Need help with a Bearcat 454

[jsimonh]

My father in-law has gotten his hands on a Bearcat 4x4 454 that is not running. It would either fowl the plugs trying to start or start with new plugs and then die out. We're not sure whats wrong with it yet, but first I need to identify what year it is. All the stickers except the 454 bearcat are gone, is there anything that could help me identify this thing where I can order him a manual? Do all the Bearcat 454 parts interchange?

Also, if you have any ideas on the problem and what battery this thing needs that would be cool to.

Thanks.

[lakia_dvx400]

i have 2 bear cat 454's. the only difference is that the 98 model came out with a self priming carb. But all of them have the same engine and parts. If you need parts for it, go to http://www.brownsleisureworld.com/

it is the best place i have found for parts.

[jsimonh]

Thanks for the info, gives me a place to start.

[swampyjunior]

There should also be either a sticker located on the frame inside one of the rear wheel wells OR a serial Number stamped directly onto the frame in one of the rear wheel wells.

Using this number you should be able to call a dealer and they can decode it for you to find out the year. Off the top of my head I don't know which part of it would indicate the year.

Sounds like the machine is either leaning itself out or running rich and flooding out. I would start by checking the caborator, making sure all its parts/passages were clean. Check the needle valve and its seat as they can corrode. I would also check that your choke is functioning properly and not stuck.

Hope that helps

SJ