How many hours can you expect from a Max Atv

[cowdog]

I was just wondering how many hours can you expect from a Max on chains bearings and water seals? Is the T-20 easier on the drive system than Argo?

[bierbower37]

My max is well over 200 hours with everything original except 2 bearings which due to being over greased by a previous owner went bad. Overall all though it all comes down to maintnance and more maintanance. You keep fluids good, lube, and chains tight it can last 12 years like mine. Same goes with the quality of parts you use...search for some threads on chain on here and see how saving a buck will bite you. And finally how hard you run them is key to prolonged life.

[cowdog]

Thanks for the reply. I am just wandering which is the least costly to maintain between Max and Argo and which one is easiest to maintain. I know both are good machines I just wandered if the max is cheaper over the life of the machine. I know that no machine will last if not properly greased and oiled but which of the two is more cost efficient.

[bierbower37]

One big thing the max has an advantage is the common sources for a lot of the parts on the machine. They are truly a very simple machine once you take the time to learn it. For bearing replacement on a single axle on a max is only around 20 dollars for the bearings so thats usually your big cost on these machines next to chain. The chain on a max is single while argos use the double strand not sure on the prices, but I do know hands down thats more expensive.
Do a thread search on here a lot of the people on here own both and love them equally. All i know is i would buy another max in a heartbeat.

[thejunkman]

i have always felt that max was cheaper to maintain they are a very good machine and easy to work on Argos are very good too but expensive and a pain in the ass to swap out motors and axles im not bashing Argos at all but maxs to me are the way to go to have fun with and enjoy and they are true 6 wheel drive..just my 2 cents.

[timothy]

i did some looking around and also found the the MAX sits in the water better than an ARGO. i have the the MAX BUFFALO TRUCK. not as fast as the max II or the max IV, but love the power! i don't have an hour meter but it is 12 years old and it's mint.

[Groundhog]

I have been running a Max II for ~15 years with no major breakage. I do extensive cleaning and lubing after every ride.

[Dirty Harry]

My '96 Max II is still running strong. I've replaced the axles at all 4 corners with solid ones as each has been accidentally bent over the years in riding "mishaps" that would likely never have happened if I'd just paid up front for the solid axle option when I originally bought it. (20/20 hindsight)

I did replace the chains several years ago with John Deere stuff and haven't had much adjustment on it since - but then I don't beat it up when I ride, either. I also upgraded the factory side exit exhaust with a rear-exiting unit from Richard's Relics. Expensive, but much nicer sound levels now.

My 1996 Max II has an 18hp Briggs and the Goodyear Rawhide II 22" tire option. Newer Maxes have dual axle bearings & o-ring chains, which offer a much better ride, less maintenence and an extended life versus the older design.

Never owned an Argo, but ridden in them and didn't like the cramped front due to engine being in the front, plus the noise & engine heat coming back at you. Also didin't care for the way the front end sits so much lower in the water, but that's just me. What I do love about them is the extra seating and the very nice high-low tranny. I'm sure that really comes in handy if you're pulling heavy loads.

My $.02... YMMV