Helumt, I recall you strongly recommending foot shift models can you give me your insight/experience?

Thanks,

Mark

I prefer the foot shift models because there's less parts to mess up. Also, I just prefer shifting with my foot instead of my thumb. A lot of the Rancher 400ATs had the same problem that you described above and also if the Hondamatic transmission goes out, it's expensive to replace. I don't have any experience with the 420 AT, so all I know about them is what I've read on the forums. And in case you don't know, the 420AT has a completely different transmission than the 400AT has.

I'm not saying the auto/ES models aren't any good. I'm just saying that they have more parts and that means more things that can go wrong. You may not have any problems with an auto/ES, but then there's always that chance. I guess it depends on whether you're willing to take that chance. A lot of people have good experiences with them.

If you prefer the auto/ES models, I wouldn't really recommend that you not buy one, but just know there's a possibility that you could have more problems compared to the foot shift models.

 

I agree with what Helmut stated above. The foot shifts are just basic and have less problems. I bought an 04 Rancher es and it hasn't had a single problem yet. Sometimes the es models can be really good or really problamatic. I like the es for trail riding and mudding. The automatic on the Rancher plain out stinks. It shifts at the wrong time. This is just from riding on a friends for 10 minutes. If you want the best automatic 400cc class on the market then I would consider looking at a Grizzly 450.

 

Thanks for the info about manual versus auto and ES.

What can you tell me about power difference between '06 400 and modern 420? The 400 does not have the power for peanutbutter mud...

 

The 420 is a lot more torquey and has a top speed of about 56. In other words it has a lot more power.

 

Quite a bit more low end. There are some guys who have done some crazy things to 420s for mudding.

 

Lol yall just wait till income taxes comes in

 

My friend has an 10" custom lift with 32" backs lol..

 

X3, on the 420 having more power.

 

Nah no lift. 28" terms my friend, maybe a pipe and filter as well

 

The 420 rancher is a fantastic machine. I have an '11 4x4 with power steering and manual shift. Its been very reliable with 720 miles and no problems other than a rat caused problem. I dont ride hard or abuse mine though. I ride alot of sand and it does great and looking forward to the snow this year. My opinion would be go with the foot shift fot long term reliabilty and 4wd if you need it or want it.

 

If you are wanting to do any hardcore mudding or tough riding on your atv, go with the manual foot shift model. They are much more reliable and like everyone else said they don't have as many things on them to go wrong.