2003 WR450F Purchase advice

[flyingtexan1]

Found an 03 after waiting patiently for one to show up locally for sale. I intend on doing a SM conversion and using it 90% street and maybe 10% trail. Guy wants $1900. The ad stated that the water pump seals had just been replaced. So I spoke to him several days ago and set up a showing today. When I texted him today he replied the bike was back at the shop that did the water pump seals because they were leaking.

 

What causes these seals to leak? Over heating? Age?

 

What are some other common issues I should look at when inspecting this one?

 

I'm mechanical but have limited experience with Yamaha Dirt bikes.

 

Anyone have a good pre-buy checklist that I could follow?

 

Very much appreciated in advance.

Edited March 10, 2016 by flyingtexan1

[knuckleduster271]

The impellar shaft and or bearing probably needs replaced.

The 03's had woodruff key and starter clutch issues so make sure these have been adressed

[flyingtexan1]

knuckleduster271, on 10 Mar 2016 - 10:44 PM, said:

The impellar shaft and or bearing probably needs replaced.

The 03's had woodruff key and starter clutch issues so make sure these have been adressed

Thanks, impeller shaft, I assume you are referring to the water pump seal replacement issue?

[knuckleduster271]

The impellar shaft gets grooved where the seals ride and causes them to leak. Its a good idea to do the bearing if the inner seal was letting water past.

[FORMA MOTO]

Look at the top of this forum for the 'stickie's FAQ and read about the 2003 starter and keyway issues.

If they have not been addressed yet, they will need to be.