Hustler 6x6 information and value

[camodad]

I am looking at getting this 6x6 and am needing any information you can give. I have been told it has a 20hp Honda engine and is about a late 80s or early 90s model. I am wanting to find out what this thing might be worth. I am looking at trading an older truck for it and don't want to get burned. Where can I find model number on unit? Would this have a title or just a bill of sale? I live in Arkansas and don't know the rules. Where can I find parts if I have to work on it? Any information that anyone can give will be greatly helpful. Thanks, Hank

[hydromike]

Hey Hank; welcome to the Site.

You're looking at a model 950 Hustler. I don't know if the model number is actually stamped anywhere, but the size of the machine, the drivetrain layout and overall accessories indicate that it's about a mid-eighties-ish 950. The 20hp Honda will be a transplant engine. Unless the previous owner went through the process of getting a title for it, it'll likely only come with a bill of sale. Parts are pretty easy to come across as far as chains, bearings, sprockets and general knick-knacks. The hardest parts to procure would be axles, if you ever needed them. They can be fabricated easily enough. The transmission and all of its internals are still manufactured and supported by Recreatives Industries, makers of the Max ATV line in Buffalo, NY.

As far as worth goes, that's ALL in the eyes of the beholder. Check out our Used ATV Buyers Guide for help on going through the machine before you drop a ton of money in cash/trade. One thing that disturbs me a bit, is that the gas tank has been mounted above the machine, rather than it's proper place under the front. It's not a huge deal, but may be a telling sign of previous owners' motivation to do things correctly. If you really need to get rid of your truck, it might be someting to look into. My El-Cheapo opinion is that this machine (from the one picture given) is that it might be worth $1500. I'm a bit pessimistic until I can see the condition of the tires (They're not making the Goodyear Rawhides any longer, if you need to replace one), the condition of the transmission (the transmission mounting cradle on the Hustlers tended to crack, bend, and brake leading to destroyed transmission mounting holes) the condition of the frame (a ton of Hustlers tended to develop cracks at almost every intersection on the frame side plates) the condition of the bearings, chains and axles.

Here's an example of one of the many broken supports on my frame.



I won't try to deter you from picking it up (it's sort of exciting, isn't it? ) , but realize that a lot of these machines require work that's often well-hidden (sometimes not intentionally by the seller) until you get it home and start going through it. I spent 2 hours with my Dad in 10 degree temps chiseling about 4" of ice out of the bottom of my 980 the day I went to look at it. I wanted to know exactly what condition it was in. I already knew I was going to get it before I looked at it anyway, but I'm on a lot of different medications.

Good luck! Let us know what you end up doing.....

mike