So I've read about everyone saying to forget replacing crank bearings on the 97 SX 700 and get a 98 bottom end. Is it that hard to replace crank bearings on the 97's or wat? Could someone explain to me in more detail why everyone says go with the 98.
And if I'm doing piston rings should i check these out also while I have it apart? Sled has over 7400 miles on it. And it pulls over really hard when it's cold. I mean like rope barely moves on the first pull. Only thing we've come up with that would cause that is the crank bearings goin bad. Thoughts.
And if I'm doing piston rings should i check these out also while I have it apart? Sled has over 7400 miles on it. And it pulls over really hard when it's cold. I mean like rope barely moves on the first pull. Only thing we've come up with that would cause that is the crank bearings goin bad. Thoughts.
Last edited:
jsalkeld
New member
- Joined
- Dec 21, 2005
- Messages
- 1
I believe the only difference is the recoil side bearing. It has two bearings instead of one thicker bearing used on the 98 and up. They are not hard to change but the newer style is better.
It has something to do with the Mag side bearing not getting enough lubrication. They made a change in 98 to fix it. I currently have a 97 bottom end with a bad crank waiting to be replaced. From the little bit of research I've done, it seemed to be a BIG problem.
Had my mag side bearings go two years ago. What a mess. If you are tearing down the motor check the bearings. The update to the revised 98 bearing is easy to do. Try a search on here and you will find pics and instructions on how to do it.
Yes it will turn over hard when cold.Synthetic oil may help a little but it is a tripple and it will pull hard in the cold and for that reason I went to electric start.
Yes it will turn over hard when cold.Synthetic oil may help a little but it is a tripple and it will pull hard in the cold and for that reason I went to electric start.
stein700sx said:
Do I have to go with 98 bearings or can i still run the 97 style? We've never had a problem with them and we have 2 of them.
As far as the starting when cold, we have to 97 700's and they both run Amsoil. But the one I'm tearing apart now within the last 2 years has pulled over a lot harder than the other.
You can still use the old style beaings. The upgrade is better for reliabilty. The mag side bearings are a problem for the 97 engines.
My 97 has always pulled hard when it is cold but has always started.
My 97 has always pulled hard when it is cold but has always started.
pjb2174
New member
My 97 sx 700 seized its mag side bearing last winter with 3800 miles. When I took the jugs off I could see oil pooled on the bottom of the crank case.