What to look for in buying a 78 Max IV

[Featherman]

Hi guys, I'm in the market for an AATV and have to keep my standards a little low due to budget restrictions. I've looked at machines in the 1999-2003 range for anyhwere from 4k-5500.00. A little too rich at this point and time.

I found an older Max IV that has a 46HP 2 stroke engine that appears to have very low miles on it. What else do I look for to verify "normal use" vs "rough use".

They want 3k for this machine, is that reasonable for a 2 stroke? Other than the smell of the 2 stroke what other cons are there? I think the machine is a 78

The machine will be used mainly for hunting purposes. I'm not a recreational rider (yet) but who knows.

Look forward to your knowledgeable responses.

[racerone3]

i wouldn't recommend the 2 stroke for a hunter... noise and smoke are 2 things that will drive your prey away. as for what to look for in a machine, here is a buyers guide that should be some help. http://www.6x6world.com/forums/conte...r-s-guide.html

[Featherman]

Thanks for the link..............should have clarified. It will be for retrieving game, instead of hauling it out on my back. Don't plan on hunting out of the machine.

[TalSet]

even if you're just going to use it to haul your game home, i'm SURE the other hunters in ear-shot would not be too pleased hearing a 2-stroke machine in the deer woods. my max Iv with a 4 stroke vanguard is so quiet that i have gotten within 20 yrds. before spooking game.

[Featherman]

We don't have the issue of other hunters to worry about!! The woods are pretty empty up here.

Just debating on whether I should pull the trigger on this machine or wait and save up an extra grand or two for a 4 stroke. Most of the 4 strokes for sale are the 16-18 horse power range and are running in the 4500-5500 range.

If the only issue is a little noise, I think our woods can handle that. Just wanted to know what others thought that are experienced with these units.

I appreciate all of the input so far.

[Mike]

Its not just the noise but also the difference between the high revving two stroke with high HP at high RPM and a lower HP but torquey 4 stroke motor with gobs or torque at lower RPM. If you were going to be zipping down trails I would go with the two stroke but you want something that you dont have to worry about fouling out plugs when idling down trails and loading up game, etc.

On top of that, to me, $3000 is high for that model. Save your money a while and look for deals on Craigslist. Every month I see a Max IV in the upper $3000 range with a decent size four stroke. Two weeks ago there was one for $1500 with absolutely nothing wrong with it, roll cage, 18HP motor, windshield, etc. Of course it sold the same day it was listed but if you check online daily you will come across deals like that too

Take everyones advice and wait, you will be much happier in the end.

[Featherman]

Thanks Mike...............I was torn between buying now and ending up with something that didn't suit my needs and/or waiting for a deal on a good 4 stroke. I guess I'll keep saving.

Thanks all......................forums like this are beneficial for the new guys on the block.

[duckhunt81]

Featherman where are you located? I'll bet if you will extend your search, you will find a good 4-stroke machine for $3,000. Search Craigslist and keep an eye here, something will pop up for sure.

[Featherman]

Hey Duckhunt81...........I'm in Winnipeg, Manitoba and I've expanded my search quite a bit, within a two days drive from my location. I've had good responses but folks selling their machines are sticking pretty close to their asking prices. Don't blame some of them because their machines look pretty clean.

Unfortunatley I have to factor in the cost of picking up in my current budget so a machine at 4k is pushing my limits. Thats why I was looking at the 2 stroke for 3k but its also a 78 and guys asking the 4k range are selling machines in the 2002-04 range.

Checking CL daily..................