Common parts on ATV's througout HP range

[JJHACK]

When I was looking over the Yamaha ATV's recently it seemed to me that from about the 350 size up to maybe the 660 size many of the same parts are used. The transimission covers looked like they could be swapped between the 350-400-450's, the drive lines and U joints are identical, the differentials are identical, the tires and wheels are as well. Rear sealed brakes inside the Diff,........ I would assume also the same.

After looking that over and really trying to see where some differences were at between them( 350-400-450) I came to the conclusion that the 350 design must be way the heck over built for it's HP. I mean if you can uses these same identical drive line components all the way up to 450, and maybe bigger? they that should make the 350 drive line just about bullet proof!

Anyone else noticed this? or have any thoughts?

[R.W.Dale]

This is nothing new Auto mfg have done this for years. Standardization of parts just saves money look for more of this in the future. I predict that one day a Ford Dodge and Chevy will all use the same alternators and transmissions. ATV manufactures have been watching this closely.

they that should make the 350 drive line just about bullet proof!

 Not really as there's a lot more to it than just the amount of HP these units have put through them. For example water in the differential due to a faulty seal will trash the unit just as fast with a 250cc engine as with a 700

[JJHACK]

Krochus, you kinda missed the point. I don't think anyone would argue that mistreartment of the machine or "water" inside the diffs or transmission would be a problem.

The point is that if the drive train can handle the torque of a 700cc engine and it's still the same one used on a 350, then it's way over built for that 350cc engine.  The smaller 350 would only be able to apply1/2 the torque to the drive train that the 700 could. Is that a better explanation? 

[R.W.Dale]

The point is that if the drive train can handle the torque of a 700cc engine and it's still the same one used on a 350, then it's way over built for that 350cc engine.  The smaller 350 would only be able to apply1/2 the torque to the drive train that the 700 could. Is that a better explanation?

 I understand what you mean. I'm just saying that there are lots of other things that could cause issues with drivetrain parts regardless of how much torque is put through them.  Just cause the part is overbuilt from a torque standpoint does not necessarily mean it's a good part that will never need attention.

 If you took using  overbuilt components to the extreme you could end up with a situation where you're over stressing other componets by using them, clutches come to mind when using oversized axles and diffs

[30-30man]

The 350 bruin uses the same frame as some of the larger Yamaha atvs. Big bear, Grizzly or Kodiak I can't remember...... They even advertised this when I bought mine last year.