My First Amphibious ATV Info

[root2812]

I am new to 6x6world and I am researching a few models so I will be ready when I have money to buy my first machine (hopefully this spring). Alot of you guys are experienced with the diffferent models and I'd like some info.

I am mostly interested in a Scrambler or a Sur-trek because I like the style of them. I also want to find a solid platform to start with so that I can rebuild the machine and learn about it. By solid I mean, that the body isn't badly cracked and most of the parts are there.

Do any of you think either of these would make good starting machines? And what would be a good price range for one? If you know of any other models you think would be good for me let me know.

-Greg

[Mike]

What are your mainly planning to do with the AATV? Trail riding, working, hunting? And what kind of terrain to you have? Mainly snow, mud, dirt, sand, etc?

If you are planning on trail riding at all I would lean towards the Scrambler since it skid steers. The Sur Trek would take a much larger radius to turn. That's just my first thought.

[Amphiman1]

First aatv!

Hi, and welcome! remember that most Scramblers do not have reverse too.
I suggest, the best trail machines are 1) Amphicat, 2) attex, then maybe a Maxll...

[root2812]

Thanks for those suggestions Amphiman. I will take a look at those models. You are definately right about the reverse, that was my main concern about the scrambler. To answer Mikes question, I am not sure yet. I haven't ever used an aatv before but with my 4 wheeler I trail ride and mud alot so I am going to assume thats what I will like to do.

I do plan on sticking with older machines because I like the looks and I want simple mechanics. The build is the part I am most excited about and I have little experience with machines at all so its going to be a learning experience.

Thank you both

[Mike]

Since you trail ride then I would stay away from the Sur Trek. They are cool machines just not the best for trails. Also keep in mind things like parts. The amphicat may be harder to get parts for. Max and Argo are still around so you can always get parts for those even if they are a little pricey. Also there are enough Attex guys on here to come up with parts for those if you need them.

So I would say Argo, Attex, or Max. The best thing to do is watch videos and read up online some. Narrow your choices down to just one or two and then find someone close to you and go try it out. Test them for yourself and make a decision from there.

Good luck and whatever you decide, as long as you're going amphibious you are going to have fun.

[Amphiman1]

First AATV

Gee i don't know Mike, sure are alot of broken " t 20's" around, and seems costly with regular rebuilds etc.. Amphicats are over the counter parts. easy to get.(no T20) As a few guy's i know have told me, want to get towed home, buy a max..Argo's seem to speak for them selves. high priced problems from the factory, that need a winch..But Attex Seems the best bet for a beginner, they seem to last a while though.,

[hydromike]

Oh, come on A-man...

Gee i don't know Mike, sure are alot of broken " t 20's" around,

And a much larger majority that seem to hold up extremely well. I'm thinking of one in particular that was made in 1972, and has spent the last 6 of its' 37 years (without being rebuilt) behind a 52 horsepower ultralight aircraft engine. I think a T-20 powered machine is a pretty good bet. In all fairness, I have broken one, but that was because I didn't put it back together right. That was only a 40ish hp machine though....

Amphicats are over the counter parts. easy to get

RI kinda has a parts counter. More of a desk upstairs. I've been there. Never for T-20 parts though. I'm pretty sure you could pretend to reach over the desk for "over the desk" parts if you wanted.

But Attex Seems the best bet

This beginner agrees.

~M

[Don]

So I would say Argo, Attex, or Max.

Absolutely, but I'd add Hustler to the list. They're tough as nails and there's a growing group of owners/riders that are always willing to help out.

[Amphiman1]

hustlers,,,,,

i was waiting for jp to jump on that one..

[brushcutter]

Ya know you CAN put 25" Mudbugs on a Hustler 950 ... if ya can find 'em...