Building 400ex from scratch

[Nillious]

Hello, Im new here but I have been riding since 85. I would like to build a 400ex for XC.

I am looking at building from scratch because I will want to change about every dam part on it like a arms, wheels, shocks, carb, + big bore kit and some porting.

What are some things to look for when doing this? Anybody have any tips? Special little parts ill need?

The biggest question I have is are all years of chassis parts the same? Ill need to know this when buying a frame

I figure real quick I could have a race ready machine for around 5k

the only thing that has changed on them over the years is the plastics and the trannies. everything from one year will work for any years...

[Nillious]

So engine and frame are the same even on the 04 up frames? In other words, a 05 up engine will go in a pre 05 frame?

yes. i am about 98% sure it will...

[fastredrider44]

Yes it will.

[hondaking52]

i think the 08 frames are a little diff because of the different plastic mounts, but other then tht i'm pretty sure there all the same, engine. frames, etc

[krt400ex]

any yr engine will go in any yr frame. the same goes for swingarms, axles, a arms, spindles, rims, subframes, or anything else you can think of except the plastics.

[Nillious]

I picked up an 02 frame and wiring harness on ebay last night. I will be getting the front and rear suspension next to get it to a rolling chassis.

Are the stock swingarms sufficiant or are they weak? It looks like I can pick up a used one for around 100 bucks. I just dont want to buy one if its going to crack. I weigh about 200lbs

what do you plan on doing with this machine? for normal trail riding, they are good enough, for hard racing, it might be better to go aftermarket

[Nillious]

It will be used for XC type riding. And generally just ripping around with my buddies

[450Rchaser]

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