Is it worth it?

[bigdalk]

Hello,
I just signed up to this forum and this is my first post. My name is Josh and I'm from Birmingham Al. I've always been intrigued by these machines and have found what seems to be a good deal. I wanted to get some input from you guys. There's a 1997 Max IV T600 that I can get for $900 maybe $800 if I try. It has the 26" tire package, solid axles, and a roll cage. Has the briggs 18hp vanguard v twin. As of now, the machine has been sitting for around 2 years. I know that it will need the carb rebuilt or cleaned and I'll need to change all fluids, etc. I can probably dump some gas in the intake to start it. Therefore, I probably won't be able to drive it more than a few seconds. What do you all think? Any tips or recommendations to check this thing out before I dive in head first? The manufacturer said that the tranny is worth $1K by itself. What say ye?

[6X6]

Hi Josh. Welcome to the forum. The tranny goes for alot for a fresh rebuilt from the MFG, but I've seen as high as $530 on E-bay for an excellent shape opened up to prove it, more for 300-400. Still 800-900 could be a good deal.
1) Look at the chains, if there adjusted properly make sure the adjusters aren't at the end of their range. If they are, new chains. If they're real loose, figure some adjustment needed, and if that puts you to the limit or beyond, same thing.
2)If you can get it off the ground, put the tranny in neurtal and spin each tire on each side. (All 3 on a side will spin but do each, and feel for "play" in the bearing.) If they're gritty or sloppy, they'll need to be changed. Bearings aren't a lot of money, but can be a pain to change.
3)Make sure the plungers in the T-20 don't come too far out when pushing/pulling on the sticks (Lookup T-20 adjustment I am not sure of the service limit) if they come too far out the bands are worn, and the tranny may need to be rebuilt.
4) IF the sticks come out too far/ or to the point you can see the o-ring try to get at the fill plug on the tranny (It's not easy on a max IV) and use something flexible as a dip stick to make sure it has RED ATF fluid in it. If it has gear oil, pass on the deal, if it's empty, I'd pass on it. If it's burnt, talk him down at least to cover $300 in bands and $50? for gaskets/seals/o-rings, and you're time.

Just look everything over. The above is what I've seen so far as problems at least kind of unique to these machines. Otherwise they are very basic, easy to work on, and not many potential hidden problems. An $900 Max IV can be a great deal, but if you don't check it over, it can turn into a $1900 Max IV quickly.
Good luck, and if you can post a couple pictures, you man get better answers from some of the MAX experts.
John

[bigdalk]

thanks for the info. Unfortunately I didn't get to see this before buying. I had to act quick. I'll post some pics as soon as I get the chance and keep you all updated on the progress. I can't wait to get this thing fired up.

[new2memax4]

assume that means ya bought it.congrats How wrong can you go for 900??.I spent more than that for one that only has the 22" tires,needed new chains carb cleaning and t-20 adjusted and fluid change.Great toy to have and play with.the other folks on this site had either directly answered or steered me in the right direction for all the service it needed.Fairly simple mechanical monster it is, and once you learn how to drive it ,very impressive.Caution - ya think it will simply plow thru anything and usually will but not till ya learn how to make it do it.Great fun been stuck couple times but the more i drive it the better it goes. have fun.

[bigdalk]

Yep, here she is when I brought her home. I've already drained and flushed the gas tank, replaced some of the fuel line, replaced fuel filter, changed oil, cleaned carb and fuel pump. Started her up for the first time in two years on the first pull (still need a battery). The chains do need some attention. They have a good bit of rust on them and I'll probably go ahead and replace them with standard #50. Other than that, everything seems to work fine. She still needs some rattle can treatment and some TLC. I'll post an after pic here soon. Thanks for all of the advice. - Josh

[new2memax4]

looks good, fired up first pull has to be very encouraging.

[MarshallEpp]

Congrats on your purchase and welcome to the forum.looks like a fine machine.

[Mike]

Looks like you did pretty well. Congratulations.

[6X6]

Looks quite good for 900! And firing right up is a big plus. Hopefully you'll have some drive time on it real soon.