Looking to narrow the field on AATVs

[Basslies]

Hi all.
I benefit from knowing absolutely nothing when it comes to the AATVs. Help me by making suggestions on machines that can stand up to heavy use, are very dependable, and are less expensive to work on when they do break. I'm in Haines city FL, so if anyone is near that wouldn't mind helping get me on the right path, I'd sure appreciate it.

E-mail me at basslies@live.com

Thanks

Howard

[Mike]

Hi Howard, your best bet is to browse the forum and the photo gallery. Read up on different machines. Watch the videos people post, etc. If you will use the search to search the site, you will find several topics similar to your question that have replies already. Hang around for a few days and read what everyone has already posted. You will begin to see which ATVs would probably better suit you. Good luck in your search.

Edit: Here is a similar thread I just found using the search that should help you out some: http://www.6x6world.com/forums/gener...v-choices.html

[Basslies]

Thanks Mike
I had already read that thread, and really like where it headed.

HR

[brushcutter]

I'm really liking Dan's new Argo with the Adair tracks!

[Noel Woods]

I agree with Brushcutter. For the money, The Argo with its 23HP Briggs, Admiral transmission, lots of ground clearance, excellent build quality, and with those Adair tracks, is the best deal on the market in a new amphib. For a few thousand more, you could get the Mudd Ox. Its a bigger machine, more radical in design, more powerful, etc., and with the Adair tracks, equally unstoppable, but large. Almost too large for some applications.
I would take either machine in a heartbeat.
If you have $3-4000 to start, some mechanical skills, alot of patience, and aren't scared to get dirty, an older machine like a Hustler or Max, can be made to match the performance of the new Argo or Mudd Ox. Just be prepared to repair/modify/upgrade, etc

[Basslies]

Thanks Noel and Brushcutter. These are the kinds of comments that will help me ( of course, not taking anything from Mike's previous guidance either). I'm all for getting dirty so when I get a bit more of an idea on what to expect. I've PM one member from this general area (Central Fla.) to see if he may be able to do a point and explain with me.

Basically I know that I know nothing so far, but words are way cheaper than diving in without any idea of the details.

Thanks

HR

[brushcutter]

Noel is dead on with that one. If you're thinking of buying an older machine, look at the Max IV. Having worked extensively on both Hustler and MaxIV machines I would go with the MaxIV. RI is still in business, and therefore axle upgrades and such are easier. Try going to heavier splined or ANY other axles from the bolt through sleeve type on a Hustler if you don't believe it! IMO almost any mod or job you will need to do is gonna be easier on the Max. As for their ability in the multitudes of mud they will traverse, there are just too many variables to consider to go into that discussion, such as driver experience, equipment, tires, you could even take driver weight into the equation (either of my 13 year old sons can drive my 950 right through a hole by themselves that I just got through FIGHTING to go through- driver weight difference! Ain't that crazy! (they really get a kick out of that!)

But whatever you decide to go with ... new, old, max, argo muddox hustler - whichever - Watch the vids on the site, do the 3 Rs Read-Research-Ride (almost ANY member on this site would take you out for a ride)- then buy the machine that best fits your requirements.

I believe it was Dan Edwards who said "Be happy with the machine you have!"
I like that...