mydogchuck

Hi all,

Brand newbie here with a question about this sled. I'm looking at an 06 RMK 700 with 1000 mi on it. Got factory installed engine at 500 mi. I've done research and it sounds like it's the same block as the 900, they only made it two years and it's a long stroke. Red flags.

My question is, I've seen comments that it needs "updates." When Polaris installed the new engine, did that take care of it? What did they do differently? I've read about removing the radiator, etc. Is that a mandatory fix?

Lastly, I'm mainly a skier who won't be highmarking, but wants something that will last me a good while. It's a screaming deal, but should I look for something other than this year? (I'm steering away from 8's/9's for reliability's sake)

Thanks for any help!

rgoers

Wait for BC_Dan to chime in... he knows his Polaris's.

__________________
2004 Polaris Trail RMK 136
1997 Ski Doo Summit 500
2000 Arctic Cat ZL550 ESR (in NY)
2000 Arctic Cat 440 Panther (sold)
1980 Arctic Cat Jag 3000 F/C (in NY)

"If it ain't broke, take it apart and find out why!"

joshkidner

Yup! I feel like with only 1k miles it should last a while regardless, but on the other hand, maybe not long term. Like said, BC_Dan could tell ya

__________________
1987 chasis with 1985 597cc under the hood. Xtra-10, fox shocks, and a whole lotta speed!

BC_Dan

They only made that version of the big block 700 in 2006. The cc's is actually 755 so it's pretty potent for a sled labeled as a 700. The 700 shares the block with the horrible performing 900 but has less issues. A lot of the recalls in the 900 were because of broken motor mounts and engines that were blowing belts every ride. Some of that can be fixed by getting the clutch serviced, better motor mounts, and using the 1115 belt and NOT the 080.

Smoking deals can be had on the 700, I just had a buddy I ride with buy one. I also know of one other that the rider has owned it since new and has never had any issues. The 700 shares the reputation of it's big brother, but not near as many failed as in the 900.

The problem with the front radiator is that too much coolant comes from the engine to the front and then right back to the engine. When you aren't moving or when the radiator area gets clogged with snow and no air moves past the radiator, temps get really hot pretty fast. Deleting the radiator forces all the coolant to the rear heat exchangers. Most riders that have done the delete find their sleds run cooler than they did previously.

When you delete the radiator, it also makes room for a nice after-market bumper that can hook to something substantial so you don't get stuck and pull the factory plastic junk off. Polaris, what were you thinking??!

Welcome to the forum!

__________________
2007 Dragon RMK 700 155", 2008 RMK 600 155", 2006 RMK 600 144", 95 Prowler 550 2-up, 1990 Indy 650, Really OLD AC Cheetah

http://www.avalanche.org/accidents.php

mydogchuck

Thanks, Dan- I have read lots of your posts and appreciate your help here.

I have backed off of the 700 and have found a 2008 RMK 600 with 1500 "soft" wife miles, all stock in mint condition. Looks like a great weight/power ratio, reliable engine and just what I need to get me out there. Going to test ride on Wed.

BC_Dan

You won't be disappointed in that 600. The pic in my avatar is me on my 2008 600, it's a great sled. I was coming off an Edge 800 when I got that sled and other than the awesome torque of the 800 that wrenches your arms back, I don't miss a thing. The 600 HO engine in the IQ chassis is a hoot!

If it's stock, you will want to change the front bumper. THe OEM one is for decoration only. Get stuck and lift by the bumper and you will be holding it in your hand. Honest.

__________________
2007 Dragon RMK 700 155", 2008 RMK 600 155", 2006 RMK 600 144", 95 Prowler 550 2-up, 1990 Indy 650, Really OLD AC Cheetah

http://www.avalanche.org/accidents.php

mydogchuck

Thanks Dan! What do you think is a good price range for this sled? Got reverse, air shocks, 2 1/4" paddle, 155" track, one owner immaculate.

And got a recommendation for the bumper?

BC_Dan

Prices vary by region and right now, any nice sled is bringing a premium where I'm at. Check Kelley Blue book or the NADA guides, they will give you a lot better idea of the value in your area.

I bought Skinz bumpers for all three of my IQ sleds, you can hang 'em by the bumper. They are stout. Skinz Protective Gear

__________________
2007 Dragon RMK 700 155", 2008 RMK 600 155", 2006 RMK 600 144", 95 Prowler 550 2-up, 1990 Indy 650, Really OLD AC Cheetah

http://www.avalanche.org/accidents.php

mydogchuck

yep-he's asking $4,300. Right at KBB.

rgoers

Not bad, even going by Utah prices...

__________________
2004 Polaris Trail RMK 136
1997 Ski Doo Summit 500
2000 Arctic Cat ZL550 ESR (in NY)
2000 Arctic Cat 440 Panther (sold)
1980 Arctic Cat Jag 3000 F/C (in NY)

"If it ain't broke, take it apart and find out why!"

white lightning

Like BC DAN stated .. Ive been riding my 800 triple in about 10yrs. Late last winter, I picked up a really nice, sweet deal '06 Fusion 600HO for 2,800 with less than 850miles (no lie) I was really afraid I wasnt gonna like the power of the 600. Over the summer, I did some minor work (per WILLIE from AMSNOW) on my sled. I finally got some seat time on it 2weeks ago and let me tell ya .. when the 600HO is dialed in .. that thing is a beast. WL