From: predatorcrazy
Clarinda , IA
Comment: i own a 2003 predator 500, It has a problem. it run great at low rpm's, But when i get on it at high rpm's it cutsout. I put a new procom cdi box on it, this was before it started cutting out. i have rejetted the carb, but no help.

So the predator is now the prey? Does the engine smoke at all when running? I get the same general questions from time to time and this sounds familiar. I would check the compression if it feels like its bogging on the top end. Fuel delivery and air filter could also be culprits. Now if it stutters on top like a rpm limiter type stutter then I would remove the ProCom box and reinstall the stocker to see if it’s the new CDI.

Try these suggestions and get back to us.

From: john friedl
Nanuet , NY
Comment: Hello, im a 13 year old and i need to find out some things about my custom 2005 blaster and my 2002 honda xr80r first i need to know where i can buy 2-stroke yamalube that isnt a dealer. and if 32:1 or 31:1 is a good mixture ratio. Second i wanted to know what thing will give me more power besides a bbr exhaust and different sprockets thanks
John

First off the Blaster is an oil-injected machine. Meaning that it just needs oil added to a small container that is usually under the seat and it does the rest. But in the event that the oil injection has been removed you will need to add the 2-stroke premix to the gas at a 32:1 ratio. You can get Yamaha’s Yamalube on the net by simply using the search engine here on Off-Road.com. As for the XR80R, it has many dedicated sites for performance parts. Look into lightning the flywheel and maybe adding a performance cam and piston set-up for added ponies.

Good Luck,

Article Title: Project Honda CRF230F - Part 1
From: matt
Peterborough , CANADA
Comment: i have a 2003 crf 230 im wondering if anyone can tell me why my bike stalls after i hit a jump or anything of the sort im not to sure if the fuel is atomizing in the line before it gets to the carb or not i am considering the upgrades if it will help this problem thx

Seems to me the CRF230 may have a partially clogged idle jet. But for starters I would idle that thumper up just a bit and try that first before I tear the carb down for a thorough inspection. Hope this helps. Ride safe and let me know if I can help with anything else.

From: Barry  Metzger
Hudson , PA
Comment: I have a 97 Kawaski mule, 2510 gas UTV. There is an irritating noise coming from the air inlet screen on top of the roll bar. Looking at it, one side of the screen takes in air for the carburator, the driver side lets air in for the transmission that seems to be where all the noise is coming from. I guess the transmission belts and stuff make noise especially going down hill in low gear. When I cover the transmission breather on top of the roll bar it gets alot quieter. Would it be ok to disconnect the rubber hose going from the transmission housing to the roll bar and instead run a 2"line under the sear and install an aircleaner to keep out the debris. I am told the screen is up high so you can run through deep water but we never take the mule through any type of water.I feel by putting this air cleaner on I would muffler alot of the noise from the transmission and by relocating it under the seat it would not be ringing in back of my head all of the time. Any advise would be appreciated. Thank you.

Your Mule is made to cross deeper waters and this is why the vent lines are there. To properly shorten and then filter the air would greatly reduce the noise coming from the CVT. The CVT doesn’t require a filter on the intake but it will make it quieter. Typically these systems generate annoying noises. Just be sure to properly seal any covers or other venting you may need to remove to get this job done. Oh, and in the event you go to deep, the frustration of draining the CVT to get going again may out weight the annoying noises!

Good Luck,

Article Title: 2008 Can-Am DS 450 Review
From: stapletonDS450x
Denison , IA
Comment: I was wondering which pink wire to cut on the 2008 DS 450X

The infamous Pink wire has been discussed here several times. There is a slight performance gain from this procedure but it will void any factory warranty immediately after you trim the wire. Be sure that the performance gains are worth it. Take a look back to the edition of ATV Answerman for more details: http://atv.off-road.com/atv/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=583393

Hope that helps

From: confused Jean
Shawville, CANADA
Comment: I own a 2003 bombardier quest 650 atv. and it recently started to backfire when I'm reving it. I'm not sure how to fix this problen can you help? It runs well while its idling. When I put it in gear or in neutral it bogs and backfires. I changed all gas lines and still sounds like its starving for gas. Could it be an electronic problem or something I'm overlooking. Need help!!! Confused Jean,

Well by the description I figure it can be a few things. How long has it been since the engine had a visit to the doctor for compression check? With a 2003 model there is a possibility that the rings are wore to the point of needing replaced. Low compression, leaking head or cylinder gaskets can cause these type problems. I’d shuttle the monster over to the dealer for a engine check-up. TODAY!

