Bought '09 Dragon 800 - What to do?

[Mindstyle]

I bought an extremely clean '09 Dragon 800 yesterday with about 1400 miles and only a 100 miles or so on new top end. Everything looks to be in great condition and very clean. Cold started on first pull. I didn't do a compression test but I've work on enough motorcycles to know that a one-pull cold start is a really good sign.

I did some research prior to buying but apparently not enough. Thought if I found one with a new top end that would be ok. But after spending a few more hours last night reading about the frequent issues that plague these models I am starting to second guess my purchase. Did I make a mistake?

I don't know much about the new top-end other than it was done in 2/2013 and was about a $2500 job. So here goes my questions....

1. I am better off just turning around and re-selling this machine?
2. What can I look for to know whether this is an 'updated' top-end?
3. If I keep the sled, what mods should I do to prevent the motor blowing up on me?

I bought it mostly for backcountry skiing access but I'm into dirtbikes, streetbikes, and offroad racing so I know this will be something I get hooked on. I'm otherwise new to snowmobiling and don't want this to end up being a quick dabble in the sport.

Thanks

 

[jim9006]

IMO if you want a reliable Dragon (with cost in mind) do the following:
#1 Fix Kit – installed correctly! (Do the research on this)
#2 While your installing the fix kit check the oil pump settings and set it to where it goes just a bit past the marks at WFO.
#3 Get a new fuel filter.
#4 Run non-ethanol premium gas.
#5 Install a computer case fan on the cover above the VR/ECU blowing down. (Power for it can be found in the harness next to the shock tower).
#6 Carry a spare VR in your pack.

Other things:
Fuel controller. Power commander 5 is what most are using.
Always let the sled warm up.

Just so you know I run all the above and don’t have problems. Well… so far…

 

[Mindstyle]

I stopped by the local stealership and talked to the head mechanic for awhile. He flat out told me he wouldn't own one of these. He also said he doesn't think much of the fix-it kits or the power commander as they see just a many problems with those as they do stock machines. Hmmm.

He did recommend that I add oil to the gas, make sure the machine is always properly warmed up even if I stop for 10 mins, and to be careful running at mid-throttle for any amount of time.

 

[RDS88]

If you have the top-end off, check cylinder skirts to make sure they're not cracked. The fix-kit is useless if the cyliner skirts weren't inspected properly when the kit was installed.

They're good machines once all the bugs are worked out.

 

[ecyr123]

I bought an 09 with a blown motor I had it sent off to Indy dan and had his long rod fix kit put on it and I haven't had any problems. It's pretty spendy but he warrantys it unlimited miles for 3 years. The power commander is a good upgrade because it cleans up the lean spots and the slight big these sleds had. Just make sure you are running enough oil through the sled.

 

[gotsnow]

I bought an extremely clean '09 Dragon 800 yesterday with about 1400 miles and only a 100 miles or so on new top end. Everything looks to be in great condition and very clean. Cold started on first pull. I didn't do a compression test but I've work on enough motorcycles to know that a one-pull cold start is a really good sign.

I did some research prior to buying but apparently not enough. Thought if I found one with a new top end that would be ok. But after spending a few more hours last night reading about the frequent issues that plague these models I am starting to second guess my purchase. Did I make a mistake?

I don't know much about the new top-end other than it was done in 2/2013 and was about a $2500 job. So here goes my questions....

1. I am better off just turning around and re-selling this machine?
2. What can I look for to know whether this is an 'updated' top-end?
3. If I keep the sled, what mods should I do to prevent the motor blowing up on me?

I bought it mostly for backcountry skiing access but I'm into dirtbikes, streetbikes, and offroad racing so I know this will be something I get hooked on. I'm otherwise new to snowmobiling and don't want this to end up being a quick dabble in the sport.

Thanks

. >>>>>. did you keep the sled? If so did you change anything?

 

[sledsuperman]

Do your homework on everything

I got a 2010 Dragon 16 months ago and planned on redoing the top end from the day I got it. It turned out there were more issues with it than I anticipated. Make sure you do your homework on every part of the engine. Also make sure the extras you put on will all work together. PCV is a must and you will also need to get some help with getting the right fuel map built. If you put a pipe and can on it pay close attention to how these affect the engine. Also make sure it is clutched right. Get to know a smart and experienced sled mechanic that can work the bugs out. These can be a good engine with a fix kit and the right fuel map. Good luck!!

 

[Mindstyle]

. >>>>>. did you keep the sled? If so did you change anything?

I kept the sled and love it. Haven't changed anything on it yet but I am careful about adding a little oil in with the gas, making sure it's properly warmed before hammering, and staying out of the mid-range for any period of time. I even bought a D7 to compliment it.

 

[Joemt]

You might consider talking to Indy Dan, It's far less expensive to have motor work done to a working motor than a blown motor. Give him a call "google indy specialties. Welch Mn.