Bolted to splined axle conversion

[Rusty-Gunn]

Hello. I'm looking to buy a used Max IV. One that is two thousand dollars cheaper
has bolted axles and round headlights. The other has splined axles (2002).
Is it expensive to eventually change out the axles?
Are they simple substitues?
Do berrings/flanges/etc need to be done as well?
Would the frame need to be modified?
What years are "weak" frames? (thoughy I read this)
Am I missing anything I should know about?
Thank you.

[phabib]

I recently priced this and it was going to run about $2000 in parts. You need axles and sprocket tubes. I don't know if you must replace the bearings, but they're cheap compared to the rest of the stuff and you might as well. They'll add under $200 to the cost and you won' thave to do it again for a while. My '94 (bolted axles and round lights) did not have the frame reinforcements so I got the kit from RI and welded it in. I don't remember the price for sure, but I want to say $80.

[THenry]

does this apply to a max II as well on the axle changing?? I just traded for a max II with bolted axles and round headlights its about a '84. it does not have the bearing inboard in the frame just one at the tub??

[Rusty-Gunn]

Two thousand in parts? So much for the two thousand dollars lower price savings.
I might as well go for the newer model. In the long run it will save me some grief.
Thank you.

[akranger72]

Yes at least $2000 to upgrade, go with a newer if you can.

[Rusty-Gunn]

Yes. I had better go with a newer model. If I'm paying close to two thousand to
ship a Max to northern Alaska I might as well buy a better one.