From: Karen
Jackson , AL
Comment: How difficult is it to change out the CV joint on a 2008 Polaris Ranger RAZR?

This answer really depends on your mechanical ability. It can be a pain in the wazoo or it can be kinda simple. Removing the wheel on the side that has the damaged shaft is a start. The wheel hub will need to be removed by taking the nut off the center. This can be a little difficult if the hub is “frozen” to the axle. A few taps with a rubber/deadblow hammer will convince the hub off. Then the RZR has an upper and lower suspension set-up that needs to be unbolted from the hub. There are only two bolts, one in each arm. This will allow you to pull the hub assembly off and expose the axle. Then just hold the axle straight out and with a few tugs you’ll have the old one out. Reverse these directions for install.

Good Luck

Article Title: Honda Pilot Spec Page
From: grsshppr1
Prescott , AZ
Comment: I'm 6'2" 205lbs. and am interested in a honda pilot. Is size going to be an issue with this atv. Your comments are greatly appreciated. Looks like alot of fun.

Sounds like you might have found a great new toy. Being tall has its disadvantages but I think you could make it work. The engine may need a bit of tuning performance wise but it will get the job done. We wish you Great luck with this and I hope it brings you as much fun as they have me while visiting family in florida.

RS – wax on wax off….

From: johnhonda
Covington , GA
Comment: I have an 03 Honda 400ex, and there is a grinding noise coming from the engine when sitting at idle. Do you have any idea what this could be? I am changing the oil and filter this afternoon. Thanks

It sounds like there is more than oil that needs to be changed here. Grinding? WOW. The Honda 400ex is a bullet proof machine but with out any attention in the maintenance department they all fall apart. The four-stroke engine is complex and things like timing chains,cam and valves make diagnosing your noise hard. Take that puppy to the dealer for a evaluation before it explodes and leaves you cryin’. The noise will only get worse!

Good Luck,

http://forums.off-road.com/youth-atv-discussion-area/206991-raptor-50-s-finally-out.html
From: Brent
i just bought a procom cdi for raptor 50,it didnt have any instructions nice huh anyway it has 2 plug ins a 4pin and a6 pin ,i unpluged the 4 pin from the stock cdi and pluged it in with no change and i cant even find a 6 pin on the quad what do i need to do my kid is heart broken from all the build up thanks

I need a bit more information brother. The year of your Raptor fiddy and the maker of the box would be very helpful. If it’s a direct Procom then I would contact the company directly. If it is made for say Yoshimura then you can contact the tech help line. This company makes the same boxes for several major manufacturers so there is bound to be instructions just waiting for you there. Try this:

www.procomengineering.com

Maybe this will get you going.

From: Charlie P
Newark , OH
Comment: I have a 2002 Honda TRX450 FE and the transmission won't go into neutral. I put a wrench on the manual shift shaft and got the neutral light to come on and the engine will start but after it was started I shifted the transmission into 1st gear and reverse but it just loads the engine and won't move. You can't even push it when it's in neutral. Any idea's and help would be appreciated. Thanks, Charlie P

Sounds like you have some serious internal parts that have lost their way. Never force a gearbox into gear as it may result in the loss of dollars from the hip. Have you changed any components lately like the clutch or any internal parts? Sounds like a tear down of great proportions to me. If your not engine internal’s savvy then take it to the dealer for a look-see.

Good Luck and let us know how it turns out!

Article Title: GOKI Electric Starter Kit
From: lr
Grand prairie , TX
Comment: where can i get installation instructions for goki starter assy. for 87 suzuki lt230s?

Hi LR,(Does that stand for Lone Ranger?)

If I were needing instructions for anything I go straight to the maker of the product. Try the website for Goki at:

www.gokimfg.com

These guys are still around and can help you with the instructions you need.

