97 Polaris 300 Engine Hatched?

[Big-Al]

The last couple times I have run my Polaris it has started and run fine initially but after a short time it did not want to idle. Yesterday It ran fine as I was doing a bit of snow cleanup and then it started running poor at idle like it was "loading up". I took it out on the road to run it at a higher RPM. After a minuted the engine got a bit louder and then quit running. I tried starting it and it acted like the engine was seized. I towed it back and then tried to start it up and it turned over but seemed like very little compression.

I have several questions.

Any guesses as to what broke?

How rebuildable are these engines? (I am sure that depends on the answer to the first question)

How much for a used or rebuilt engine?

Any value to the machine the way it sits?

Thanks in advance.

[Dave S]

I have several questions.

Any guesses as to what broke?

My first guess is piston meltdown.

How rebuildable are these engines? (I am sure that depends on the answer to the first question)

It will be much cheaper than if you were rebuilding a 4-stroke. You could have it rebuilt for as little as a few hundred $$$. Depending on what's actually going on inside of course.

How much for a used or rebuilt engine?

You might find one about the same price as a rebuild. Disadvantage is you don't know how long it will last and you're back to a rebuild again.

Any value to the machine the way it sits?

If you choose not to rebuild it or keep it, parting it out will yield your best $$$.

Thanks in advance.

[Big-Al]

The response is much appreciated Lep7MM. You have my hopes up at least a bit on getting my old rig back on line. I love that rig for general transportation and plowing.I have a Honda for a workhorse and for ice fishing.

Now can anyone recommend a good Polaris mechanic in the Duluth or Rainge area?