snowsquall

Hey everyone. Brand new to this forum and looking to buy my first sled, mainly for trail riding(30 yrs. old, 6ft, 190lbs). Have always rented in the past. Been looking to buy a used sled and have found an '03 F5, black, with 1400 miles(60hrs) on it, second owner, with studs down the middle, not a sno pro, heated shield port, dual carbides, the rest is stock. Owner said that he had the sled in for 2 recalls(gas tank item=passed, and one other that he can't remember?). The owner purchased it from someone else with 900 miles on it and has only riden it 6 times since then. Comes with cover. Just wanted to get anyones thoughts and I appreciate any honest feedback. Asking $2,600.

Thanks!!

05firecatf7blk

I just bought an 05 f7. I think the other recall was a steering issue. I've heard of a few people having issues with the efi models losing motors. I think it was related to a fuel valve in the tank leaning them out.

kccats

Not a bad sled, but what are you used to running? Only being a 500 and being a big guy, it might be a bit small? Price seems a little high but that depends more on where you are!

IndianRvrShiver

That seems to be a fair price if it is in good shape! The fuel tank should have been replaced on that model (due to recall); they leaked at the outlet above the RH footwell. A clue to tell if it has been replaced is to look for a jetting decal affixed to the front of the tank....replaced tanks prolly will be missing that decal. Someone else mentioned the steering fix. There were several service bulletins as well on that model.....one replaced the power valves & added oil seals, another replaced the slide rails due to cracking near the rear axle. There are a few other minor ones, but those 2 are pretty pricey now that you would have to pay for them (they've since expired). Take the VIN to nearest dealer & have them check the recall/svc bulletin history on the sled.
That 500cc puts out 105 HP & has plenty of power for trail riding....my son & I are both pretty beefy & we love our F5!

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2003 AC F5 (Jr's Dec 07 SOTM & 2008 SOTY)
2003 AC F7 EFI SP (April 06 SOTM)
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snowsquall

Thanks for the info. Yes, I think 500cc will be fine for me. As long as it can go 75-85mph, that is plenty fast for me. I live in N IL and ride locally and typically go up north for a few trips each year. It sounds like the most important issue I need to make sure of is, were the recalls completed. So, as long as I get the VIN and bring it into my local dealer, they can run a check? I have seen various pictures and it looks like it is in great shape. Any other feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!

kccats

So were in N. Il are you?

snowsquall

Grayslake.