Later Man,

From: nayef_74
Suzuki 2007 atv 90
I have Suzuki ATV 90 (for my son)which, it comes without headlight? And I need to know the Starter system generator output watts as i am planning to install headlight kit? I have used 55W headlight kit  and 5W tail light and the battery got flat twice. A friend of mine have advised me to use 35 W which i do not know if it is compatible with the Streator system generator output capacity.

Please help me

Could you put a 35 watt light in the 55 watt housing? Lower wattage means lower draw on the battery. Im pretty sure they make several wattage bulbs for these housings. That would be a start and probably would cure your issue. The reason makers of these child ATV’s do not install lights is because very rarely would you see a young kid riding these at night. Generally they would be more inexperienced and shouldn’t be out that late anyways. Letting even experience children ride at night is inherently dangerous so consider the risk before the lights go on!

From: Todd Taylor
Subject: 85 Honda TRX125
I have an 85 trx125 yeah I know a beast, but I love it. My problem is that it is slipping out of gear.  I don't know too much about atv's, but I am mechanically inclined. I took apart the sub-tranny and everything seemed to be in good working order.  It will change in and out of every gear, but when it reaches the rpm for the centrifugal clutch to grab, it grabs then lets out and kinda grinds a little?!?  When it does slip out, I roll it a little and it re-engages.  Any help would be greatly appreciated as I am at a loss for what to try next.

It sounds to me that it is time for a clutch overhaul. There are several clutch components inside the actual clutching system on your TRX125 that ride on gear style cogs. These could be worn past use and need replacing. This is probably your grinding noise as well. Look for the Center clutch and weight clutch components as these ride each other like a cowboy and his bull to make things work.

Good luck with the repairs and let us know how it works out.

Article Title: 2005 Youth ATV Racing Regulations
From: Jake
Beldenville , WI
Comment: I would like to race i have a Polaris Predator 500, stock and would like to start racing.

Sounds like your pretty determined to go racing. The things I recommend for beginning racers is great health insurance and plenty of extra money for the season. Getting started into racing is as simple as joining the local organization or AMA and picking a class that fits your ability’s. Obviously you’re not going to jump into a pro level class right off the bat unless you’re just a glutton for punishment and embarrassment.

Be patient and ride with in you’re ability and remember to slow down in order to go faster.

Go get’em tiger!

From: Lisa Bunderson
Subject: Yamaha Rhino
How do I switch my odometer from Kilometers to regular miles.....?

Depending on what year Rhino you have its simple to make this change. Simply hold down the trip/ODO button on your digital dash and turn the key on. This should change the Kilo’s to miles. Give it a try and enjoy. If you haven’t requested your doors from the local dealer yet you need to do so. Owners of Rhinos are able to have doors put on their rides, even if it was purchased used, free of charge.

Good Luck,

Article Title: Suzuki's new LTA50 Quadmaster
From: jeep
Xenia , OH
Comment: WERE CAN I GET A CARBURETOR FOR MY LT50

You will be hard pressed to find new OEM parts right now. My first guess would be to go into EBAY or other Youth ATV Junk yards for parts. With the CPSC holding on all youth parts and atv’s it may be a while before the dealers can help you.

Article Title: Kodiak 400 4x4 and 2WD - 2003 Yamaha ATV Lineup
From: JB
Waterloo , CANADA
Comment: After going through water and turned it off there is no electrical and wont start at all.

There are several fuses that are located under the front of the seat on most Yamaha Kodiak models. This is where I would start. It could just be that they shorted out during the sinking of the quad. There is also a large 30amp fuse located near the rear of the ATV that could be the culprit as well.

Good Luck Man,

From: Carole
Sault, MI
Comment: How to change the oil filter on a 2007 Honda Rancher 420cc, standard transmission. I have no manual. Thanks,

Shame on you for not having a manual to this awesome machine as that’s the only extra you cannot go without! The oil filter is located on the right side of the motor just under the plastic’s and in the front crank case cover. Confused yet? If you had a manual you wouldn’t be… The cover is on the right side as well and has three 8mm bolts holding it in place. This can be tricky but with a manual you could do it blindfolded. I guess what im trying to say is quit being cheap and get the service manual if you are going to try and fix this thing yourself.

