1986 350x value

[tx54willys]

What are problems to look for when buying a 1986 350x? Tomorrow I am looking at one for sale.

Seller claims excellent shape, runs great, no cracks in plactic.

Asking price is $1500. Is this a good price? Where do I look for frame cracks?

Thanks,

Will

[350x'inNY]

Nothing off the top of the head particular to look for on a 86 350X. If it's in great shape with nice plastic, the $1500 doesn't sound too bad.

Look at the engine case in front of the front sprocket. Some times these get broken from broken chains.... double cased, so not a deal breaker. Check the sprokets and chain while you are snooping around there.

Frames usually crack up where the grab bar mounts on under the seat. Sometimes by where the exhaust mounts on by the rear master cylinder/resevoir.

Check wheel, swing arm, and rear axle bearings. Check the oil / air filter for signs of abuse or neglect. Gas tank internal for any rust.

Any other things guys?
Bruce

[trikerider2oo7]

to tell how much it has been riden look at the case to see if the paint is wore off. and look at the plastics and for a twisted frame to see if has been rolled or wrecked.

[hrc200x]

The frames also crack above the sprocket side foot peg where the motor mount is welded to the vertical frame, in the general area of the choke/carb. I think some '86's had a factory gusset in this area to help the problem, almost every '85 I've seen had a crack there.

Check the fork seals, if you see any fluid running out of the forks the seals are probably bad.

350's are also known for head problems. So if you hear any ticking or knocking I'd be suspicious. It could be somthing simple like rockers need adjusting, or it could be a cam chain slapping or somthing worse.

[tx54willys]

Thanks for the responses.

Well I bought it for $1,300. I think of it as cheap fun.

It is mostly all original with a pipe and K&N filter. It has red rear plastic, i guess from a 1985 model.

I could not find any frame problems, and it runs great. I can not believe how LOUD and FAST it is.

I will have several questions for the board. I will try to post pictures.

[wheelieking71]

i just bought a new (to me) 350x also. mine has the previously mentioned frame crack right above the swingarm pivot gusset on the left side of the frame. it almost wraps all the way around the tube.

[350x'inNY]

Huh.... guess I better go check mine out in that area! Both of my 'X''s are low production numbers for the year. The 86 was in the first 2000 made, so it probably doesn't have the gosset. The 85 was in ther first 3000.

Bruce

[350XXX]

mine was welded above the left peg also