog behind my house i got hung upwith 4 people in the swamp took three out and machine walked right out but the three that got out me one of them stood in the ivy unaware but it was a very fun day anyone mess with those carbs on the vanguard motors much ???? well gotta go wheelin c-ya on the trail hopefully watch out for poision ivy