From: Chuck
Sanford , FL
Comment: I have a older Suzuki 250 Road Runner, the only way it will stay running is if I hold the start button, as soon as I let go it shuts down. Do you have any idea what the problem might be? Thanks

Well Chuck, Its like this, She aint running if your having to hold the start button. The battery is just turning the motor over. Secondly I have never heard of a Suzuki Road Runner? Is that a Quadrunner by chance? There could be many things from the gas not being on or not getting any to a fouled spark plug that is keeping the engine from starting. Can you get me a positive I.D. on the quad so I might dig deeper?

Get back to me Chuck and turn the start button loose before you run the battery out of its mind!

From: JCfirefighter
Brighton , CO
Comment: I am looking for some atv's for my kids. 1 is 7 yo and the other is 15 yo. I have a chance to buy a couple artic cat 90's. will the 90 be too small for the 15 yo? She is 5'4" tall and weighs about 110lbs! Thank you!

At 15 the 90cc quad would be ok. The things you have to consider is, are my children ready for anything bigger yet? Can they ride with confidence and am I comfortable with them riding yet? Remember this, the ride is fun until we get hurt. Riding safe and keeping our children on atv’s that will allow them to have fun and not get hurt should be our goal. Although sometimes this isn’t the way it happens. How do your kids feel about the 90cc? Is the youngest really ready for that? Use your best judgement as a parent. They can and eventually will get hurt so be ready for that as well.

Now go have fun!

From: ryan
Wewoka , OK
Comment: i have a 99 400ex, high compression kit, stage 1 cam, yoshi full pipe, uni filter, i am in need of a new chain. i was wondering if I go with a 16 tooth front sprocket will it retain approximately the same power feel as it did stock, and still gain some on top end? or will it bog with paddles on dunes? i am a WOT kind of rider if it helps any, thanks in advance

The 16 tooth front sprocket will give you a little different feel from the bottom to the top end of your rpm range. I’d say try this gearing with the largest paddles you use to see if it greatly effect’s the torque of the motor. It going to add power down low and probably pull just a bit off the high end.

Later,

Article Title: 2008 Dealer Expo Top UTV Products
From: Chris Kaul Newbury Park , CA
Comment: Has anyone tested the Progressive 425 series shock? I am really interested and I would like an unbiased opinion. Can you help me or send me to someone who can?

Word on the street is that these 452’s are a great advantage to the side by side market. Many different reviews have been posted on this particular shock and if you simply enter the progressive 425 into our search engine here you’ll find the test results your looking for.

[Editor's Note - Progressive Shocks came out of the gate in 2006/2007 with an awesome new high-end shock for performance or race-use ATVs, but then almost as quickly decided not to manufacture them. Users weren't ready for the amount of adjustability they truly had. They DID keep on with shocks for UTVs and street bikes. From our testing on the race quad, they were awesome. Justin Waters won the 2007 WORCS Pro Am Championship with them! Company was great to work with for R&D, tuning after purchase, etc. We give them our full vote of confidence from that end. Good luck.]

Article Title: Honda 440EX Big Bore Kit - Part 1
From: Matt440ex2002
Sheridan , MI
Comment: I just bought a 440 kit for my 02 honda. Do I need new valves or a cam or is it ok to use the stock? Also if I have the stock carb re-jetted will it do the trick. I want to have all the mods buy cant afford it right now. Do you think i will be fine with new piston, rings, gaskets... you know the basic kit??

Starting basic is where I was many years ago and it worked fine for me. The bigger displacement will surely require more fuel(jetting)and the cam profile should eventually be changed as well as this will only add to the WOT excitement. Im sure you can get by with what you have now but be sure that the carb gets the proper larger jetting and needle clip location so its not starved. That would be catastrophic. You will also need to look into pipes and airbox mods eventually to make the 440EX get-r-done!

Ride safe Bro,

---

As usual, we get many letters and questions on Off-Road.com. If you need help then we are here to help you but when submitting questions I need mucho information. The Year of the ATV, maker of the ATV and typical stuff like, 2WD or 4WD auto tranny or manual. If your not sure then do some research before submitting and then blast away. Keep the questions coming and ill keep digging the brain for answers!

Later,

RS